Neutralizing Wood Ash For Use In The Garden

Question

I know that wood ash contains a lot of minerals that are good for gardening, but it can raise the pH. Can ash be neutralized by vinegar?

Answer 1

I did some checking and didn't find a reputable source that suggested using vinegar to neutralize wood ash. In large amounts, it can actually increase the pH, but it would be temporary. More practical is to use the wood ash sparingly and do not use it on acid loving plants like azalea, rhododendrons, and pines. It is also advised to compost it. Here is more:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/using-wood-ashes.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/use-vinegar-in-gardens.htm

https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/changing-the-ph-of-your-soil/