Can You Put Eggshells Around Your Potted Tomato Plant?

Tomato plants are a popular option for gardeners who want to grow their own vegetables. While there are many different techniques for supporting the growth of tomato plants, some gardeners swear by using eggshells. But can you really put eggshells around your potted tomato plant? Let's take a look.

The Benefits of Using Eggshells

There are a few potential benefits to putting eggshells around your potted tomato plant. First and foremost, eggshells are an excellent source of calcium. Calcium is an important nutrient for tomato plants because it helps to prevent blossom end rot, which is a common disease that can ruin an entire crop of tomatoes. Additionally, eggshells can help to deter unwanted pests from your tomato plant. Snails and slugs, for example, don't like the texture of eggshells and may be less likely to munch on your plants if you spread eggshells around them.

How to Use Eggshells with Your Tomato Plant

If you want to try using eggshells with your potted tomato plant, there are a few different methods that you can use. One option is to crush the eggshells into small pieces and then sprinkle them around the base of the plant. Alternatively, you can bury the eggshells in the soil near the roots of the plant. This can help to prevent unwanted pests from burrowing into the soil and damaging your plants. Another option is to add crushed eggshells to your compost or soil mix before planting, which can help to provide additional nutrients to your plant.

Things to Keep in Mind

While there are potential benefits to using eggshells with your tomato plant, it's important to keep a few things in mind. First, you'll want to make sure that your eggshells are clean and free of any residue or egg remnants. Otherwise, you could end up attracting unwanted pests or spreading bacteria to your plants. Additionally, you'll want to avoid using too many eggshells at once. While calcium is important for your plant, overdoing it can actually have negative effects on growth and development.

The Bottom Line

So, can you put eggshells around your potted tomato plant? The answer is yes, but with a few caveats. Eggshells can provide important nutrients and deter unwanted pests, but it's important to use them correctly and in moderation. With a bit of care and attention, using eggshells with your tomato plant can be a great way to support healthy growth and development.