Barbecue Ashes

Am I right in thinking that the ash from a barbecue is rich in potash or something else that could be used in the garden? If so what is the best way to utilise this left over ash. I don't suppose I could put it straight onto the compost heap could I? :confused:

 

We now cheat and have a gas barbecue, but I used to put mine in the compost bin or over parts of the garden that wouldnt look unsightly with it there. I'm a bit like you, cant remember who told me, just something I always thought was right. Don't think a chinese whisper could travel that far, so hopefully there is some truth in it, I'm sure one of the wise ones on here will advise us.

 

I usually scatter ours around the fruit trees. Ash from green wood is high in potash, but I've got my doubts about the potash content of ash from charcoal. It won't do your soil structure any harm wherever you put it and so long as it isn't in a big thick layer, chucking it on the compost heap is ok.

If I have a bonfire of prunings or leaves in the autumn or winter I bag the cold ashes and scatter them round the fruit trees in March.Any big lumps of charcoal I keep to float in the water butt to keep the water sweet and/or to place in the bottom of the pots in which I grow tomatoes