She Strengthens

Unlock the Power of Your Morning Routine for a Thriving Garden

Fresh Air, Exercise, and a Side of Veggies

Gardening has become a popular hobby, and for good reason. Not only does it provide an opportunity to get some exercise and fresh air, but it’s also a great way to teach kids about biology and, of course, enjoy the fruits of your labor.

The Circle of Life: From Trash to Treasure

As you tend to your garden, you can create a sustainable cycle by repurposing everyday items like eggshells and coffee grounds as compost. But why do these unlikely heroes make such effective fertilizers?

The Nutrient Boost Your Plants Need

According to experts, soil alone is not enough to support plant growth. It needs supplemental sources of nutrients, which is where coffee grounds and eggshells come in. These humble ingredients provide a potent mix of nitrogen and calcium, essential for healthy plant growth.

Nitrogen-Rich Coffee Grounds: The Perfect Brew

Coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen, a key component of fertilizer. By brewing your coffee, you release more nitrogen, making it a perfect addition to your compost. Plus, brewing neutralizes any acidic qualities that could harm your plants.

Eggshells: A Calcium-Rich Bonus

Eggshells are a rich source of calcium, another crucial ingredient in fertilizer. This is especially important for plants like tomatoes and peppers, which can suffer from calcium deficiency.

The Mulch Effect: Protecting and Nourishing Your Soil

Used coffee grounds and eggshells also make excellent mulch, protecting your soil from the sun and retaining water for your plants’ roots. Over time, they break down, feeding beneficial soil microbes.

Putting it All Together

To get started, you’ll need a container with a wide mouth and a sturdy lid. Rinse and dry your eggshells, then crush them and store them in the container. Let your coffee grounds dry out before adding them to the mix. Combine the two, crush the eggshells further, and sprinkle the mixture across your soil bed.

The Key to Success: Balance and Moderation

Remember not to overdo it – too much fertilizer can overwhelm your plants. Aim for a half-inch layer, covered with a thicker layer of organic mulch like wood chips. Repeat the process every few months or at the start of a new growing season.

The Bottom Line: Turning Trash into Treasure

By repurposing eggshells and coffee grounds, you can create a nutrient-rich compost that will help your plants thrive. It’s a simple, inexpensive way to give your garden the boost it needs, and it’s a great way to reduce waste and live more sustainably.