Project of the Day: Giving New Life to Abalone Shells
For decades, these beautiful abalone shells sat at Dan’s parents’ home, and later found a resting place in what we lovingly call the “bone yard”—a collection of rocks, bones, and even petrified wood forming a protective ring around a small juniper tree in the center of our driveway. When we built the drive, I asked Dan to leave as many trees as possible, and this little one still stands strong today.
In this project, I gather the abalone shells, give them a good rinse, and repurpose them around the garden as natural watering holes for pollinators and critters.
Why Abalone Shells? Their natural curves hold just the right amount of water. Smooth surfaces make it easy for bees, butterflies, and small birds to land safely. The shallow shape prevents drowning, unlike deeper water dishes. Plus, they add a touch of natural beauty to the garden while serving a real purpose.
It’s a simple, sustainable way to reuse something with family history and turn it into a resource for the wildlife that helps our garden thrive.
Join me in today’s project and see how these shells bring both charm and function to our pollinator-friendly space!