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Fly Ash As a Soil Conditioner

Fly ash is a byproduct of the coal industry. It is created when coal is burned to produce electricity; the burnt remnants of coal turn to ash. Fly ash is sometimes called coal ash.
  1. Chemical Makeup

    • 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 Use

    • 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.

    Fly Ash Dangers

    • 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.