Boost Your Garden’s Health
Eggshells are a natural source of calcium carbonate, which helps neutralize soil acidity. Crushed shells sprinkled into your garden beds can improve soil structure and prevent blossom-end rot in tomatoes, peppers, and squash.
Pro tip: Rinse, dry, and crush the shells into small pieces before adding them to the soil for faster breakdown.
Natural Pest Control
Tired of slugs and snails munching on your garden greens? Scatter crushed eggshells around plants as a natural deterrent. The sharp edges make it uncomfortable for soft-bodied pests to crawl over, keeping your garden safe without chemicals.
Compost Enrichment
Eggshells break down slowly, but when added to compost, they enrich it with calcium. This extra boost of minerals creates healthier, more balanced compost for your garden.
Household Cleaning Hack
Did you know crushed eggshells make an excellent mild abrasive? Mix them with a little soapy water to scrub pots, pans, or even narrow vases and bottles that are hard to reach. It’s a simple, eco-friendly cleaning solution right from your kitchen.
Feed Them Back to Your Chickens
Chickens need calcium to lay strong, healthy eggs. Instead of buying expensive supplements, you can recycle eggshells right back into their diet. Bake the shells at 250°F for about 10 minutes to kill bacteria, crush them finely, and mix into their feed or offer in a separate dish.
Household & Creative Uses
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Odor Absorber: Place dried eggshells in a mesh bag and drop them in the bottom of the trash can to help reduce odors.
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Seed Starters: Half shells make biodegradable seed-starting cups. Simply plant the shell directly in the soil when the seedlings are ready.
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Craft Projects: Crushed shells can be used in mosaics, ornaments, or even homemade candles for a rustic touch.
Backyard chicken owners know that nothing goes to waste on the homestead—and eggshells are no exception. From improving your soil to helping your hens, these everyday “scraps” can play a big role in creating a healthier, more sustainable home and garden.
So, next time you crack a farm-fresh egg, think twice before tossing the shell—you might be holding nature’s most underrated resource.
