Being the finest example of ‘best out of waste, eggshells are of great organic importance. Even though we often throw them away, using them for something worthy is a good practice.
But, are eggshells good for succulents as well?
Yes, eggshells are genuinely good for succulents. This is because the mineral content in eggshells is no less than any fertilizer. Rich in calcium, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus, eggshell improves the soil’s fertility and helps succulents grow adequately.
Well, if you are still confused about using nutrient-rich eggshells as an organic fertilizer, don’t worry. We have got you covered! In this article, we will discuss everything related to eggshells and why you should consider using them for succulents.
Are Eggshells Good for Succulents?
In simple words, eggshells are not just good; they are the best for succulent plants. Although succulents do not require much fertilizer to grow, eggshells are a perfect match for them.
In general, eggshells are rich in magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, potassium, and other essential nutrients for plants. These minerals are highly significant for plant growth and must-haves for every fertilizer.
As a premium fertilizer, eggshells improve the soil’s organic fertility and promote succulents’ sustainable growth. Since they are rich in calcium and phosphorus, people prefer them to help their plants with strength. Moreover, it does not contain nitrogen and is an ideal organic fertilizer for succulent plants.
Despite its importance, it is recommended to use eggshells in small quantities because plants like succulents need a lot of calcium.
Benefits of using Eggshells for Succulents
Using eggshells correctly instead of throwing them away into trash bins is highly beneficial for succulents.
Like humans, plants also require the necessary minerals (Calcium, Magnesium, etc.) for survival and healthy growth. Calcium and phosphorus are required to develop strong roots, whereas magnesium is essential for absorption.
Besides, several other nutrients like potassium are also needed for sustainable living.
Now, organic waste like eggshells which contain all these nutrients in the right amount, makes itself the best fertilizer for succulents.
Works as a good fertilizer
Eggshells are great fertilizers that supply extra calcium for the succulents to grow thicker, bigger, and fuller. They lower soil acidity and make the environment liable for the proper growth of succulent plants. Apart from succulent and cactus, eggshells are quite effective for other fruit-bearing plants.
Kills harmful bacteria
Most importantly, eggshells control bugs. The smell of eggs inside the shell averts insects. Moreover, the sharp edges of the dry shells are very unsafe for the assemblages of slugs and snails.
This is one of the finest ways to keep spiders and bugs out of your garden. Eggshells are common household entities, making quality fertilizer without even hampering our budget.
How to use Eggshells as Fertilizers for Succulents?
Crumbling the shells and spreading them around the plants isn’t the right way of using eggshells as fertilizers. You need to transform them into either of the forms to get the best out of them.
Making eggshell tea
To make eggshell tea, first of all, get a pan of water and boil it. Following this, measure at least 10 eggshells and put them in the oven for approximately 20 minutes. The temperature of the oven should range above 200 F. Moreover, you can even take 20 eggshells if you want a strong brew.
Once done, add the shells to that water and set them aside for the entire night. In the morning, sieve the eggshells and remove the leftover particles. Now this water that remains in the container is known as eggshell tea. This form of fertilizing is beneficial for succulents as they don’t need much calcium but need minerals.
Making eggshell powder
It is much easier to prepare eggshell powder as compared to eggshell tea. In this, you have to rinse the shells properly before initiating the process. Once the shells are dry, crush them into powder using a grinder or a blender.
While crumbling, make the particles as small as possible and mix them properly with your potting. To get the best results, try to do this every two weeks.
How much eggshell powder to use for Succulents?
Although it depends on several factors, a small amount of eggshell powder is generally used for succulents. This is because succulents do not require large amounts of calcium like other fruit-bearing plants.
Hence, experts recommend we mix a bit of eggshell powder while fertilizing the plants, as an excess of calcium may turn fatal.
How to use Eggshells as a pot for Succulents?
Combining your love for food with your passion for gardening is certainly an interesting combination to try out. Instead of using them as fertilizers, eggshells can also serve as mini-pots for succulent plants. Being quick and easy to set, this gardening adds an aesthetic touch to your windowsills and house gardens.
Well, to use eggshells as a pot for succulents, consider the following instructions:
Open the eggshells
Create a small crack at the pointy top of the egg with the back of a butter knife. Be very careful while doing this. Use your fingers to remove the shell pieces from the top unless you have a whole large enough to pour out the yolk.
Clean the broken eggshells
After pouring out the egg’s contents, rinse it gently with warm water and soap. Make sure to do this very carefully and not break the entire shell open. Once done, keep the shells back into the carton to dry.
