Taal ash good for soil fertility when processed, scientist says

The ash emitted by the Taal Volcano may be used as plant fertilizer after processing due to its rich mineral content, a soil scientist said on Thursday.

In a report on GMA News' Balitanghali, Dr. Rodrigo Badayos said that volcanic ash is rich in minerals such as potassium, iron, magnesium, sodium, and calcium, which are needed by plants.

However, Badayos clarified that the ash must first be processed and mixed with soil or clay soil before it could be beneficial.

The scientist also urged the public not to hoard the ash or place it in a sack as it may solidify and turn cement-like, which may lead to the death of plants in two or three days.

According to Badayos, this was the reason why plants in Batangas and Tagaytay died after the Taal Volcano's eruption on Sunday. — Joahna Lei Casilao/BM, GMA News