Save yourself the cost of expensive houseplant fertilizers from specialist retailers. Bet you already have a nutrient-dense alternative at home? Coffee grounds should not end up in the garbage, but in the plant pot. Here you can find out why plants share your passion for the aromatic drink.

Coffee grounds fertilize and protect against pests

What makes coffee grounds the ideal fertilizer for houseplants?

The advantage of cost savings is obvious. Coffee grounds accumulate in every household where coffee is consumed. Since it is inevitably a waste product, there are no additional expenses. But what is the importance of coffee grounds for indoor plants?

Coffee grounds contain many nutrients

When the beans are brewed, some of the nutrients found in coffee remain in the powder, including:

  • Nitrogen: 2%
  • Phosphorus: 0.4%
  • Potassium: 0.8%

In addition, there is a not insignificant proportion of various tannic acids, antioxidants and caffeine. All these minerals can also be found in conventional products. Plants gain energy from the nutrients and show stronger growth.

Coffee grounds regulate the pH of the potting soil

Many plants prefer slightly acidic soil. Thanks to the tannins in the coffee, it creates optimal conditions for the right substrate.

Coffee grounds protect against pests

Do you often have ants in your home? Coffee grounds are also effective against this. The insects can't stand the smell and run away.

These houseplants are happy to be fertilized with coffee grounds

But be careful, not every houseplant can tolerate such a high nutrient density in the soil. You can't go wrong with citrus, however. This plant species loves acidic soil.

You must pay attention to this

Before you sprinkle the coffee grounds over the substrate, you must dry them well. Otherwise there is a risk of mold. It is best to spread out the trapped powder on a baking sheet and allow the moisture to escape in the air. In addition, you should not only apply the coffee grounds to the surface, but mix them into the substrate. Then the nutrients work even more effectively.
But please don't overdo it. Coffee grounds serve as a support, but do not replace the choice of the appropriate substrate. For indoor plants, it is sufficient to administer the alternative fertilizer once in spring and once in autumn. The recommended dose is 4 to 8 g. This amount is about one teaspoon.

Category:

Indoor plants