Remember the American Egg Board's "Incredible Edible Egg" commercials? Though there's lots to love about an egg, it turns out the shells are actually the incredible part. They can be used for a variety of different garden uses, among other purposes. Here are some of my favorite uses for eggshells.
What's inside is good, but what's outside is even better. Flickr photo by DonutGirl.
Fertilizer
Did you know that eggshells are predominately made of calcium carbonate -- the active ingredient in lime -- as well as other nutrients for plants? Eggshells make a great natural fertilizer of sorts. Whether you break the shells up and sprinkle them on top of a plant, or mix a few into potting soil, your plant will thank you.
Coffee Or Tea Stain Remover
Do you have a cup or travel mug that has been stained by your favorite warm beverage? Grind up some eggshells and drop them in the drinkware filled with warm water. Let it sit over night, and the egg shell will absorb the stain.
Seed Starter
Remember how we said that egg shells make great fertilizer? Use egg shells to start seeds. Fill the egg shell half with soil and the seed, then plant directly into the ground (or into the pot). As the plant develops and the shell breaks down, it provides the seedling with plenty of nutrients.
Sidewalk Chalk
For whatever reason, everyone loves drawing on the sidewalk (or driveway) with chalk. Did you know that you can use egg shells as part of the recipe for an easy-to-make sidewalk chalk? Suite 101 has a really simple recipe that you can make with your kids.
Slug Repellant
Summertime is slug time. If you don't want them around your garden (and who does?) simply sprinkle crushed eggshells around gardens and pathways. Slugs won't cross the crunchy barrier.
Do you know of any great ideas for repurposing eggshells? Tell us, in the comments! And for more great tips, check out previous installments of "5 Uses For..." in the slideshow below.
