Coffee lovers, good news! According to a study from Washington State University, the reason you brew each morning can lead a second life in your garden. Before you throw away your next batch, here’s what science is checking about using coffee grounds in your garden:
The benefits of coffee grounds are authentic!
Coffee grounds relieve moderate soil temperatures and increase moisture retention to bind pesticide residues and heavy metals like other good Marcesou, preventing diffusion. Increases the availability of essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, iron and zinc.
Forget these myths
Coffee grounds are certainly not acidic – there is no change in pH as scientific evidence suggests, as growers suggest, but coffee grounds do not show that they do not repel cats, kill slugs or prevent weeds.
How to use them correctly:
With compost:
Before adding to compost, cool the site before using a coffee ground below 20% of the volume of compost (heat can kill beneficial microorganisms) do not add it to insect composting bins (may harm worms in trapped spaces)
As multi:
Apply a thin layer (less than 1/2 inch) of coffee ground scorbar. Apply a thick layer (4 inches) of rough organic mulch, like wood.
Science shows that coffee grounds can be a beneficial garden addition when used correctly. Just like brewing the perfect cup, you need to use those grounds in your garden as they require proper techniques!
Next time you finish brewing, don’t forget that the plants may enjoy their grounds about as much as they enjoyed their coffee!
Based on research by Dr. Linda Chalker Scott of Washington State University
