If you love eggs for breakfast and eat them frequently, you might want to think twice before throwing away the eggshells. Here are some reasons to keep them:
1. **All-Natural Insect Repellent**
If slugs, worms, and snails are causing havoc in your garden, crushed eggshells can help. Simply sprinkle them around your plants; the fragrance repels these pests, keeping your garden safe.
2. **Deer Deterrent**
Eggshells can also keep deer away. If deer often visit and damage your plants, scattering eggshells in your garden might help protect them.
3. **Bird Food**
While some pests are repelled by eggshells, birds love them. Spreading eggshells in your yard can attract birds, which not only enjoy the treat but also help control insects, adding beauty and life to your garden.
4. **Soil Health Booster**
Eggshell dust or solution makes an excellent fertilizer. Their calcium carbonate content lowers the soil’s pH, benefiting plants that thrive in less acidic conditions. This adjustment helps these plants absorb nutrients more effectively.
5. **Healthier Vegetables**
Eggshells can prevent calcium deficiencies in plants like tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers, reducing the risk of blossom end rot. Adding crushed eggshells to your soil will keep your vegetables vibrant, plump, and tasty.
6. **pH Adjustment for Potted Plants**
Research by horticulture experts shows that eggshells can raise the pH of soil in potted plants. While it may be challenging to collect enough eggshells to affect a large garden, they are effective for smaller pots.
7. **Composting Aid**
Eggshells are great for composting. They decompose slowly, adding valuable nutrients and minerals to the compost. Rinse and crush them before adding to your compost pile to speed up the decomposition process.
Next time you have eggs, consider using the shells to enhance your garden or potted plants.
