What Do Egg Shells Do for Tomato Plants

Tomatoes are a popular crop in many home gardens. They are delicious and versatile, used in everything from salads to sauces to sandwiches. Growing healthy tomato plants can be tricky though, especially if you want to avoid using synthetic fertilizers. One natural source of nutrients for tomato plants is eggshells. Eggshells can provide a variety of benefits to tomato plants, ensuring they grow strong and healthy. This article will explore what eggshells do for tomato plants and how to use them effectively.

Nutrients in Eggshells

Eggshells are rich in calcium, one of the essential nutrients that tomato plants need to thrive. Calcium helps strengthen cell walls, which makes the stems and leaves of the tomato plant more rigid and less prone to disease. The high levels of calcium in eggshells also aid in preventing blossom end rot, a common disease among tomato plants that causes the fruit to rot at the blossom end. Eggshells also contain other micronutrients such as magnesium, potassium and phosphorus.

Addition to Soil

Eggshells can be used to supplement the soil in which tomato plants are grown. Before planting tomato seeds, crush eggshells into small pieces, and mix them with the topsoil. This will allow the nutrients from the eggshells to leach into the soil, providing a slow-release source of nutrients for the growing plants. Eggshells are also an excellent way to reduce soil acidity levels that can be harmful to tomato plants. Follow the same process of crushing the eggshells and adding them to the soil, and the increased pH levels will help tomato plants thrive.

Organic Pest Control

Eggshells can be a natural deterrent to pests that may damage tomato plants. When crushed up and sprinkled around the base of the plant, eggshells create a scratchy surface that pests such as slugs and snails don't like to cross. This can reduce the number of pests in the area and minimize their damage to the plant. Additionally, eggshells are an organic alternative to chemical pesticides, which can be harmful to the environment and the health of the plants.

Composting Eggshells

Eggshells are compostable and can be added to a compost pile. Composting eggshells and other materials is an excellent way to create nutrient-rich soil for tomato plants. When eggshells are composted, they break down and release their nutrients over time, providing nutrient-rich soil. Adding compost to the soil around tomato plants will help the plants to grow strong and remain healthy throughout the growing season.

Conclusion

Eggshells are a natural and accessible source of nutrients for tomato plants. They contain calcium and other micronutrients that tomato plants need to thrive, and they can help prevent diseases such as blossom end rot. Eggshells can be added to the soil as a supplement or used as a natural pest deterrent. Additionally, composting eggshells is a great way to create nutrient-rich soil for tomato plants. Consider adding eggshells to your tomato garden today, and watch your plants grow strong and healthy!