Easter Eggshell Planters: A Cute, Compostable Spring Craft

Easter means eggs—dyed, displayed, hidden. Turn eggshells into tiny planters for a charming, biodegradable holiday craft.

Timing

Easter dates vary (2015: Apr 5; 2016: Mar 27; 2017: Apr 16; 2018: Apr 1; 2019: Apr 16). Start 2–3 weeks ahead for seed germination.

How to Make Them

1. Empty shells: Tap ⅔ up from pointed end with blunt knife. Remove small cap, pour egg into bowl (save for cooking). Rinse shells thoroughly with diluted bleach or dish soap to avoid salmonella.
2. Optional dye: Use natural dyes (onion skins, beets, turmeric) or store-bought. Brown shells have a rustic "whole wheat" look.
3. Fill: Use pre-moistened, well-drained potting mix (no drainage holes). Keep mix fine—no lumps or twigs.
4. Plant: Fast germinators: grass, watercress, radish. Or transplant tiny thyme/savory seedlings. Display in egg carton or basket with caps nearby as "lids."
5. Personalize: Write guest names with white crayon for place cards.

After Easter, plant the whole shell in the garden—it composts naturally. Adorable, eco-friendly, and delicious if you cook the eggs!

(Editor's Note: Publication date not specified. Comments welcome.)