As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can provide you with some insights on the topic of whether tomatoes like eggshells. Eggshells can indeed be beneficial for tomatoes, although they are unlikely to have a major impact on soil calcium levels.
One of the main reasons why eggshells can be beneficial for tomatoes is because they are a good source of calcium. Calcium is an essential nutrient for tomatoes as it plays a crucial role in the development of strong cell walls and overall plant health. Calcium deficiency in tomatoes can lead to blossom end rot, a common disorder where the bottom of the fruit becomes dark and mushy.
By incorporating crushed eggshells into the soil, you can provide an additional source of calcium for your tomato plants. However, it’s important to note that while eggshells do contain calcium, it is not in a form that is readily available for immediate plant uptake. The calcium in eggshells is primarily composed of calcium carbonate, which needs to be broken down by soil microorganisms before it can be absorbed by plants.
To prepare eggshells for use in your garden, you can start by collecting them and allowing them to dry out thoroughly. Once dry, you can crush them into smaller pieces using a mortar and pestle or a blender. It’s a good idea to crush them into fine particles to speed up the decomposition process.
You can then incorporate the crushed eggshells into the soil around your tomato plants. Digging them into the soil or simply sprinkling them on the surface are both effective methods. Over time, the eggshells will break down and release calcium into the soil, making it more available for the tomato plants.
Another way to utilize eggshells in your garden is by composting them. Adding crushed eggshells to your compost pile can help improve its calcium content. As the eggshells decompose, the calcium will become more accessible to plants when the compost is used as a soil amendment.
While eggshells can provide some calcium to tomato plants, it’s important to note that they are not a quick fix for severe calcium deficiencies. If your soil is severely lacking in calcium, it may be necessary to consider other sources or amendments to address the issue effectively.
While tomatoes can benefit from the addition of eggshells due to their calcium content, their impact on soil calcium levels is unlikely to be significant. Incorporating crushed eggshells into the soil or composting them can be a good way to provide a slow-release source of calcium and organic matter for your tomato plants.
