What to Do with Nut Shells: A Few Ideas from the Farm
Nuts have been a staple in diets around the world for centuries. Packed with nutrients and flavor, nuts are not only delicious but also have many health benefits. We want to share more with you about in-shell nuts, including the various types of nuts in shell available, each of their unique characteristics, and the benefits of eating them in their natural form.
We’ve recently started offering hazelnut shells here at Handy Farms—something that often gets overlooked but has plenty of uses if you know where to put them.
Nut shells are tough, slow to break down, and surprisingly versatile. Here are a few simple ways folks have been putting them to good use:
Mulch for the Garden
Hazelnut shells make great mulch. They help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and slowly add organic matter to the soil as they break down. They’re especially useful around perennial beds and fruit trees.
Fire Starters
Dry shells burn hot and clean, making them a good addition to kindling or a wood stove. Just be sure they’re completely dry, and avoid using them in open flames where sparks are a concern.
Drainage in Pots
Add a layer of shells at the bottom of plant pots to improve drainage. They’re lightweight and natural, and unlike gravel, they’ll break down slowly over time.
Drainage in Pots
Add a layer of shells at the bottom of plant pots to improve drainage. They’re lightweight and natural, and unlike gravel, they’ll break down slowly over time.
Coop or Animal Bedding
Some folks use crushed shells as bedding for chickens or other small animals. They help control moisture and odor, though we always recommend testing a small amount first to see how your setup responds.
We love the idea of using the whole harvest—not just the nut, but everything it grows in. If you’d like to pick up a bag of hazelnut shells, they’re available now alongside our other farm goods.
Organic DIY Face Scrub
Looking for a gentle yet effective organic face scrub? This DIY exfoliating face scrub is perfect for all skin types—especially if you’re looking for a face scrub for sensitive skin. Made with finely ground walnut shells from Handy Farms and other natural ingredients, this organic scrub will leave your skin feeling soft, clean, and naturally radiant.
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