11 Creative and Sustainable Garden Hacks Using Eggshells
Eggshells are a common kitchen waste, but they can be quite useful in your garden. Instead of tossing them out, there are many creative ways to repurpose them. These humble shells are full of nutrients that can benefit your plants. They are easy to use and offer a natural, eco-friendly solution to garden care. Let us explore some simple ways to put your eggshells to good use.
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Add Eggshells to the Compost

Eggshells are a great addition to your compost pile because they break down and enrich the soil with calcium. Crushing them into smaller pieces before adding them will speed up the decomposition process. They also help balance the pH levels of your compost, ensuring that it remains healthy and nutrient-rich. Adding eggshells to compost is an eco-friendly way to recycle and improve your garden soil.
When composting eggshells, make sure to mix them well with other organic materials like leaves and vegetable scraps. Over time, the eggshells will break down and provide important minerals that benefit your garden. They are a natural, chemical-free way to improve soil quality. Your plants will thrive with the added nutrients from eggshells.
Use Eggshells as Natural Fertilizer

Eggshells can act as a natural fertilizer, slowly releasing calcium into the soil. Calcium is essential for strong plant cell walls and root development. Simply crush the eggshells and sprinkle them around the base of your plants to promote healthy growth. This is a great way to feed your plants without using harsh chemicals.
Eggshells are particularly beneficial for plants like tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers that need extra calcium to prevent blossom-end rot. They provide a steady, long-lasting source of nutrients, helping your garden flourish. You can even mix the crushed shells into the planting holes when you first plant your seeds. This simple, organic fertilizer is cost-effective and good for the environment.
Repel Pests with Eggshells

Eggshells can help protect your plants from pests like slugs and snails. The sharp edges of crushed eggshells make it difficult for these soft-bodied creatures to crawl over them. Simply spread a layer of crushed eggshells around the base of your plants to create a barrier. This method is safe for your plants and harmless to the environment.
The eggshells act as a natural, non-toxic deterrent, preventing pests from reaching your garden. This technique is effective for protecting your flowers, vegetables, and herbs. It is a simple and eco-friendly way to control garden pests. Just be sure to reapply the eggshells after rain, as they can break down over time.
Improve Drainage in Pots

Eggshells can improve drainage in your garden pots, helping to prevent water from stagnating and causing root rot. Simply place a layer of crushed eggshells at the bottom of the pot before adding soil. The eggshells will create a barrier that allows excess water to flow through while preventing soil compaction. This is particularly useful for potted plants that require good drainage, like succulents and cacti.
In addition to improving drainage, eggshells can help aerate the soil in pots, giving plant roots better access to oxygen. They also provide a slow-release source of calcium for the plants. This simple trick makes your pots more efficient, ensuring that your plants grow strong and healthy. It is a great way to recycle your kitchen waste while supporting your plants.
Make Eggshell Tea for Plants

Eggshell tea is a liquid fertilizer made by soaking crushed eggshells in water. The calcium and other nutrients in the eggshells leach into the water, creating a nutrient-rich solution for your plants. To make eggshell tea, soak a handful of crushed eggshells in water for a few days, then use the liquid to water your plants. This tea can help promote strong root systems and overall plant health.
Eggshell tea is particularly beneficial for plants that need a boost in calcium, like tomatoes and peppers. It is an easy and affordable way to fertilize your garden. The nutrients are readily absorbed by the plants, helping them grow strong and healthy. You can make eggshell tea in small batches and use it regularly for best results.
Create a Natural Mulch

Crushed eggshells can be used as a mulch in your garden. Spread them on top of the soil around your plants to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. The shells also break down over time, adding calcium and other nutrients to the soil. This method helps reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and keeps your garden organic.
Using eggshells as mulch can also prevent the growth of weeds. The shells create a protective layer that makes it difficult for weeds to take root. It is a simple, inexpensive way to enrich your soil while keeping your garden looking tidy. Plus, it recycles your kitchen waste in a sustainable way.
Help Prevent Blossom-End Rot

Blossom-end rot is a common issue in tomatoes and peppers caused by calcium deficiency. By adding crushed eggshells to the planting hole or around the base of the plant, you can provide the necessary calcium to prevent this condition. The eggshells break down over time, releasing calcium into the soil, which helps plants absorb it through their roots.
For best results, mix crushed eggshells directly into the soil before planting, or scatter them around the base of established plants. This method is a natural and cost-effective way to prevent blossom-end rot. It is especially helpful for gardeners who want to avoid using chemical fertilizers. Your tomatoes and peppers will benefit from the added calcium, resulting in healthier fruit.
Improve Soil Structure

Eggshells can help improve the structure of your soil, especially if it is heavy or clay-like. When mixed into the soil, crushed eggshells help to break up compacted soil, allowing for better root penetration. The added calcium also helps neutralize soil acidity, making it more suitable for plants like tomatoes, peppers, and leafy greens.
By improving soil structure, eggshells can also promote better drainage and air circulation. This creates a healthier environment for plant roots to grow. Over time, eggshells will continue to provide nutrients that support long-term soil health. This is a simple, organic way to improve the quality of your garden soil.
Use Eggshells as a Seed Starter

Eggshells can be used as biodegradable seed starters for your plants. Simply crack the eggshell in half, remove the contents, and fill each half with soil. Plant your seeds in the shells and place them in a sunny spot. Once the seedlings are ready to be transplanted, you can plant them directly into the ground, shell and all.
The eggshell provides natural nutrients to the growing seedling and can help promote strong root growth. It is a perfect eco-friendly alternative to plastic seed trays. The shells will decompose over time, enriching the soil as your plants grow. This method is ideal for gardeners looking for a sustainable way to start their seeds.
Use Eggshells to Clean Garden Tools

Crushed eggshells can be used to clean your garden tools. The sharp edges of the shells help scrub away dirt and rust, making your tools look brand new. Simply place a handful of crushed eggshells in a small bowl and rub your tools over them. This natural cleaning method is both effective and environmentally friendly.
Eggshells also have mild abrasive properties, which help remove stuck-on soil and debris from your tools. This method can be used on any garden tools, from trowels to pruners. After cleaning, be sure to dry your tools to prevent any rust from forming. It is a quick and simple way to keep your garden tools in top shape.
Use Eggshells in Raised Garden Beds

If you have raised garden beds, crushed eggshells can be a great addition to the soil. They help with drainage, prevent soil compaction, and add valuable nutrients. Simply mix crushed eggshells into the soil or sprinkle them on top as a natural mulch. Over time, the eggshells will break down and improve the overall health of your raised bed.
Raised beds tend to have more concentrated soil, so adding eggshells can help balance the nutrients. The calcium from the shells also helps prevent common issues like blossom-end rot in tomatoes. This natural solution supports the growth of healthy plants. Using eggshells in raised beds is an easy and sustainable way to improve your garden.
Using eggshells in your garden is a great way to support plant health and promote sustainability. These versatile items can provide nutrients, improve soil quality, and reduce the need for chemicals.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.