### 8. Wood Ashes

Wood ashes from untreated hardwoods contain calcium carbonate and other minerals.

* Sprinkle lightly around plants.
* Use cautiously, as ashes raise soil pH.
* Test soil pH first to avoid imbalance.

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### 9. Milk or Dairy Water

Milk contains calcium and can be diluted and used as a foliar spray.

* Mix 1 part milk with 10 parts water.
* Spray leaves to provide calcium and prevent fungal diseases.

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### 10. Compost Rich in Calcium

Add calcium-rich materials like eggshells, bone meal, and wood ashes to your compost pile.

* Well-balanced compost feeds tomatoes with calcium and other nutrients.
* Improves soil texture and moisture retention.

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## How to Know If Your Tomatoes Need More Calcium

Signs of calcium deficiency in tomato plants include:

* Blossom-end rot (dark, sunken spots on fruit bottoms).
* Leaf curling or spotting.
* Stunted growth or wilting.
* Weak stems.

If you see these, a calcium boost may be needed.

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## Tips for Maximizing Calcium Uptake in Tomato Plants

* **Maintain consistent soil moisture:** Calcium uptake is hindered by drought or uneven watering.
* **Avoid excessive nitrogen:** Too much nitrogen encourages foliage over fruit, increasing calcium demand.
* **Mulch around plants:** Helps retain moisture and regulates temperature.
* **Test your soil:** Regular soil testing helps monitor calcium and pH levels.

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## Eggshells and Beyond: Sustainable Gardening Practices

Using natural calcium sources like eggshells ties into sustainable gardening:

* Reduces waste.
* Avoids synthetic chemicals.
* Supports soil life and health.
* Promotes organic growing methods.

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## Real-Life Success Stories

### Sarah’s Backyard Garden

“After years of battling blossom-end rot, I started crushing eggshells and mixing them into the soil around my tomatoes. The difference was clear—fruit quality improved, and the plants looked healthier.”

### Mark’s Organic Farm

“We rely on bone meal and gypsum to keep calcium levels optimal. Adding eggshells to our compost also helps. Our tomatoes have never tasted better.”

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## Common Questions About Using Eggshells and Calcium for Tomatoes

**Q: How much eggshell do I need per plant?**

A: About one tablespoon of crushed eggshell per plant is sufficient when mixed into soil or compost.

**Q: Can eggshells alone prevent blossom-end rot?**

A: Eggshells help but must be combined with good watering practices and balanced nutrition.

**Q: Can I use eggshells as mulch?**

A: Crushed eggshells can be lightly scattered, but they work best mixed into soil or compost.

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## Conclusion: Boost Your Tomatoes with Nature’s Calcium Powerhouses

Tomatoes thrive on calcium, and the good news is you don’t need expensive chemicals to supply it. From kitchen scraps like eggshells to natural amendments like bone meal, gypsum, and wood ashes, there are many ways to nourish your plants sustainably.

By integrating these 10 calcium-rich hacks into your gardening routine, you’ll enjoy stronger plants, bigger yields, and delicious, healthy tomatoes season after season.

Start today with a handful of crushed eggshells, and watch your tomato garden flourish with nature’s golden nutrient—calcium.

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If you want, I can also provide recipes for compost blends, foliar sprays, or companion planting ideas to further enhance your tomato harvest. Just let me know!