The next time you crack a few eggs to make breakfast or for baking, don’t toss away the shells as they can be a great organic additive to your garden.
Crushed eggshells can add valuable nutrients back into the soil with the high-level of calcium being very beneficial to plants. So, with Easter just around the corner, and the sun finally out, now is a great time to get out in the garden and utilise a traditional kind of egg.
Eggshells have many benefits for plants, including:
Fertilizer
Eggshells are a natural fertilizer that provide calcium, which is essential for plant cell wall development. They can also help reduce soil acidity, which can be beneficial for fast-growing plants that are prone to calcium deficiency.
Pest control
Eggshells can be used as a natural pest repellent to deter slugs and snails. The sharp shells make it difficult for these pests to slither over them.
Mulch
Eggshells can be used as mulch to help plants retain moisture and repel weeds. However, you’ll need a large quantity of eggshells to make enough mulch.
Soil pH balance
Eggshells can be mixed with coffee grounds to create a more balanced soil pH.