Are Eggshells Good for Succulents?

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Succulents are known for their ability to thrive in a wide range of environments. These low-maintenance plants have become popular due to their unique appearance and ability to survive with minimal watering.

However, even the toughest succulent needs nutrients to grow and thrive.

Eggshells are a rich source of calcium and other minerals that are essential for plant growth. But the question is, are eggshells good for succulents?

Answer is yes.

Eggshells are an excellent natural fertilizer for succulents and can give several benefits. When you crush eggshells and add them to the soil, they slowly release calcium, potassium, and other minerals into the soil, which helps in the plant’s growth and overall health. 

Moreover, eggshells can improve the soil’s structure, allowing for better drainage and aeration, which is vital for your succulent plant growth.

Myths about using Eggshells in the garden

are eggshells good for succulents

Eggshells have long been considered a useful and natural fertilizer for plants. However, there are several myths surrounding the use of eggshells in the garden-

Myth 1 – Eggshells attract pests

One of the most widespread myths about eggshells is that they attract pests to your garden. However, this is not entirely true. Eggshells do not attract pests directly, but they can provide a hiding place for slugs and snails.

Myth 2 – Eggshells are an instant source of calcium

Another common myth is that eggshells provide an instant source of calcium to plants. However, eggshells take a long time to break down and release their nutrients into the soil. This means that they are not an instant source of calcium but rather a slow-release fertilizer. 

Myth 3 – Eggshells Keep Slugs and Snails Away

The idea behind this myth is that the sharp edges of the crushed eggshells will deter slugs and snails from crawling over them. While it’s true that slugs and snails can cause significant damage to plants, using eggshells as a deterrent may not be as effective as some believe.

Myth 4 – Eggshells can prevent blossom end rot

One popular myth is that eggshells can prevent blossom end rot by providing a natural source of calcium to the plants.

While it is true that eggshells contain calcium, they may not be the most effective solution for preventing blossom end rot. In fact, eggshells alone may not provide enough calcium for the plants to absorb, especially if the soil pH is not within the proper range.

Also Read: Are Worm Castings Good for Succulents?

What are the Benefits of Eggshells for Succulents?

One of the main benefits of using eggshells is that they are rich in calcium. Calcium is a vital nutrient for succulents as it helps to promote healthy cell growth and strengthens the cell walls, making the plant more resistant to disease and pests.

Calcium can also help to regulate the pH balance of the soil, which is necessary for optimal succulent growth.

Another benefit of using eggshells is that they are a slow-release fertilizer. As the eggshells break down over time, they release nutrients into the soil slowly.

This means that your succulents will receive a steady supply of nutrients without the risk of over-fertilization, which can be harmful to their growth.

Eggshells are also an environmentally friendly fertilizer option. Instead of throwing away eggshells, you can give them a new purpose in your garden. This can help to reduce waste and give your succulents a natural source of nutrients.

Are Eggshells Good for Succulents?

If you’re a succulent lover, you may be wondering if eggshells are a good fertilizer for your plants. 

  • Eggshells are an excellent source of calcium, which is an essential nutrient for succulents.
  • Calcium helps to strengthen the cell walls and promote healthy cell growth.
  • Eggshells are also a slow-release fertilizer, meaning that nutrients are released gradually over time, providing your succulents with a steady supply without the risk of over-fertilization.
  • Using eggshells as a fertilizer is an eco-friendly option that can help reduce waste.
  • Before adding eggshells to your soil, crush them to help them break down more quickly and release their nutrients more efficiently.
  • It’s also a good idea to mix eggshells with other fertilizers and to monitor your succulents for signs of nutrient deficiencies.
  • Incorporating eggshells into your succulent care routine can provide many benefits, from providing a source of calcium to being an eco-friendly option.
  • Just be sure to crush them before use and monitor your plants for any nutrient deficiencies.

Read on this: Is Coconut Coir Good for Succulents?

How Often to Fertilize Succulents?

Succulents are popular plants that can be relatively low-maintenance, but they still need proper care to thrive. One essential part of succulent care is fertilizing.

Succulents have different nutrient needs compared to other plants. They have adapted to survive in harsh conditions with low-nutrient soil. This means that they don’t need as much fertilizer as other plants, and over-fertilizing can actually harm them.

Normally, succulents only need to be fertilized once or twice a year, during their active growth period. If you are using homemade manure tea, then fertilize your succulents once a month.

For most species, this is in the spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing during their dormant period, which is usually in the fall and winter.

When choosing a fertilizer for your succulents, it’s important to choose one that is formulated specifically for succulents. These fertilizers are typically low in nitrogen and high in phosphorus and potassium, which are the nutrients that succulents need most.

You can choose a universal fertilizer intended for your succulents. However, use a lower concentration than what’s recommended on the packaging to avoid over-fertilizing your succulents. Another option is to make your own natural fertilizer at home like manure tea.

How to Use Eggshells for Succulents?

Eggshells can be a great natural source of calcium for your succulents. To use them effectively, first clean and dry the eggshells.

Afterwards, you can break them down into tiny pieces or powder. You can then sprinkle the crushed eggshells around the base of your succulents, or mix them into the soil.

Be sure to not add too many eggshells, as this can cause a calcium build-up in the soil which can harm the plants.

Another way to use eggshells for succulents is to make an eggshell tea. To do this, boil a few eggshells in a pot of water for around 5-10 minutes.

Let the mixture cool, then strain the eggshells out. The resulting liquid can then be used to water your succulents. This eggshell tea can provide calcium as well as other nutrients that can benefit your succulents.

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How to add eggshells to cactus soil?

You can add eggshells to cactus soil by crushing them into small pieces or powder. You can then sprinkle the crushed eggshells around the base of your succulents, or mix them into the soil.

Another way to use eggshells for succulents is to make an eggshell tea. Boil a few eggshells in a pot of water for around 5-10 minutes. Let the mixture cool overnight, then strain the eggshells out. The resulting liquid can then be used to water your succulents. 

Are eggshells enough to fertilize succulents?

While eggshells can provide some beneficial nutrients to succulents, they are not enough to fully fertilize the plants.

Eggshells can provide a natural source of calcium, which is important for healthy plant growth, but they do not contain the full range of nutrients that succulents need to thrive.

Important Tips while using Eggshells for Succulents

If you’re planning to use eggshells for your succulents, there are a few important tips to keep in mind –

Clean and crush the eggshells – Before using eggshells in your succulent soil, make sure they’re clean and free of any egg remains. You can do this by rinsing them with water and letting them dry completely.

Use them in moderation – While eggshells can provide some beneficial nutrients to your succulents, don’t overdo it. Too much calcium can actually be harmful to plants, so it’s recommended to use eggshells in moderation.

Mix with soil – When adding eggshells to your succulent soil, it’s best to mix them in thoroughly so that they’re evenly distributed.

Conclusion

Eggshells for succulents can be a useful and cost-effective way to provide essential nutrients to your plants. Eggshells are a natural source of calcium, which is vital for succulents to grow healthy and strong.

However, remember that eggshells alone may not provide all the necessary nutrients that succulents need. Using them in combination with other fertilizers or organic matter can help create a balanced soil environment that supports healthy growth.

By taking these tips, you can give your succulents the best care they need to thrive.