How to Use Eggshells on Tomato Plants

Do you want to grow healthy and strong tomato plants? If yes, then you must know that adding eggshells to the soil can be beneficial. Eggshells are a rich source of calcium, which is essential for plant growth. In this article, we will discuss how to use eggshells on tomato plants.

Collecting Eggshells

The first step in using eggshells on tomato plants is to collect them. You can collect eggshells from your kitchen, or you can ask your friends and family to save them for you. Rinse the eggshells to remove any egg residue, and then dry them. You can either leave them out in the sun to dry or bake them in the oven at 200 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes. Once dry, crush them into small pieces.

Adding Eggshells to the Soil

The next step is to add the crushed eggshells to the soil. You can do this in different ways, depending on your preference. You can mix the crushed eggshells with the soil before planting the tomato seeds, or you can simply sprinkle them on top of the soil after the seedlings have emerged. Alternatively, you can use the eggshells to make a tea to water your plants. To make eggshell tea, add the crushed eggshells to a container with water and let it sit for a few days. Then, strain out the shells and use the water to water your tomato plants.

Benefits of Eggshells

Adding eggshells to the soil has many benefits for tomato plants. As mentioned earlier, eggshells are rich in calcium, which is essential for plant growth. Calcium helps to strengthen the cell walls of the plant, making it more resistant to disease and pests. Calcium also helps to prevent blossom end rot, a common problem in tomato plants. Eggshells also improve soil drainage and aeration, which is crucial for healthy root growth.

Tips for Using Eggshells

Here are some tips to help you use eggshells on tomato plants:

Use only clean, dry eggshells. Wet eggshells can attract pests and bacteria.

Crush the eggshells into small pieces to make it easier for them to break down in the soil.

Avoid using too many eggshells at once, as this can cause the soil pH to become too alkaline.

Continue adding eggshells to the soil throughout the growing season, as they will continue to provide calcium and improve the soil structure.

In Conclusion

Using eggshells on tomato plants is an easy and affordable way to improve soil health and provide essential nutrients to the plant. With the right preparation and application, eggshells can help you grow healthy and strong tomato plants that produce abundant fruit.