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How to Use Coffee Grounds to Fertilize Plants

coffee grounds for houseplants

If you or someone in your home enjoys coffee, you’re likely familiar with the many household uses of old coffee grounds. But did you know this common kitchen byproduct can be put to work for your plants?

Coffee grounds contain a variety of nutrients that support plant health, including nitrogen, potassium, magnesium, and calcium, nutrients essential to plant growth. They also help enhance soil structure and increase its water-holding capacity.

However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind when using coffee grounds to fertilize houseplants. Read on to learn more about using coffee grounds to fertilize and boost nutrients for your houseplants.

Coffee Grounds for Plants: Top Tips & Tricks

Choose Used Grounds Over Fresh Ones

When reusing coffee grounds, it’s best to stick to those that have already been brewed. Fresh coffee grounds—those that haven’t been used to make coffee—can be quite acidic and still contain caffeine, which can negatively impact most houseplants.

Don't overdo it!

As with all fertilizing tactics, it is incredibly easy to overdo things and burn your plant. Err on the side of caution and use coffee grounds sparingly, no matter which method you employ.

Sprinkle Used Grounds on Top of Soil

Perhaps the simplest way to reuse coffee grounds on your plants is to sprinkle them directly onto the soil of your plant. As previously mentioned, do so sparingly and never create a thick layer of coffee grounds on top of your plant.

Create a Liquid Fertilizer Using Used Coffee Grounds

Another simple way to use coffee grounds is to make a liquid fertilizer by diluting used coffee grounds in water. Add no more than a teaspoon of used coffee grounds to a gallon of water, let the mixture steep for a couple of days, stirring occasionally, and then strain it. The resulting liquid can be used to water your plants and gently nourish them.

Incorporate Used Coffee Grounds into Your Compost

Adding used coffee grounds to your compost is a highly effective way to repurpose them for plant nourishment. To begin, simply add your used coffee grounds to your compost pile. When your compost is ready, mix a small amount with potting soil and distribute it among your plants.

Be mindful of how much compost you use—too much can lead to nutrient overload, causing foliage burn or other issues.

Supplement with Other Nutrients as Needed

While coffee grounds can be a helpful addition, they won’t cover all your plants' nutrient needs. Consider using a premade plant fertilizer or refreshing your potting soil periodically to keep your plants healthy. Our natural plant food, Booste Vitaminé, is an excellent liquid plant fertilizer that is gentle enough to use year round.


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