Can I compost the ashes from BBQs? I use charcoal briquettes and they mostly burn down to just fine ash. Some larger lumps are left. Occasionally a whole briquette survives.

Will the ashes break down in a compost heap? Is the resulting compost safe and beneficial for gardening, or harmful to plants?

Christina, August 2007

the ashes from charcoal will be fine in your compost heap. did the previous answer think you were cremating your sausages and putting them in the compost?

Simon, September 2007

Hi Christina,
It is not really a good idea to put bbq ashes in the compost, or any other meat (or former meat). It attracts varmints like raccoons and rats.
Its also of little benefit. Now regular wood ash is ok in small amounts, but is best sprinkled lightly around your plants directly. It acts as a physical barrier to some soft bodied bugs.

jahozer, August 2007