Ash

This section covers both ash the wood — a tough, pale hardwood — and wood ash, the useful residue from your fire. Below you’ll find species guides plus practical uses for wood ash.

Ash wood (the species): is ash a hardwood, ash vs white oak, ash vs beech, and spotting a dying ash tree.

Wood ash (the residue): where to buy wood ash, make lye from wood ash, vegetables that like wood ash, and 30 uses for wood ash.

For how ash compares with other species, see our types of wood guide.

Is ash a hardwood? Yes — ash is a strong, shock-resistant hardwood used for tool handles, furniture, and flooring.

What is wood ash good for? Wood ash can enrich garden soil, raise pH, make lye for soap, and even help with cleaning — in moderation.