Potash questions

[Digeroo]

I have some remains of fires that I have been given.

I have the following questions

1 why is this kind of potash red, when boughten stuff is white,
2 Which plants like it
3 How much should I apply

[Digeroo]

[Robert_Brenchley]

Ash can be white or red, depending on what's been burnt. Red usually means whatever it was contained a few percent of iron, but it's just oxide, and does no harm.

[gavinjconway]

Any fruiting plant loves potash... sprinkle it on and water it in when fruits are forming.

[Chrispy]

Avoid any acid loving plants as the ash can raise the soil PH.

[Digeroo]

Many thanks I willkeep away from raspberries. 

Bit of a problem with potatoes seems they like potash but go scabby with too much lime.

[goodlife]

Wood ash is good source for K = potassium and contain some calcium and phosphorus too.
It is quite short acting and won't last long in soil so better stored and used when needed. I use mine mixed in damp compost.. easy to sprinkle on soil and don't get blown all over the place.
You can used it with potatoes.. but its best not used in huge quantity and not applied into the trenches where it cause scab when in direct contact with the tubers.
I like to apply some ash with compost mulch for oniony and brassica plants in middle of summer..in theory that added potash should help making 'hardier' plants/bulbs that can resist heat/cold and/or diseases  during growth and in storage.
I always use something to 'blend' the ash with as it can damage young delicate roots and leaves!