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Are Egg Shells Good for Orchids?

Published in Orchid Nutrition 2 mins read

Yes, eggshells can be beneficial for specific types of orchids, particularly terrestrial orchids planted outdoors, when prepared correctly.

Utilizing Eggshells for Orchid Health

Eggshells offer a natural way to supplement nutrients for certain orchids, primarily providing calcium, which is vital for cell wall development and overall plant vigor. However, their application is not universal for all orchid types or growing conditions.

Recommended Use for Terrestrial Orchids

Based on expert guidance, eggshells are explicitly recommended for use with terrestrial orchids cultivated outdoors. This distinction is crucial, as the growing environment and the orchid's natural habitat influence how it absorbs nutrients and interacts with its potting medium.

Preparation Method

When using eggshells for these specific orchid types, the method of preparation is key to ensuring their effectiveness:

  • Do not crush them into a fine powder.
  • Instead, leave them coarsely crushed. This allows for a more gradual release of nutrients and may contribute to better aeration or drainage in the soil mix.

The following table summarizes the recommended application:

Orchid Type Location Eggshell Preparation
Terrestrial Orchids Planted Outdoors Coarsely Crushed

Important Considerations

While eggshells can be a useful amendment, it's essential to understand that this specific recommendation applies to terrestrial orchids planted outdoors. The video reference highlights this particular scenario for their effective use. For other orchid types, such as epiphytic orchids, or those grown indoors, the suitability and preparation method for eggshells may differ or might not be recommended.