1. Nutrients for the soil
Eggshells are broken down quickly, and can supply many nutrients to the soil. Amongst other things, the shells contain valuable calcium and other minerals. If you have enough eggshells, you can really enrich your soil.
2. Drainage
Digging holes and placing eggshells below your plants can assist in increasing the drainage capacity and air circulation of the soil. This, in turn, helps plants stay healthy. Just remember that you’re going to have to replace the eggshells as they degrade.
3. Tomatoes
Tomatoes, aubergines and peppers can suffer from calcium deficiency when growing, which causes them to rot. One tip to avoid this is to bury eggshells in the soil. As stated previously, the calcium they contain can be absorbed by the soil and then used by the plants.
4. Keeping snails and worms at bay
A classic garden hack is to scatter broken eggshells around plants, flowers and crops. Apparently the shells are good for keeping snails and worms away, because they don’t like to go over them. All without touching pesticides!
5. Keeping deer away
Alright, not all of you have to worry about deer getting in amongst your plants, but for those that do (the more rural-based readers), deers apparently hate the smell of eggshells.
6. Growing pods
If you’re thinking about planting seeds, eggshells can be perfect as bio-degradable pots. Rinse the shell, place your shells in a carton by the windowsill and fix the soil and shoots. This way, the plants get extra calcium too (as already discussed). When the shoots get too big, simply place the shells in the ground. Of course, it’s a good idea to make a hole in the eggshell for the roots to spread out from.
7. Bird food
Small birds love crushed eggshells because they contain so much calcium. When birds flock to your garden, they offer even more benefits – including their own methods of pest control!
8. pH balance
The pH balance of soil can affect the colour of certain flowers. Take, for example, the hydrangea, which can turn pink or blue depending on the acid/alkali balance in the soil. If your soil is too acidic, using eggshells to balance the pH can be a neat trick.
9. Compost
Eggshells can be a great addition to compost heaps. Remember to crush the shells first to ensure you get the best results!
With these few tips, you can reduce waste and help your garden all at the same time – and it’s so easy to do!
Don’t forget to share these tips with your friends so they can benefit from these hacks involving eggshells.