Fill the eggshells with potting soil
When the shells are dry, take a small and narrow spoon to fill each of them with the potting soil. Fill the shells about ¾ of the whole for proper placement of the plants.
Plant the succulents
Finally, it’s time to add succulents to the pots. To start with it:
- Remove the succulents delicately from their original container.
- Create a small dip in the soil with your finger.
- Slowly fix the roots of the succulents into the dip and then pack its surrounding with the soil.
Maintaining the Succulents in Eggshells
Succulents are the most suitable houseplants, and maintaining them is extremely easy. So, once you are done with the potting of the succulents, immediately sprinkle a light spritz of water on them from a spray bottle.
Besides, try to set the eggshell permanently in a place with great natural sunlight. Further, keep an eye on the succulents for future watering and avoid overwatering. Well, ensure the soil is completely dry before spraying with water again.
Things to consider before using Eggshells for Succulents
There are a few things that you must consider before using eggshells for your succulents. Here I will be mentioning those things in separate headings.
How often should you fertilize succulents with eggshells?
You should not fertilize succulents with eggshells regularly. This is because eggshells are rich in calcium, but succulents do not need much calcium for growth.
Therefore, it is advised to add eggshells every several months or at the beginning of a fresh blooming season. Moreover, experts recommend not to overdo it.
Can you put eggshells on top of the soil?
Although mixing eggshell powder or using eggshell tea is much more beneficial, putting them on top of the soil also works fine. Moreover, clean and dry eggshells can go directly to compost without extra effort.
Are boiled eggshells good for plants?
Yes, boiled eggshells are extremely good for plants because their calcium content is higher than the raw ones. Therefore, using boiled eggshells for a potted plant is certainly a good idea to help your plants with healthy growth and strength.
Are crushed eggshells good for plants?
Yes, crushed eggshells are good for plants, and they make an excellent organic fertilizer at an affordable price. Rich in calcium carbonate, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, they help plants strengthen their cell walls and live sustainable lives.
What is the best way to crush eggshells?
The best way to crush eggshells is by using a spice or coffee grinder. Although you can also use a blender, a grinder is known to make the finest powder. Well, the finer the powder, the better it will mix with the soil.
Do you have to rinse eggshells before composting?
Although it’s not necessary, rinsing the eggshells before composting is a good practice. This is because cleaning them will speed up the breakdown inside the composting bin Or the potting soil. In addition, it is also important to clean the eggshells to avoid attracting insects and animal pests.
Can you put too many eggshells in compost?
No, having a lot of eggshells in your compost pile is not recommended. Doing so will greatly affect the calcium and potassium content of your fertilizer. Moreover, it will also take a huge time to break down completely when too many eggshells are left on the ground.
Can I mix eggshells and coffee grounds?
You can mix eggshells and coffee grounds to prepare a healthy snack for your plants. Although considered trash, the punch of calcium and nitrogen they offer is largely beneficial for plant growth.
According to a Los Angeles compost report, mixing eggshells with coffee grounds is an incredible mix for compost piles.
Frequently Asked Questions (fAQs)
Do succulents like eggshells and coffee grounds?
Eggshells are the favorite feed of succulents. However, coffee grounds aren’t that suitable for them when potted in eggshells.
You can still use coffee grounds if you have planted the succulents in your garden. Then they will add nitrogen to the soil, an essential nutrient for succulents.
How do you store eggshells for fertilizer?
No special maintenance is required for the eggshells that would be used for making fertilizer. So, you can keep the broken shells in the fridge unless you take them out for crushing and composting.
Do eggshells attract rats?
Yes, eggshells are known to attract rats. As rich in calcium and organic materials, eggshells, when left in compost, attract rodents to the garden. Therefore, washing them thoroughly yet gently before composting them is advised.
How long do ground eggshells last?
Ground eggshells are known to last for at least 3-4 months when prepared properly. You must store the eggshell powder in an airtight container and keep it in a cool and dry place.
However, when kept in a moist place, the powder won’t last long as fungi and bacteria might start growing on it.
Conclusion
Even if succulents don’t need much, eggshells are fertilizers that are an excellent source of calcium. Apart from calcium, it consists of every nutrient essential for a plant’s growth.
Well, the only thing you should consider before using them is sanitation, as the egg residue attracts insects and rodents. Furthermore, you can readily use them in more than one form to make your home gardening successful.
