"'Mike'" wrote in message
...



"Chris Hogg" wrote in message
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On Fri, 2 Oct 2009 11:54:10 +0100, "'Mike'"
wrote:

Would bonfire ash be an accelerator on a compost heap?

For the last two weeks I have been clearing and burning Bulrushes and
consequently have a goodly pile of ash. The compost heap has also been
growing and will grow even more when I get in and clear the stream.

I propose to mix ash with greenstuffs and build the compost heap even
bigger.

Right or wrong?

Bonfire ash contains lime and potash amongst other things, which will
be helpful when you come to re-use the compost, but very little
nitrogen AFAIK. Again AFAIK, most accelerators, whether bought or,
er....'home made', are rich in nitrogen to encourage the bacteria to
break down the green stuff on the heap.

--

Chris


Thanks for the tips and advice.

Pictures of the remains of the Bulrushes and the compost heaps
http://www.myalbum.com/Album-6UYKKIM...%20-Other.html and a
rather dried up pond!!!

No rain since forgotten when ;-)

a suggestion, store the ash up in a bucket until your spring and use it
then. It is correct that the nutrients in ash will leach very quickly. If
you want to use them to benefit plants, apply in a drier season and gently
wanter in to the earth. Ash can be used in the place of lime, I have found
it a good additive to dust on moss in my lawn. The ph does vary so it is an
inexact science however it does deal to moss.

rob