In the olden days, before people bought seeding trays and little peat pots at the nursery, folks sometimes planted seeds in eggshells. This idea actually has some really good things about it.
1. eggshells are free.
2. planting in eggshells adds good nutrients to the soil, strengthening the little plant.
Starting seeds in eggshells now, for later planting in the garden, is so easy a child can do it. As a matter of fact, this makes a good kid project. And isn’t that why we have kids? To create our own private workforce?
Pardon while the Damsel attempts to stop laughing hysterically.
Begin by cutting off the top of the eggshell, fairly close to the top. The Damsel used a sharp, slightly serrated knife, and got it started by gently whacking the knife into the eggshell. Then she carefully cut with a sawing motion until the top was cut off. Your mileage may vary.
Pour the egg into something to reserve for another use. You can wash out the eggshell now if you like, but it’s not necessary. The Damsel just HAD to because of the goober factor.
Poke a few drainage holes in the bottom with a straight pin or some such.
Fill the egg with potting soil and add water until the soil is nice and damp. Plant one or two seeds, your choice, according to the depth the seed packet specifies. (After the sprouts come up, choose the strongest to be the Chosen One. Ruthlessly pull the other one out.)
Set the egg in a nice warm spot, using an egg carton or a ring of paper for it to sit in for stabilization.
Now here’s the cool part…when the sprout is big enough to plant outside (and the weather is right) you can plant it as is, egg and all, into the garden. Some folks say to crush the eggshell a little in your hands right before you plant it, to make sure the roots can make their way out. The eggshell will add nutrients to the soil and your little seedling will be off to a great start.
