How Many Egg Shells per Tomato Plant

Many gardeners use egg shells as a natural addition to their soil. Egg shells are rich in calcium, which plays a crucial role in plant growth, especially for tomatoes. However, the question is how many egg shells per tomato plant are necessary for optimal growth and yield?

The Benefits of Egg Shells for Tomato Plants

Before we answer the question, let’s first understand the benefits of egg shells for tomato plants. Calcium is essential for a plant’s cell growth and division, and it also helps prevent blossom end rot, a common disease that affects tomato plants. Egg shells also contain other nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium that can benefit the plants.

How Many Egg Shells per Tomato Plant?

There is no exact answer to this question since it depends on various factors. The amount of egg shells required is mainly determined by the pH level and the size of the tomato plant. A soil pH level of 6.5 to 7.5 is optimal for the growth of tomato plants, and adding too many egg shells can cause the pH level to become too high. The recommended amount is to add one or two egg shells per plant, crushed into small pieces before being added to the soil.

How to Add Egg Shells to the Soil

Before adding egg shells to the soil, it is necessary to dry them first. Rinse the egg shells and let them dry in an area with good air circulation for a few days. Once they are dry, crush them into small pieces using a pestle and mortar or simply crush them in your hand. Add the crushed egg shells to the soil around the tomato plant, mixing them into the top layer of the soil.

Other Ways to Use Egg Shells in the Garden

In addition to using egg shells as a soil amendment, there are other ways to use them in the garden. You can use crushed egg shells as a mulch to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. You can also use them to protect your plants from pests. Crushed egg shells act as a physical barrier that pests cannot cross, and they also deter slugs and snails since the sharp edges of the shells irritate their bodies.

In Conclusion

Egg shells are a natural and affordable way to provide your tomato plants with the necessary calcium and nutrients they need for optimal growth and yield. However, it is essential to use them in moderation and take into account the soil pH level and the size of the tomato plant. Adding one or two egg shells per plant is enough, and you can also use them in other ways to benefit your garden.