Don’t throw away eggshells! Here’s what makes them useful

Eggshells are often overlooked as waste, but they have several uses that can benefit your garden and household. If you love having eggs for breakfast, learn why you should start saving those shells instead of throwing them away.

Natural Insect Repellent

Did you know that eggshells can protect your garden from pests? Crushed eggshells are effective against slugs, worms, and snails that damage your plants. Simply scatter the crushed shells around your plants, and the natural fragrance of the eggshells will keep these critters at bay.

Keep Deer at a Distance

For those living near wooded areas, deer can be a common garden nuisance. Much like their effect on smaller pests, eggshells can deter deer as well. Sprinkling crushed eggshells around your garden can help protect your plants from being destroyed by deer.

A Treat for Birds

While some pests dislike eggshells, birds see them as a treat. Scatter broken eggshells in your yard to attract birds. They not only enjoy the snack but also help control insects and add beauty and liveliness to your garden with their presence.

Enhance Soil Health

Eggshells can be ground into dust and used as a natural fertilizer. This helps to lower the pH of the soil, making it more alkaline and beneficial for plants preferring such conditions. This simple step can improve your soil’s nutrient absorption capacity.

Grow Healthier Vegetables

Adding crushed eggshells to your garden soil can prevent calcium deficiencies in plants such as tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers. This helps reduce the risk of blossom end rot and promotes the growth of vibrant and tasty vegetables.

Improve Potted Plant Soil

Research shows that eggshells can increase the pH level in potting soil, which is crucial for the healthy growth of potted plants. Although they may not alter the pH of large garden soils significantly, they are perfect for smaller, contained spaces.

Easy Composting

Eggshells are an excellent addition to your compost bin. They break down slowly, adding essential nutrients and minerals to the compost. For quicker decomposition, rinse and crush the eggshells before adding them to your compost pile.

Next time you cook eggs, think twice before discarding the shells. They can be a valuable addition to your garden and household routines. Don’t forget to share these tips on Facebook with friends and family who might find them helpful!