Anthuriums are prized for their striking, waxy blooms and deep green leaves, adding a touch of elegance and color to any indoor space. While they are relatively low-maintenance, many plant lovers find it challenging to keep them blooming consistently. The secret to healthy, thriving anthuriums might be simpler than expected—and it’s probably sitting in your kitchen right now: eggshells.
Eggshells are a natural and effective way to boost plant health. Rich in calcium and other trace minerals, they help improve soil quality, strengthen root systems, and even ward off certain pests. When used properly, eggshells can enhance your anthurium’s overall vitality and encourage lush growth and more frequent flowering.
Why Eggshells Benefit Anthuriums
Eggshells are primarily composed of calcium carbonate, the same ingredient found in agricultural lime. Calcium plays a vital role in plant cell structure and helps regulate key growth processes. In flowering plants like anthuriums, a steady supply of calcium can support stronger stems, better leaf development, and a more robust root system.
In addition to calcium, eggshells contain small amounts of magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium—all essential nutrients for plant health. Unlike synthetic fertilizers, eggshells release their nutrients slowly, feeding your plant over time and improving the long-term condition of the soil.
How to Prepare and Use Eggshells for Anthuriums
Using eggshells in your plant care routine is simple, eco-friendly, and cost-effective. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Collect and Clean
Save the eggshells after cooking or baking. Rinse them thoroughly under water to remove any egg white or yolk residue, which can attract pests or create unpleasant odors. Let the shells dry completely—either by air drying or placing them in a low oven (around 200°F or 90°C) for 10–15 minutes.
Step 2: Crush or Grind
Once dry, crush the eggshells into small pieces using your hands, a rolling pin, or a blender for a finer powder. The smaller the pieces, the faster they will break down in the soil and release nutrients to your plant.
Step 3: Apply to Soil
There are a few easy ways to use eggshells with your anthuriums:
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Top Dressing: Sprinkle the crushed eggshells over the surface of the soil around the base of the plant. This will allow rain or watering to gradually leach the nutrients into the soil.
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Soil Mix Booster: When repotting your anthurium, mix the crushed eggshells directly into the potting soil. This gives the plant’s roots immediate access to the minerals.
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