If you frequently enjoy eggs for breakfast, you might be tossing out something unexpectedly valuable. Let’s delve into why keeping those eggshells can be beneficial in more ways than one. It’s amazing how these seemingly useless items can offer so much more beyond the breakfast table.
Natural Pest Deterrent
Do pesky slugs, worms, and snails feast on your garden plants? Crushed eggshells could be your garden’s best friend. By scattering crushed shells around your plants, you’ll create a natural barrier against these critters. They dislike the texture and smell, so your garden will remain lush and protected from these unwanted visitors.
Repels Deer
If deer tend to wander into your garden, eggshells could provide an unexpected solution. Those living near wooded areas often find deer munching on their plants. Spreading eggshells can help keep deer at bay, ensuring your garden remains undisturbed.
Bird Feed
Interestingly, while eggshells repel certain creatures, they attract others—like birds! Sprinkle some crushed shells in your garden, and birds will thank you. These visitors not only brighten your garden with their charm but also help reduce insect problems by feasting on pests.
Boost Your Soil’s Health
Eggshells are fantastic for improving soil health. They’re rich in calcium carbonate, helping lower the acidity of your soil naturally. This shift towards a more alkaline composition can benefit the growth of plants that prefer such conditions. Utilize crushed eggshells as a natural fertilizer to enhance your garden’s vitality and sustainability.
Keep Your Veggies Healthy
The calcium from eggshells can be a boon for plants like tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers, which are prone to calcium deficiencies. By integrating crushed eggshells in the soil, you can prevent problems such as blossom end rot, ensuring your vegetables remain healthy and delicious.
Raise pH for Potted Plants
Eggshells can work wonders even for your potted plants. Studies suggest that they can help increase soil pH effectively in containers. While it might be tough to accumulate enough eggshells to see a significant change in a large garden, they can certainly make a difference in a pot’s soil blend.
Composting Made Easy
Lastly, eggshells are great for composting. When crushed, they break down slowly and enrich compost with essential nutrients and minerals. Remember to rinse them to remove any egg remnants and crush them to speed up decomposition. This small step ensures that your eggshells contribute significantly to your compost pile.
The next time you crack open an egg, remember that those shells can do wonders for your plants and garden. Take advantage of what nature provides and watch your flowers and plants thrive with a little help from eggshells!
