Using element concentrations in fine root of Norway spruce (Picea abies), changes of the element availability in the forest soils after the treatments "control", "wood ash", "liquid fertiliser", and "water" could be detected. After the ash and liquid fertiliser treatments, K, Mg, and P concentrations in fine roots were increased, whereas elevated Ca concentrations were detected only after the ash, and elevated N concentrations only after the liquid fertiliser treatment. An enhancement of the soil pH due to the ash treatment led to decreased concentrations of Mn, Fe, and Al in the fine roots. The concentrations of the heavy metal Zn were not affected by the treatments.