As a home gardener, I am constantly trying to find ways to recycle what I have and save money along the way. I love learning new things and learning how to use eggshells in my garden was a pivotal gardening moment for me.
Who knew that meeting the fertilizing needs of my plants only required me to reuse one of the most common household foods, eggs? More specifically eggshells.
I knew the benefits of creating my own compost, and recycling coffee grounds, but had never heard of reusing eggshells to help my plants thrive. There is always something new to learn!
This article will explore the possible uses of eggshells in the home garden so that we can not only help our garden thrive but save some pennies along the way
Eggs are a powerhouse of nutrients! Not only for the human body but for plants as well.
They contain high levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium which plants need to grow.
In addition, they are a fantastic source of calcium, magnesium, and sulfur. These micronutrients can help combat plant disease and provide plants with the essential nutrients they need to thrive.
Eggshells can be crushed up and used as a fertilizer, as a means of pest control, as a seed starter, and even as an activator to your compost pile.
1. Eggshells As A Fertilizer
Eggshells are a great slow-release fertilizer.
They can either be crushed and added directly to the soil or incorporated into a compost bin.
The shells are a source of calcium, magnesium, and other vital plant nutrients.
As the shells decompose, they will slowly leach these nutrients into the soil where the plants can readily absorb them.
2. Eggshells As Pest Control
Eggshells are a great, natural way of deterring pests such as snails and slugs. Their tiny, slimy bodies abhor the feeling of jagged shells.
Sprinkle crushed eggshells around the plants you want to protect.
Over time the eggshells will decompose and feed the soil. Not only are you using chemical-free pest control, but you’re also feeding your plants: two birds, one stone.
3. Eggs As A Seed Starter
As a gardener, I like to save money.
I try to start all my plants from seeds rather than buy them from the nursery.
It can get really expensive really quickly otherwise. Plus, I like a variety of cultivars to choose from, and starting my own plants from seeds is the most feasible way of making this happen.
Eggshells can be used as biodegradable seed starters.
Make sure to clean them well and poke a small hole in the bottom with a pin. This will allow for ample drainage as you wait for your seeds to germinate.
Fill each shell with organic potting soil such as FoxFarms organic potting soil.
Once your seedlings emerge and you are ready to plant, simply plant the entire shell in the ground. As the plant grows, the shell will deteriorate giving your plant an extra boost of calcium.
4. Compost Activator
Adding a composting bin or pile to your home garden is a great way to have access to rich, organic matter for your plants.
Compost bins often need an activator when first started. It helps “activate” the bacteria that break down the products added to the compost pile. Eggshells can be used as a compost activator.
The high levels of calcium and other micronutrients in the shells can help speed up the composting process by providing a food source for the beneficial microbes that break down organic matter.
Crushed eggshells can be added to your compost pile to provide a slow-release source of nutrients.
5. Soil Amendment
Eggshells can be added to the soil as an amendment. Calcium is essential for plant growth and is often lacking in soils. Adding crushed eggshells to your garden soil can help increase the soil’s calcium levels, providing a better environment for plant growth.
Using Eggshells in Container Gardening
I grow many of my vegetables and berries in containers. Container gardening is a great way to grow plants when you don’t have a lot of space to do so.
Eggshells can be particularly beneficial in container gardening, where nutrients can become depleted more quickly.
Here are some ways to use eggshells in container gardening:
Mix crushed eggshells with potting soil to provide a slow-release source of nutrients.
Use eggshells as a natural drainage material. Crushed eggshells can be placed at the bottom of a container to improve drainage and prevent waterlogging.
Place eggshells on top of the soil to deter pests. Slugs and snails often climb up the sides of containers to reach plants. Placing crushed eggshells on top of the soil can create a natural barrier that prevents these pests from reaching your plants.
Using Eggshells in Organic Gardening
Organic gardening is all about using natural and sustainable methods to grow plants.
Using eggshells in organic gardening is a perfect fit, as they are a natural source of essential nutrients that plants need.
Here are some ways to use eggshells in organic gardening:
Crushed eggshells can be added to the soil as an amendment to provide a slow-release source of calcium and other micronutrients.
Eggshells can be used as a natural pest control method. Crushed eggshells can be sprinkled around the base of plants to deter slugs, snails, and other soft-bodied pests.
Use eggshells to feed your plants. Eggshells can be steeped in water for several days to create a calcium-rich tea that can be used to water your plants. This provides an excellent source of nutrients for your plants and helps to prevent calcium deficiency, which can lead to issues like blossom end rot in tomatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Using Eggshells In The Garden
What type of eggshells are best to use in the garden?
Any type of eggshell can be used in the garden, including those from chicken, duck, quail, or any other bird. However, it’s important to clean and crush the eggshells before use to prevent any potential contamination.
How often should I apply eggshells to the garden?
Eggshells can be added to the garden soil at any time, but it’s recommended to do so at least once a year. Crushed eggshells can also be used as a mulch or steeped in water to create a calcium-rich tea that can be used to water plants on a regular basis.
Can I use eggshells in combination with other fertilizers?
Yes, eggshells can be used in combination with other organic fertilizers like compost, manure, or bone meal. However, it’s important not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to nutrient imbalances and other issues in the garden. Always follow the recommended application rates for each fertilizer.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, eggshells are an excellent resource for enhancing your gardening experience.
Whether you are container gardening, practicing organic gardening, or simply growing plants at home, eggshells can provide numerous benefits.
From providing a slow-release source of essential nutrients to deterring pests and diseases, eggshells are a versatile and eco-friendly option for improving soil fertility and plant growth.
Give eggshells a try this gardening season and let us know in the comments below what you think!
