How to Use Egg Shells As Fertilizer for Tomato Plants

Add crushed egg shells to tomato plants to fertilize the soil and keep the tomatoes healthy.

Rather than spending money on fertilizers for tomato plants, you can make your own at home with egg shells. Egg shells will add nutrients like calcium to the soil to keep your tomato plants healthy. The calcium carbonate in egg shells is similar to the common soil additive lime. Calcium aids in the growth of the plants by balancing the pH level of highly acidic soil. Organic fertilizers like egg shells are also eco-friendly and help reduce waste in landfills.

Things You'll Need

• Airtight container
• Food processor
• Plastic storage bag
• Rolling pin
• Cultivator

Instructions

1. Rinse the egg shells under cold water and place them on a towel to dry completely. Store them in an airtight container until you are ready to add them to the tomatoes.

2. Place the egg shells in a food processor. Crush the shells with the pulse setting on the food processor until they have a fine texture. If you do not have a food processor, place the shells in a plastic storage bag and crush them with a rolling pin.

3. Sprinkle 1 cup of egg shells over the soil around the base of the tomato plant. Work the shells into the soil with a cultivator, but avoid touching the roots. Water the soil to moisten it.

References

• Gardening Tips Idea: Homemade Tomato Fertilizer
• University of Tennessee: Master Gardeners of Hamilton County: Homemade Fertilizers
• Veggie Gardener: 8 Unusual Items for Fertilizing Tomatoes