Q: We had a beloved cat cremated recently. We now have a bag that is smaller than a sandwich bag containing his ashes, and I had planned to mix them into the soil outside his favorite window – unless it would make the soil harmful to the flowers. I realize this is an odd request, but I’d be interested in an opinion.

A: I’m not aware of anything that would be harmful to plants or soil in the ashes -- especially that small amount and especially if mixed into the soil where it would be diluted. If anything, it should add nutrition.