How to Make an Eggshell Tea Fertilizer for Plantse

Instructions:

1. Collect Eggshells:
   • Save eggshells from your kitchen by rinsing them after cracking eggs. Allow them to air dry completely to prevent mold growth.
2. Crush Eggshells:
   • Once dry, crush the eggshells into smaller pieces. You can use a mortar and pestle, a food processor, or simply crush them with your hands. The goal is to break them into small, manageable pieces.
3. Soak Eggshells:
   • Place the crushed eggshells in a large container or jar. Cover them with water. The ratio of eggshells to water is not critical, but aim for approximately 10 parts water to 1 part eggshells.
   • Close the lid and let the eggshells soak in the water for at least 24 hours, or up to a week. This allows the water to extract the nutrients from the eggshells.
4. Strain the Mixture:
   • After soaking, strain the eggshell tea to remove the solids. Use a fine mesh strainer, cheesecloth, or even a coffee filter to separate the liquid from the eggshell pieces.
   • Compost the leftover eggshell fragments or discard them in your trash.
5. Application:
   • Dilute the eggshell tea with water before using it to fertilize your plants. The dilution ratio can vary depending on the strength of your tea and the sensitivity of your plants, but a typical ratio is 1 part eggshell tea to 4 parts water.
   • Pour the diluted eggshell tea directly onto the soil around your plants. Avoid getting the mixture on the leaves, as it can cause burning in some cases.
6. Repeat as Needed:
   • Use the eggshell tea fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season to provide a steady supply of calcium and other nutrients to your plants.
   • Monitor your plants for any signs of nutrient deficiencies or excesses and adjust your fertilization schedule accordingly.

Additional Tips:

• Crush the eggshells finely: Finely crushed eggshells release their nutrients more effectively than large chunks.
• Use as a soil amendment: You can also mix crushed eggshells directly into the soil as a slow-release calcium supplement.
• Combine with other fertilizers: Eggshell tea can be used in conjunction with other organic fertilizers to provide a well-rounded nutrient boost to your plants.

Making eggshell tea fertilizer is an eco-friendly way to recycle kitchen waste while providing valuable nutrients to your plants. Give it a try and watch your plants thrive!