Is Egg Shells Good for Plants?

Egg shells are a common household waste product that can be highly beneficial for plants. Instead of throwing them away, you can recycle them straight into your garden or houseplants. Egg shells can provide a range of beneficial nutrients for plants, promoting their growth and improving their overall health. Here's everything you need to know about using egg shells in your garden:

The Nutrients in Egg Shells

Egg shells are rich in calcium, a mineral that is essential for plant growth. Calcium plays an important role in cell division, the formation of new tissue, and helping plants to absorb other nutrients like nitrogen and magnesium. In addition to calcium, egg shells also contain small amounts of other beneficial nutrients, including potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium. All of these nutrients can contribute to improved plant health, leading to stronger stems, healthier foliage, and more bountiful blooms.

How to Use Egg Shells in Your Garden

There are several ways to add egg shells to your garden. The first is by crushing them into small pieces and mixing them into the soil. This will provide the soil with both calcium and other nutrients, improving its overall quality. You can also use eggshells to make a homemade fertilizer. Simply crush the shells into a powder, and mix them with water. Allow the mixture to steep for a few days, strain out the solids, and then use the liquid fertilizer to water your plants.

Egg shells can also be used as a natural pest control. Crushed egg shells can create a barrier around your plants, deterring slugs, snails, and other pests that may damage your garden. The sharp edges of the egg shells can cause discomfort to many pests, preventing them from reaching and damaging your plants.

Tips for Using Egg Shells in Your Garden

When adding egg shells to your garden, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, always wash your egg shells thoroughly before adding them to your garden. This will help to remove any bacteria or residues that may be harmful to your plants. Secondly, it's important to crush the shells into small pieces before adding them to the soil or creating a fertilizer. This will help them to break down more quickly, releasing their nutrients and benefiting your plants. Finally, be sure to avoid adding too many egg shells at once. While they can be highly beneficial for your plants, too many egg shells can make the soil too alkaline, making it difficult for your plants to absorb other important nutrients.

The Bottom Line

Egg shells can be an excellent addition to any garden. They are a natural, cost-effective way to provide your plants with a range of beneficial nutrients, including calcium, potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium. In addition, they can help to deter pests, promoting a healthier, more thriving garden. Be sure to follow the above tips when using egg shells in your garden, and watch as your plants flourish with the added boost of these tiny wonders.