Never Throw Away Eggshells: Your Plants Will Thank You!
Eggshells are an eco-friendly way to deter garden pests. When crushed and scattered around plants, they create a physical barrier that repels soft-bodied insects like slugs and snails. The sharp edges of the shells irritate these pests, discouraging them from crawling over the soil to feed on your plants.
Eggshells can also deter larger pests, such as rodents and cats. Their coarse texture makes digging or disturbing garden beds uncomfortable for these animals, helping protect your plants.
5. Enhances Composting
Adding eggshells to your compost pile enriches it with valuable nutrients like calcium and trace minerals. These nutrients are gradually released into the compost, benefiting your plants when the finished product is added to the soil. Eggshells also help balance the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio in compost, speeding up decomposition and preventing unpleasant odors.
6. Aids in Seed Starting
Eggshells make fantastic biodegradable containers for starting seeds. Simply clean the shells, fill them with potting soil, and plant your seeds. As the seedlings grow, the shells provide extra calcium and nutrients, supporting strong root and stem development. When it’s time to transplant, place the entire shell (lightly crushed) into the soil—it will decompose naturally, adding nutrients to the surrounding earth.
How to Use Eggshells in the Garden
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