How to Use Eggshells as Fertilizer:
Eggshells are an awesome natural fertilizer for the garden. It helps boost calcium in your garden soil. Eggshells are great too because they are a natural slow-release fertilizer that won’t burn your plants.
Why is calcium important? It’s a building block of plant cell walls, which means sturdier plants. It also prevents blossom end rot which can be common in tomatoes, peppers and squash. Calcium also aids root development and nutrient intake.
1. Collect and Clean the Eggshells
Rinse the shells with water to remove any egg residue. Let them air dry completely (or bake at 200°F/93°C for 10-15 minutes to dry and sanitize). Highly recommend baking the eggs to kill bacteria. (Thanks for the tip, Mom!)
Feel free to wait until you have enough to use on a cookie sheet.
2. Crush or Grind Them (For best results, grind the shells into a fine powder)
I find the best way to grind them was to put them in a blender and blend into a fine powder (Finer powder breaks down faster in soil). You may also use a food processor. I tried the rolling pin and plastic bag method and it didn’t give me the consistency I wanted.
3. Apply to Soil
- Mix into garden beds or containers when planting vegetables, herbs, or flowers. About one teaspoon per plant
- Use around the base of tomatoes, peppers, squash, or roses (all plants that crave calcium)
- Add to compost piles as a slow-release calcium source.
- Give them a good water after applying!
I hope this helps! Enjoy!
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