Egg Shell Fertilizer: 4 Benefits of Eggshell Fertilizer

Egg shell fertilizer, or eggshell fertilizer, is made from crushed eggshells, which are high in [calcium](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-add-calcium-to-soil) carbonate, a crucial mineral for strengthening plants’ cell walls. The shells also contain other minerals that help plants grow, including potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium. [Eggshells](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/eggshells-in-garden-guide) are, therefore, an effective and inexpensive fertilizer for outdoor garden soil and houseplants. Eggshells can benefit plants in the following ways: 1. __Eggshells lower soil acidity__. Many types of plants prefer low acidity in the soil to absorb nutrients and ward off toxic elements like aluminum. The calcium carbonate in eggshells lowers [soil pH](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-adjust-soil-ph-to-help-your-garden-thrive) levels, making the soil more alkaline than acidic. 2. __Eggshells discourage blossom-end rot__. Certain plants, like tomato plants, will develop black spots on the ends of their fruit due to calcium deficiency. Adding calcium from eggshell fertilizer can help fruiting plants thrive and avoid [blossom-end rot](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-prevent-blossom-end-rot-on-fruits). 3. __Eggshells control pests__. The lingering smell of eggs inside the shell wards off deer, while the sharp edges of dry, crushed shells are hazardous for the soft bodies of snails and slugs. 4. __Eggshells encourage root growth__. The calcium carbonate in eggshells helps to strengthen a plant’s roots so it can grow faster and stronger. Simply crush clean, dry eggshells into a fine powder. Add the powdered eggshells to boiling water, then cover and store the mixture for one week, uncovering it only once daily to stir it. After seven days, pour the mixture directly into the soil above the plant’s roots. Eggshell fertilizer will benefit many plants, although not all plants. Eggshell fertilizer can help fruit-bearing species and vegetables, such as apples, strawberries, lettuce, cucumbers, and eggplants. It will also boost certain flowers (perennials and annuals), such as roses and chrysanthemums. Eggshell fertilizer is good for succulents, but it lacks [nitrogen](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-nitrogen-fixing-plants-enrich-the-soil), which some succulents might require. On the other hand, the extra calcium in eggshell fertilizer will harm to certain outdoor and indoor plants. It can cause disease in geraniums, violets, azaleas, and other [acid-loving plants](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/acid-loving-plants). Avoid using eggshell fertilizer on cabbage, beans, and spinach. You can make eggshell fertilizer using a few different methods. 1. __Crush the eggshells__. Wash and rinse eggshells and let them dry. Crush the eggshells into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle, rolling pin, or food processor. Be sure to wear a mask while crushing the shells to avoid breathing in any eggshell dust. Stir the eggshell powder into your flower bed, indoor plant’s potting mix, or vegetable garden’s soil. 2. __Grind the eggshells__. In the absence of a food processor or manual tools, you can use a coffee grinder to turn eggshells into powder. Add the ground eggshells to your compost bin to make [mulch](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-mulch-your-vegetable-garden) or pour them directly into your planting holes. Many master gardeners add [coffee grounds](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/coffee-grounds-in-garden-explained), which are rich in nitrogen and potassium, to eggshell fertilizer for even more of a nutrient boost. 3. __Steep the eggshells__. You can use eggshells to make a fertilizer tea that will add liquid calcium to your garden. Boil a gallon of water and add ten to twenty clean, dry eggshells. Let the shells sit in the water overnight, then strain them out. Pour two cups of liquid onto each plant. Repeat the eggshell tea process every two weeks. Grow your own garden with Ron Finley, the self-described "Gangster Gardener." Get the [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com/) and learn how to cultivate fresh herbs and vegetables, keep your house plants alive, and use compost to make your community - and the world - a better place. Egg shell fertilizer provides important nutrients to plants and vegetables. Learn easy DIY tips for making your own eggshell fertilizer.