Recycling eggshells is a great way to reduce waste and give back to the environment. Here are four tips for recycling eggshells effectively:
- Composting: Crush the eggshells into small pieces and add them to your compost bin or pile. Eggshells add calcium to the compost, which is beneficial for plants. Make sure to crush them well to speed up decomposition. Additionally, the sharp edges can deter pests like slugs and snails.
- Garden Fertilizer: Instead of composting, you can also directly use crushed eggshells as a fertilizer for your garden. Simply sprinkle crushed eggshells around the base of your plants. The calcium-rich shells will slowly break down, enriching the soil and providing nutrients to your plants.
- Seed Starter Pots: Use halved eggshells as biodegradable seed starter pots. Fill each half with potting soil and plant your seeds. Once the seedlings are ready to be transplanted, you can plant them directly into the soil, eggshell and all. The eggshell will decompose over time, providing additional nutrients to the growing plant.
- Pest Control: Crushed eggshells can also be used as a natural pest deterrent in your garden. Scatter crushed eggshells around the base of plants to create a barrier that slugs, snails, and certain insects will avoid crossing. This method is especially effective for protecting delicate plants from these pests.
By following these tips, you can effectively recycle eggshells while also benefiting your garden and reducing waste.