Question: what are ashes good for?
Answer: Amending Lawn and Garden Soil. Wood ash is a readily available source of potassium, calcium, and magnesium which are essential for plant health. ... 
Repel Slugs. ... 
Melt Ice and Provide Winter Traction. ... 
Reduce or Remove Oil Stains on asphalt, stone, and cement.
Clean Glass and Metal.