Eggshells: The Natural Secret to Bigger, Healthier Lavender This Spring
Lavender, cherished for its calming fragrance and striking purple flowers, is a staple in many British gardens. This spring, you can give your plants a remarkable boost with a simple, natural ingredient found in most kitchens: eggshells.
Accidental Discovery Leads to Gardening Breakthrough
Jean, founder of Green Jeane and a passionate gardening enthusiast, made an unexpected discovery while tending to her herbs. She accidentally used an unsuitable sandy mix in the soil but noticed her lavender was thriving regardless. The key factor was the addition of eggshells she had mixed into the soil.
"The lavender also had some of that old sandy mix but also lots of eggshells mixed in, so it was doing much better and I didn't bother to remove the sand when repotting it," Jean explained. "I'm amazed at how much bigger and healthier the lavender looks!"
Why Eggshells Work Wonders for Lavender
While it might seem unusual, eggshells are packed with calcium, which strengthens plant cell walls and promotes robust growth. They also enhance soil drainage, preventing lavender from becoming waterlogged—a common issue that can stunt development.
Lavender flourishes in neutral to slightly alkaline soil conditions. Eggshells help reduce soil acidity, making them an ideal, natural amendment for these plants. Jean recommends them as a straightforward, eco-friendly method to nourish lavenders and enrich their soil, though she notes that collecting enough shells requires patience.
"My favourite amendment to lighten soil is simply dried and crushed eggshells. I like using Perlite, but it's very dusty and of course you have to buy it," Jean shared. "The only downside to using eggshells is that you have to be patient and save up a lot (or eat lots of eggs!) but I don't repot that often, so I usually have just enough."
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Eggshells as Lavender Feed
- Rinse Thoroughly: After cooking, rinse eggshells to remove any leftover yolk or membrane. This prevents odours and deters pests.
- Dry Completely: Allow the shells to air-dry for a day or two to ensure they are moisture-free.
- Bake for Sterilisation: Place the shells on a baking tray and bake at 200°C for 10-15 minutes to dry them out further and eliminate bacteria.
- Crush into Fragments: Use a rolling pin or similar tool to grind the baked shells into fine pieces. This speeds up decomposition, allowing lavender to absorb nutrients more efficiently.
Additional Benefits: Pest Control and Moderation
The spiky texture of crushed eggshells acts as a natural deterrent against garden pests like slugs, snails, and other insects, providing an extra layer of protection for your lavender plants.
Application is simple: use only one to two tablespoons of crushed eggshells per lavender plant. Feed them once in spring and again in summer for optimal results. Remember to apply natural fertilisers in moderation, as excessive nutrients can lead to over-fertilisation and potentially damage the plant's roots.
Investing a small amount of time in preparing dried, crushed eggshells can significantly enhance the health of your lavender plants, improve soil quality, and keep pests at bay. This natural approach ensures your blooms flourish vibrantly throughout the spring and summer seasons, making your garden a fragrant, colourful haven.
