The use of ash for onions It is quite widespread in agriculture. It is not a new trend, but a very old and completely natural practice that seeks to enrich the soil and, in addition, provides extra protection against pests that can attack these plants.
However, to obtain good results, it is important to know how to use ashes, because improper use can have adverse effects.
What do ashes contribute to the soil?
El use of ashes in plant cultivation It is common in agriculture and classical gardening, because this substance is rich in nutrients:
- Potassium (K). Ashes are rich in potassium, which is an essential nutrient for plant growth and development. It helps plants to photosynthesize and improves their resistance to disease. In the case of onions, potassium helps to keep the bulb strong.
- Phosphorus (P). Phosphorus is also present in ashes, and is of great help in promoting root development and energy production in plants.
- Calcium (Ca). Ash is a great source of calcium and improves soil structure, neutralizing its acidity to a certain extent and raising the pH. This is interesting for onions, which grow best in slightly acidic to neutral soils.
- Magnesium (Mg). Ashes contain magnesium and other micronutrients such as iron or magnesium, which also contribute to plant growth.
Is ash good for onions?
In view of the above, we have to conclude that yes, ashes are good for onion crops. The benefits that can be highlighted are these:
Improves bulb formation
Potassium is essential for bulbs grow strong and healthyIf you put ashes on the soil in which you have planted onions, you are ensuring that they will be able to access the dose of this nutrient that they need.
Neutralizes acidic soils
The perfect soil for growing onions is one that has a pH between 6.0 and 7.0If your soil is too acidic, adding ash increases its alkalinity level and makes it more suitable for growing this vegetable.
Reduce pests and diseases
Calcium and other micronutrients that are present in the ashes help strengthen the plants, making them more resistant against diseases and insect attacks. This is important to keep in mind, because bulb crops are particularly sensitive to the action of pests.
It improves soil structure
Ashes, especially wood ashes, improve soil texture and allow for a better ventilation and better drainage. This is very useful for onions, as they need well-drained and loose soils so that the bulbs can expand.
How to apply ash to onions?
To achieve a good result, you must apply it carefully. Follow these steps:
Quantity
Use ashes in small quantities. Adding one is usually more than enough.s 70 or 100 grams of ash per square meter of land.
Application time
The ideal is to add the ashes to the substrate before planting the onions, while you prepare the soil. Because this way the nutrients are evenly distributed throughout the soil.
Incorporation into the soil
Try to mix the ashes with the top layer of soil, about 15 or 20 centimeters deep, so that the nutrients reach the roots of the onions.
Use of other fertilizers
If you have applied ashes, do not add other nitrogenous fertilizers such as urea or manure to your onion crops, because this increases the release of ammonia and can damage the plants.
After adding ash to the substrate before planting the onions, wait a few weeks before applying a fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen.
Precautions when using ash for onions
Although ashes are very beneficial for crops, you should use them with caution to avoid certain adverse effects:
- Excess alkalinity. If you add more ash to the soil than recommended, you will raise the soil pH too much, and this can negatively affect the growth of onions, which develop best in neutral or slightly acidic soils.
- Toxic waste. Not all ashes are suitable for agricultural use. If they come from treated, painted or chemically impregnated wood, they may contain toxic substances that contaminate the soil and affect plants. If you are going to use ashes, make sure that they come from natural, untreated wood.
- Accumulation of salts. Applying excessive ash causes a build-up of mineral salts in the soil, which prevents plants from absorbing water and nutrients.
Other organic alternatives and home tricks for growing onions
Here are some other options that will help you grow onions and other vegetables:
- Eggshells. If you crush the eggshells and mix them with the soil before planting, you will be adding an extra dose of calcium to the soil, which will strengthen the bulb.
- Garlic and chili. To keep pests at bay, soak several cloves of garlic or chillies in water and then spray the onions with the mixture. Garlic has fungicidal properties (it prevents fungi from developing) and is very effective at preventing aphids and thrips, and the same goes for chillies.
- Crop association. Planting onions alongside carrots, lettuce and spinach allows the plants to benefit from the properties of the others to improve their growth. For example, carrots repel onion flies, while lettuce and spinach help maintain moisture in the soil.
- Beer traps. Place low containers with a little beer near the onions and you will be able to trap the slugs, who will come to the sweet smell of the beer and will not be able to leave the container.
- Seaweed flour. It provides your crops with magnesium, zinc and calcium.
Ash for onions is a natural and effective way to improve soil fertility, provide nutrients and control pH. But you have already seen that it is important to use it in moderation. Can you tell us about your experience with this natural fertilizer?