Question
An aquaintence of mine has begun using ordinary ash, which he gets out of his wood burning stove, as a fertilizer. He is using it on both on his grass and on his garden. Have you ever heard of such an application as this? Is it credible? Would there be somewhere I could look for documentation of its value (or lack thereof)? Thank you.

Answer
it is credible. NPK are the 3 main elements in a good fertilizer. wood ashes provide a good source of potasium (the K in NPK), calcium, and numerous other trace elements. it will raise the soil pH making it less acidic. similar to liming w/turf lime. this is good for lawns that have been fertilized on a regular basis w/high nitrogen fertilizers (these increase soil pH too much). do not use it on plants that like acidic soils (most evergreens, dogwood trees, etc.). it is good for non-acid loving plants(turf grasses, most deciduos trees & shrubs, etc.). like all fertilizers if it is used too much it will effect your soil pH negatively. 1-2 applications per year should be sufficient in the right amount. it should be broadcast evenly over areas to prevent it from burning the turf or plant material.
type in www.oregonstateuniversity.edu and find their agricultural extension service. most other state university sites (i'm in NJ-Rutgersuniversity cook college) should have similar ag sites.