It Might Sound Strange, but Many Do It – and It’s Great for Your Plants

Instead of Tossing Out Your Used Coffee Grounds… turn them into a nutrient-rich treasure for your soil and plants.
Imagine what could thrive in your garden with a little extra care – and something as simple as your leftover morning coffee.

What Are Coffee Grounds Good For?

• Packed with essential nutrients: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium
• Makes soil more acidic – perfect for acid-loving plants
• Can be used as a natural fertilizer or added to compost
• Deters cats and certain insects
• Useful for growing mushrooms

Use Coffee Grounds as Fertilizer

• Ideal for acid-loving beds: sprinkle directly on the soil
• Mix with other organic material for general garden use
• Boosts growth for carrots, radishes, and more
• Avoid thick layers – they can block water flow

Fertilizer for Acid-Loving Plants

Apply directly near plants like:

• Rhododendrons
• Hydrangeas (encourages blue flowers)
• Azaleas
• Heather
• Magnolia
• Blueberries

Helps create the ideal pH level for these species.

Coffee Grounds Beyond Acid Beds

Mix with:

• Grass clippings
• Leaves
• Other garden waste

Tip: Add lime or crushed eggshells to balance out acidity.
Great for flower beds and vegetable gardens.

Coffee Grounds in the Compost Bin

• Enriches the compost with nutrients
• Saves money and reduces waste
• Produces clean, weed-free fertilizer
• Requires patience – around 1 year to break down fully

Grow Your Own Mushrooms

• Oyster mushrooms love coffee grounds
• Only need mushroom spawn – available online
• A budget-friendly and eco-conscious way to grow your own
• Fun garden activity with delicious results

Keep Cats Away with Coffee Grounds

• Cats dislike the smell
• For added effect: mix with orange peels
• A natural and inexpensive way to keep your garden feline-free

Protect Plants from Insects

• Coffee grounds can deter certain pests
• Sprinkle around plants as a natural barrier
• An effective, eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides

Don’t Throw Coffee Grounds in the Trash

They have many uses in the garden:

• Fertilizer
• Compost
• Repellent
• Mushroom cultivation

It’s a free resource that’s too valuable to waste.

Good Questions

Is coffee grounds good for plants?
Yes, it contains vital nutrients and is especially beneficial for plants that prefer acidic soil.

Can coffee grounds be composted?
Absolutely – it’s a powerful compost ingredient that improves soil quality.