From Iceland — Volcanic Ash May Be Helping Vegetation Growth

Volcanic Ash May Be Helping Vegetation Growth

Published June 24, 2010

Rex Beckett

Farmers in South Iceland that were affected by the Eyjafjallajökull eruption are experiencing extremely good growth of grass and grain, according to Morgunblaðið. The ash fall from the volcanic eruption may be a contributing factor to this.
Volcanic ash is thought to have a positive effect on plant growth due to having a high concentration of nutrients and minerals, particularly iron. Sigurjón Eyjólfsson, a farmer at Eystri-Pétursey, theorised that the dark colour of the ash is contributing to warmer grounds and retention of moisture which is speeding up growth.
Pétursey was among one of the areas worst affected by ash fall and the farmers in the region feared contamination to their soil and hay, but are now feeling more positive that they will experience good growth over the summer.

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