How to Use Clam Shells As Gravel

Clam shells can be reused as a suitable substitute for gravel.

Clam shells can be effectively used as a natural substitute for gravel. It is commonly used as aquarium bedding, where it can be used in place of gravel or glass beads. It is also frequently used to provide drainage around plant beds, bird baths or other outdoor landscaping. Using clam shells as a substitute for gravel is very simple, and can be done as a do-it-yourself project by anyone, regardless of their construction experience.

Things You'll Need

• 1 Cup bleach
• 1 Gallon water
• Rubber gloves
• Tarp
• Hammer
• Bucket

Instructions

1. Obtain enough clam shells to fill the area that you are working in. Saving shells after consumption is one way to obtain them. You can also inquire at local seafood restaurants about obtaining discarded shells. Thoroughly wash and rinse each shell if you have to save them up over time.

2. Wash and bleach the clam shells. Wash the clam shells to remove any dirt or debris, then place them in a solution of one cup of bleach mixed into one gallon of water. Wear thick rubber gloves when working with this solution. Soak the clam shells in the solution for 15 minutes, then rinse under clean water and allow them to dry in the sun. Repeat bleaching as many times as is necessary to obtain the desired color.

3. Crush the clam shells. Lay a tarp or large sheet of plastic on the ground. Spread the shells out and evenly distribute them across one half of the plastic, then fold the other half over the top. Use a hammer to crush the shells, swinging with about the same force you would use to break a thin glass dinner plate.

4. Pour the crushed shells into a bucket. Grab the tarp by the corners so that you can lift it without spilling any of the crushed shells. Hold the front two corners in one hand and the back two corners in the other hand. This will allow you to tilt the tarp, pouring the crushed clam shells out one end and into a bucket. Using a bucket makes it easier to transport the shells to the area where they are needed.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't want to go through the trouble of cleaning and crushing your own shells, you can purchase pre-crushed clam shells that are ready to be used as gravel. They are typically found in the garden supply sections of home improvement stores, and come in 25 pound and 50 pound bags.

References

• "Stone, Rock and Gravel: Natural Features for Modern Gardens" by Kathryn Bradley-Hole (2001)
• Sprecialist Aggregates: Crushed Shell - Natural Oyster