How to Plant Seeds in an Egg Shell

Recycle egg shells into seedling pots.

Growing seeds indoors is an inexpensive way to add new plants to your spring and summer garden. Most annuals and some perennials are easily started from seed in late winter and early spring. While a variety of seed starting systems and pots are available, using the materials you already have lying around save money. Egg shells make suitable individual seed pots. Once the plants are ready for the garden, plant the seedling, egg shell and all, into the bed. The shell breaks down quickly in the soil, adding nutrients to the plant as it does so.

Things You'll Need

• Eggs
• Pin
• Bowl
• Egg carton
• Soil
• Seeds

Instructions

1. Shake the eggs vigorously prior to breaking. Shaking breaks up the yolk inside.

2. Poke a hole in both ends of the egg with a straight pin. Widen the hole on the narrow end of the egg to about half the diameter of a pencil. Hold the wide end of the egg to your mouth and blow the contents out of the egg and into a bowl. Save the egg for breakfast or other meals.

3. Widen the hole on the narrow end of the egg further, removing most of the top third of the egg. Set the egg into an empty egg carton with the open end of the egg facing up.

4. Fill the egg with potting soil. Water the soil until it is moist throughout.

5. Sow one to two seeds per egg. Plant the seeds at a depth twice that their width or follow the planting depth recommendation on the seed packet.

6. Place the egg carton in a warm area. Water the soil if it begins to dry, keeping it moist at all times. Most seedlings emerge in seven to 14 days after sowing.

Tips & Warnings

• Verify seed needs for the particular plant variety. Some seeds require dark to germinate while others require sunlight.

References

• Colorado State Extension: Plant Projects with Kids
• Ohio State University: Plant Propagation