Do you go through a lot of eggs at home? You’re definitely not alone. Eggs are delicious, versatile, and full of protein — but what many people don’t realize is that their shells are just as valuable. Before you toss them in the trash, here are seven powerful reasons why you should start saving your eggshells instead.
1. Natural Pest Deterrent
Are slugs, worms, or snails destroying your garden? Scatter some crushed eggshells around the base of your plants and watch what happens. These sharp-edged shells are uncomfortable for pests to crawl over, keeping them away from your flowers and vegetables without using harsh chemicals.
2. Repels Deer
If you live near wooded areas, you’ve probably dealt with deer nibbling on your plants. Good news — eggshells can help with that too. Simply sprinkle some around your garden beds. It turns out deer can’t stand the smell of eggshells, so they’ll keep their distance. Give it a try and enjoy your garden free of unwanted grazers.
3. Bird Feed
Having birds visit your garden isn’t just peaceful — it’s beneficial. They eat harmful insects and help keep pest populations in check. Birds also love eggshells! Sprinkle crushed shells around your garden, and you’ll soon notice more feathered friends stopping by for their favorite snack.
4. Boost Your Soil’s Health
Eggshells are packed with calcium and trace minerals that your plants love. By mixing crushed shells into the soil, you’ll enrich it naturally, giving your plants the nutrients they need to grow strong and healthy.
5. Keep Your Veggies Healthy
Some vegetables, like tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers, are prone to rotting from calcium deficiencies. To prevent this, bury crushed eggshells in the soil around your plants. The shells slowly release calcium, helping your produce grow firm, flavorful, and free from rot.
6. Achieve Balanced Soil
If your garden soil is too acidic, it can be tough for certain plants to thrive. Luckily, eggshells can help balance pH levels. Work crushed shells into the soil around your plants to create a more stable and nourishing environment for them to flourish.
7. Composting Made Easy
Don’t throw those shells away — compost them! Crushed eggshells make an excellent addition to your compost pile, enriching it with valuable minerals and improving its texture. Composting your shells not only benefits your garden but also helps reduce household waste.
So next time you crack an egg, think twice before tossing the shell. Those tiny fragments can make a huge difference in your garden’s health — and in living a more eco-friendly, sustainable way.
