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Did You Know
Rethink Throwing Away Those Eggshells
Some of us may be in full spring cleaning mode. The rest of us – well, we’ll get there; eventually. But there’s one item most of us don’t think twice about tossing: eggshells. Step away from the trashcan, and try one of these ways to reuse those shells.
Fertilizer
Did you know the eggshell is composed of mostly calcium carbonate? Similar to humans, calcium is vital to building “bones” – the walls of a plant. First, rinse the inner membrane of the eggshell. After dry, store them in a secure container. When you’re ready to hit the soil, mash the shells down to small pieces with a wooden spoon or mixer and then till them into the soil. In addition to supplying your plants with calcium, eggshells will also reduce the acidity of your soil and act as a natural repellant for slugs and snails.
Plants that benefit from crushed eggshellsBird Feed
Just like humans and plants, birds also benefit from calcium; female birds especially benefit as they need extra prior to and after laying their own eggs. To make bird food, line eggshells on a baking sheet and bake them at around 250 degrees until dry. Then crush them into fine bits with your favorite seed and either place in a feeder or spread on the ground.
Seed Starter
Not only is an eggshell great to spread in your garden, it is also the perfect starter home for your seeds. After cracking your eggs, preserve the deeper shell halves. To sterilize, place them in an oven for 30 minute at about 200 degrees or boil them. {Remember to save your egg carton as well.}
Once the shells have dried, poke a hole in the bottom of each using a sharp needle or tool. This will allow for water drainage. Place an eggshell in each carton portion; fill each shell with soil. Place seeds into the soil, according to the packaging. Give each shell a drink of water and place in an area with plenty of sunlight. Once you’ve spotted sprouts, it’s time to transfer them into a pot or your garden. The great part – you plant them, egg and all, right into the soil!
Mellow Out Your Cup of Joe
The calcium in eggshells saves the day, once again. If your cup of joe is tasting too acidic or bitter, try adding crumbled eggshells. One eggshell is good for a small pot of coffee, about four servings or less. Two shells works with four or more servings. Add the crushed shells directly to the coffee grounds and brew the coffee as normal. Enjoy!
Tip: Make sure to use fresh, raw eggshells. Do not use shells from boiled eggs – cooked eggs release sulfur compounds which can transfer into the shell and flavor of the coffee.
Clean Your Thermos
Metal thermos is a wonderful beverage container, but the brown film leftover isn’t so appealing. The solution for removal – you guessed it: eggshells! Fill about half of your thermos with a mixture of warm water and crushed eggshells; close thermos and give shake well for a minute or two. The mixture should help break down those stubborn stains.