For nearly two years, a man collected eggshells, leaving his neighbors puzzled and amused. But when he finally revealed his secret, they were left in shock—and now they do the same!
Many gardeners, despite the availability of modern fertilizers, continue to seek natural and eco-friendly ways to improve their harvests. One of these powerful natural tools is the humble eggshell, a simple yet highly effective solution that many experienced gardeners swear by.
8 Surprising Uses of Eggshells:
- Pest Control – Placing crushed eggshells around cabbage, radish, and turnip plants can deter butterflies and other pests, as they mistake the white shells for competition and avoid the area.
- Watermelon and Melon Growth Booster – Eggshells are rich in calcium, which helps these fruits develop stronger rinds and grow faster. Simply mix the crushed shells into the soil when planting.
- Preventing Tomato Blossom-End Rot – Tomatoes suffering from this condition often lack calcium. Sprinkling finely ground eggshells around your plants can help replenish this essential nutrient.
- Mole and Slug Repellent – Sharp eggshell fragments act as a natural barrier, keeping slugs and moles away without harming them.
- Soil pH Balance – If your soil is too acidic, finely crushed eggshells can help neutralize its pH, especially in sandy soils.
- Improving Clay Soil Structure – Adding crushed eggshells makes clay soil looser and more aerated, benefiting plant roots.
- Protection from Fungal Diseases – Sprinkling eggshell powder around seedlings can create an alkaline barrier that prevents fungal infections.
- Bigger, Sweeter Raspberries – Mixing eggshells into the soil under raspberry plants supplies calcium and essential nutrients, enhancing fruit size and sweetness.
How to Use Eggshells Correctly:
Wash, dry, and grind the shells in a coffee grinder before adding them to the soil. For extra benefits, create an eggshell-infused water by soaking the shells in water for a few days, then use it for watering calcium-loving plants. Don’t discard the inner membrane—it contains collagen and other beneficial compounds that nourish plants!
