Have you ever wondered if your favorite ZZ plant might like a little caffeine boost in the form of coffee grounds?
Well, I’ve got the scoop on whether or not these low maintenance beauties enjoy a little java in their soil.
Do ZZ Plants Like Coffee Grounds?
While coffee grounds can add some nutrients to the soil, they also increase the acidity. ZZ plants prefer a slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0, but too much acidity can be harmful.
The Pros and Cons of Using Coffee Grounds
Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of using coffee grounds in your ZZ plant’s soil:
Pros of Using Coffee Grounds on ZZ Plants!
Here are several benefits to using coffee grounds on ZZ plants, including:
Nitrogen boost
Coffee grounds contain nitrogen, which is an essential nutrient for plants. By adding coffee grounds to the soil, you can provide a boost of nitrogen to your ZZ plant, helping it to grow strong and healthy.
Microbial habitat
The microbes found in coffee grounds can help improve soil health by breaking down organic matter and releasing nutrients into the soil. This can help create a healthy soil environment for your ZZ plant.
Pest deterrent
Some pests, such as slugs and snails, are repelled by coffee grounds. Adding coffee grounds to the soil can help deter these pests from damaging your ZZ plant.
Water retention
Coffee grounds can help improve water retention in the soil, reducing the risk of over- or under-watering. This can help ensure that your ZZ plant has the right amount of moisture to thrive.
Cons of Using Coffee Grounds on ZZ Plants
While coffee grounds can provide benefits to ZZ plants, there are also some potential drawbacks to be aware of:
Increased acidity
Coffee grounds are naturally acidic, and adding too many to the soil can raise the pH level and make it too acidic for the plant. This can lead to nutrient deficiencies and harm the ZZ plant’s overall health.
Mold growth
Wet coffee grounds can attract mold, which can be harmful to the ZZ plant. It’s important to let the coffee grounds dry out completely before using them in the soil to prevent this issue.
Over-fertilization
Too much of anything can be a bad thing, including coffee grounds. Over-fertilizing with coffee grounds can lead to excess nitrogen in the soil, which can harm the ZZ plant.
Soil imbalance
Coffee grounds can provide nitrogen, but they don’t have a balanced ratio of other essential nutrients that plants need, such as phosphorus and potassium. Over-relying on coffee grounds as a fertilizer can lead to imbalances in the soil that can harm the ZZ plant.
How to Use Coffee Grounds in ZZ Plant Soil?
If you do decide to give your ZZ plant a coffee grounds boost, here’s how to do it safely:
Mix the grounds with the soil
Don’t use coffee grounds as the sole component of your ZZ plant’s soil. Instead, mix it in with the existing soil to help regulate the acidity.
Use them sparingly
A little goes a long way with coffee grounds. Use about a quarter to a half cup of grounds for a small pot, and no more than a cup for a large pot.
Let them dry
Wet coffee grounds can attract mold, so be sure to let them dry out completely before using them in your ZZ plant’s soil.
Wrapping Up!
ZZ plants can benefit from the nitrogen and microbes found in coffee grounds, but it’s important to use them in moderation to avoid harm from increased acidity.
Hope you had a clear understanding of how to use coffee grounds on ZZ plants if you choose to do it!
