If you’re like me, you probably toss your eggshells into the garbage as soon as crack an egg. But next time, you might want to think twice as eggshells are extremely beneficial in a variety of ways, especially if you’re a gardener.
Rich in calcium and other minerals, eggshells have several uses that can benefit soil, plants, and even keep pests at bay.
So next time you make breakfast, save those eggshells—they just might be your garden’s new best friend.
Keep reading to see why you might want to save those shells instead of tossing them out.
Eggshells as a natural fertilizer
Eggshells contain a high amount of calcium carbonate, a nutrient essential for plant health. Crushed eggshells can be added directly to soil to balance its pH levels and enrich it with calcium. Fruits like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants, which are prone to blossom end rot if calcium levels are low, benefit the most.
Simply dry, crush, and sprinkle eggshells around the base of your plants or mix them into the soil for a slow-release calcium boost.
Natural pest deterrent
Eggshells provide a natural solution to common garden pests. The sharp edges of crushed eggshells create a barrier that discourages slugs, snails, and other soft-bodied pests from getting too close to your plants. The use of crushed eggshells protects your plants without the use of chemical pesticides.
Enhances compost quality
Instead of tossing your eggshells directly into the trash, throw them in your compost pile. They contribute calcium to the compost, enriching it with essential minerals for plant growth. Since eggshells take time to break down, they provide a steady release of nutrients when the compost is eventually added to your garden.
Would you have ever thought to recycle your eggshells? I know I wouldn’t, but now I most definitely will.
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