Let’s talk soil, sustainability, and your garden.
If you love coffee (and plants), you’ve probably heard people say you can sprinkle used grounds in the garden. But is that really a good idea? And more importantly—is coffee actually good for plants?
Here’s what you need to know before you tip your next French press into a flower bed:
☕ Used Coffee Grounds: A Natural Soil Booster?
The short answer is: yes—but with care.
Used coffee grounds contain nutrients like:
- Nitrogen (helps plants grow leaves)
- Potassium and phosphorus (support root and flower development)
- Organic matter (improves soil structure and water retention)
That makes them a decent soil amendment—especially when composted first or mixed into existing soil.
When Coffee Helps
Here’s when and how coffee can benefit your plants:
In compost
Coffee grounds break down beautifully and help create rich compost. Just mix with other materials like dry leaves, vegetable scraps, and paper.
For acid-loving plants
Plants like azaleas, hydrangeas, blueberries, and roses can enjoy slightly acidic soil. Coffee grounds (used, not fresh) can help maintain the right pH.
As mulch (in moderation)
A light sprinkle of used coffee grounds on top of the soil can act as mulch—helping retain moisture and deter pests like slugs and snails.
When Coffee Hurts
But not all plants love coffee—and more isn’t always better.
Too much = too dense
Coffee grounds are fine-textured and can compact soil, making it harder for water and air to reach roots if used excessively.
Fresh grounds are acidic
While used grounds are mostly pH-neutral, fresh coffee grounds are quite acidic. Don’t use them directly unless you know your plants love acid.
Caffeine can inhibit growth
Some studies show that caffeine may slow down seedling growth—especially in young plants or delicate greens.
So… Should You Use Coffee Grounds in the Garden?
Yes—but use them wisely:
Compost them first. Mix into soil, don’t layer thickly. Avoid around seedlings or delicate plants. Use for acid-loving plants. Always use used grounds (not fresh!)
💡 At Tambia, we love that our coffee can live a second life in your garden—and support sustainable habits from farm to kitchen to soil.
Bonus Tip: Coffee + Sustainability
Using your used grounds to feed plants or compost is a great way to reduce waste. And when you choose specialty, traceable coffee like Tambia, you’re already supporting more sustainable farming practices from the start.