What is boiled egg water?

Boiled egg water, also known as eggshell tea or simply egg water, is the water left over from boiling eggs. It contains calcium, nitrogen, and other nutrients that can benefit plants when used as a fertilizer.

How can boiled egg water help plants?

Calcium is an essential nutrient for plants, especially for the growth of their cell walls. Boiled egg water is a great source of calcium and can also provide smaller amounts of other nutrients like magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus. The nitrogen in egg water can also act as a fertilizer, promoting the growth of plants and encouraging the development of healthy foliage.

How to use boiled egg water for plants?

To use boiled egg water as a fertilizer, you can dilute it with water at a 1:1 ratio and pour it onto the soil around your plants. Alternatively, you can add the eggshells themselves to your soil. Crushed eggshells will slowly release calcium into the soil and can also help to aerate it. You can also use boiled egg water to water seedlings or transplants for an extra boost of nutrients.

Precautions when using boiled egg water for plants

While boiled egg water can provide many benefits for plants, it's important to use it wisely. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Don't use egg water (or eggshells) as the sole source of fertilizer for your plants. It's important to provide a balanced diet of nutrients to ensure healthy growth.

Don't use egg water on plants that are susceptible to disease, like tomatoes or peppers. The calcium in the egg water can promote the growth of fungal diseases.

Don't use egg water that has been sitting out for too long or has an off smell. This can indicate the presence of harmful bacteria that can be harmful to your plants.

The bottom line

Using boiled egg water as a fertilizer for plants can be a simple and cost-effective way to provide essential nutrients like calcium and nitrogen. However, it's important to use it wisely and not rely on it as the sole source of fertilizer for your plants. With a little care and attention, boiled egg water can be a great addition to your gardening routine.