Compost Booster: Add crushed eggshells to your compost pile. They balance acidity and add calcium, but make sure to crush them finely to speed decomposition.
Seed Starter Mix: Mix powdered eggshells with soil and a little compost for starting seeds that require calcium, such as tomatoes and peppers.
Pest Deterrent: Coarsely crushed shells sprinkled around plants can deter slugs and snails, though this method is less about fertilization and more about pest control.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I just bury whole eggshells in my garden?
A: Whole shells take a long time to break down and release nutrients. Crushing or powdering speeds up this process and makes calcium more accessible to plants.
Q: Will eggshells change my soil pH?
A: Eggshells are alkaline and can raise soil pH slightly, which is beneficial for acidic soils but may not be suitable for plants preferring acidic conditions.
Q: How much eggshell fertilizer should I use?
A: Use about one tablespoon of finely ground eggshell powder per plant or mix about a cup into a square foot of soil before planting.
Q: Are eggshells safe for all plants?
A: Most plants benefit from calcium, but excessive use can cause nutrient imbalance. Use eggshell fertilizer in moderation.
If you want, I can also help with formatting this for a blog or gardening site. Would you like me to?
