Coffee grounds – not just for your morning brew but pretty good in your garden too!
Saving used coffee grounds is not only great for the planet but can also be a great organic fertiliser, amongst other things. It slowly decomposes and releases nutrients to benefit your plants. And what’s better, it’s free!
There are a few uses for recycled coffee grounds in your garden but if this is new to you, here’s a handy guide to get you started:
- Coffee grounds can be mixed and added to your mulch. Rake the mixture over the top of your soil so it doesn’t clump together to allow water to penetrate the soil. It’s best not to use as the only mulch as it can clump together and cause waterlogging the surface.
- Add used coffee grounds to your soil to use an organic fertiliser. The difference in texture that the coffee adds will help improve drainage, water retention and aeration. The grounds also have nutrients which your plants will thank you for, including nitrogen – which is vital for healthy leaf development – phosphorus and potassium.
- Coffee grounds have also been used as a deterrent for slugs and snails, but if you’re finding that they’re almost like a regular to your plant-based coffee shop, get in touch – we’re always happy to offer advice.
- They’re also great to add to your heap if you do vermicomposting – worms seem to love coffee grounds!
- Just something to keep in mind: coffee grounds used on seedlings have been shown to deter growth in some plants like tomatoes, so we’d advise, much like with children, to keep the coffee away from the seedlings until they’re a little more mature.
Free coffee you say?!
Pick up your bag of free recycled coffee at The Potting Shed and don’t forget to let us know how your plants get on and if they enjoy the good stuff from River City Coffee as much as we do!
As always, if there’s anything you’re not sure about – particular plant problems or just need some general beginner advice, get in touch!
