Fly ash is composed primarily of silica, which absorbs moisture. The material is lightweight, powdery and usually a light beige or brown color. The powdery consistency of this product makes it easy to spread over soil.
Livestock raised on soil that is muddy and poorly drained grow poorly compared to livestock raised in higher-quality soil. Adding fly ash to livestock pen soil in amounts of approximately 1 ton for a 30- by 10-foot enclosure promotes good soil drainage and more robust livestock development, according to Dr. Vern Anderson and Debra Pflughoeft-Hassett of North Dakota State University.
According to Jim Lambeth of the Solid Fuel Association, fly ash should not be used as a soil amendment for gardening. Fly ash can contain trace amounts of toxic metals, though unadulterated wood ash is usable. Fly ash can cause irritation to the eyes and skin with excessive exposure.