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The effect of fly ash application on some physicochemical properties of a desertic sandy soil was examined under laboratory conditions. Fly ash collected from two sources, that is, directly from an electric precipitator and an old deposit, were mixed with soil each at 0, 8, and 15% and maintained moist at 50% field capacity. After one month, the treated soil was analyzed for moisture retention characteristics, available nutrients, and phosphate adsorption. Addition of fly ash resulted in a considerable improvement in available water holding capacity and a marginal increase in available N, P, K, Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu of the sandy soil. Adsorption maxima of phosphates increased while the bonding energy constant decreased due to addition of fly ash. Fly ash collected directly from the electric precipitator was more effective in improving the moisture retention capacity and available nutrient status of the sandy soil.