Adding charcoal ash into compost can help balance out the pH levels in the compost and help
growth.
Many gardeners add charcoal ash to their compost to help balance out the total pH level of the compost when it
is too acidic. Charcoal ash is especially good at doing this because it is an alkaline. Therefore, if your soil has
high levels of oak leaves or citrus particles, it is highly advisable you add some charcoal ash to balance out the
pH. This will help the growth of anything you decide to plant in there.
How To Add Charcoal Ash To Compost
The accepted ratio of charcoal to compost is 1 cup full of charcoal ash to every 1 square foot of
compost. It doesn't have to be exact, just use rough estimates.
Using a spade of pitch fork, distribute the charcoal ash evenly throughout so it isn't concentrated in
just one area.
Add other composting materials, such as leaves, branches or bark. Add these gradually over a few weeks
until you have a respectable pile gathered.
Check the temperature of your compost pile and turn it each week using your shovel to create aeration.
The temperatures should be at around 130 degrees.
Leave the pile for a few months which will give the charcoal ash a chance to biodegrade with the
compost. Then it is ready for use!
