Live to Plant

Eggshell Plant Benefits

Updated: January 3, 2023

Eggshells are often thrown away as an unwanted waste product, but they can actually be used to improve your plant’s health. Eggshells are a great source of calcium, nitrogen, and other minerals that help plants grow strong and healthy. In this article, we’ll discuss five eggshell plant benefits and answer some frequently asked questions about eggshell plant.

Eggshell Plant Benefits

Increases Nutrient Content

Eggshells contain essential nutrients for plants such as calcium, phosphorous, potassium, magnesium, iron, and sulfur. These minerals are important for healthy plant growth and can help increase nutrient content in the soil.

Reduces Pests and Diseases

The calcium in eggshells helps reduce the risk of certain plant pests and diseases by creating an inhospitable environment. The high alkalinity of the eggshell helps to repel certain insects and fungi.

Improves Soil Structure

Eggshells can also improve the structure of the soil by increasing its porosity and drainage. This helps to aerate the soil and promote root growth.

Prevents Fertilizer Runoff

Eggshells help to absorb excess nutrients from other fertilizers, which can help prevent runoff into nearby water sources. This helps to keep water sources clean and reduce pollution.

Inexpensive and Easy To Use

Finally, eggshells are an inexpensive way to add nutrients to your plants and improve their health. They are also easy to use since all you need to do is crush them up before adding them to the soil.

Frequently Asked Questions About Eggshell Plants

How Much Should I Use?

Generally speaking, it is recommended to use two tablespoons of crushed eggshells per square foot of soil when planting new plants or when cultivating existing ones.

Can I Use Too Much?

Yes, it is possible to use too much eggshells in your garden. If the soil becomes too high in calcium, it can lead to deficiencies in other essential nutrients such as magnesium and potassium.

How Often Should I Add Eggshells?

You should add eggshells every few months or when you notice a calcium deficiency in your plants. It is best to add them before planting or transplanting for maximum benefit.

Do I Need To Crush The Shells?

Yes, it is important to crush the shells so that they can more easily be absorbed by the plants’ roots. You can use a blender or mortar and pestle for this purpose.

Are There Any Other Uses For Eggshells?

Yes, there are many other uses for eggshells besides improving plant health. The shells can be used as a natural abrasive cleaner or composted for future use in gardening projects.

Conclusion

Eggshell plant benefits are numerous and include increasing nutrient content, reducing pests and diseases, improving soil structure, preventing fertilizer runoff, and being inexpensive and easy to use. When used correctly, eggshells can be a great addition to any garden or landscape. Be sure to answer any questions you have before using them in your garden and remember that too much of anything can be detrimental to your plants’ health.