Do Monsteras Like Coffee Grounds? A Complete Guide

Monsteras are one of the most popular houseplants, loved for their jungle-esque vibe and iconic split leaves. As a Monstera parent, you likely want to provide the best care for your plant. So you may be wondering – can I use coffee grounds for my Monstera?

The answer is yes, Monsteras can benefit from coffee grounds in moderation! Coffee grounds contain key nutrients and compounds that support plant growth.

In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about using coffee grounds for your Monstera, from the benefits to how to use them properly. Let’s dive in!

Why Use Coffee Grounds on Monsteras?

Coffee grounds are often discarded daily, but they can actually be a useful additive for your houseplants. Here are some of the top benefits of using coffee grounds for your Monstera:

• Contains nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium – key nutrients plants need
• Releases nitrogen slowly over time as the grounds break down
• Can help make other fertilizers more available for plant uptake
• Adds organic matter to the soil, improving texture
• Helps soil retain moisture better
• Can increase acidity of very alkaline soils when used sparingly

The nutrients and organic content in coffee grounds make them a potential plant pick-me-up The key is using them correctly

Are Coffee Grounds Safe for Monsteras?

Coffee grounds are considered safe and potentially beneficial for Monsteras and many other houseplants. However, there are a few caveats to keep in mind

• Use in moderation – too much can lead to excessive soil acidity
• Don’t use if your soil is already highly acidic
• Avoid using if you have pets that may ingest the grounds
• Opt for grounds from organic, pesticide-free coffee when possible

While generally safe, you still want to take care in how you amend your Monstera soil with grounds. Follow the best practices outlined below.

How to Use Coffee Grounds for Monsteras

When used properly, coffee grounds can be a helpful addition to your Monstera care routine. Here are some tips on using coffee grounds effectively:

1. Source Fresh Grounds

• Use grounds within a day of brewing for maximum nutrient content.
• You can use grounds from your morning coffee!
• Avoid flavored or artificially flavored grounds.

2. Mix with Compost or Soil

• Don’t apply directly as a thick layer – incorporate into soil mix.
• Mix 1 part grounds with 2-3 parts potting soil or compost.
• This prevents changing the pH too dramatically.

3. Top Dress Lightly

• Sprinkle a thin layer of grounds loosely on the soil surface 1-2 times per year.
• Just a dusting – avoid heavy layers.
• Top dressing makes nutrients released over time.

4. Water in After Application

• Grounds will stick to Monstera leaves if dry applied.
• Water thoroughly after top dressing or mixing into the soil.
• This carries nutrients down into the root zone.

5. Alternate with Traditional Fertilizer

• Don’t rely on coffee grounds alone – use as a supplement.
• Alternate with a balanced houseplant fertilizer every 2-3 months.
• This provides the full spectrum of nutrients Monsteras need.

By following these tips, you can safely enhance your Monstera’s soil without going overboard.

What Are the Signs of Too Much Coffee in the Soil?

Moderation is key when using coffee grounds with your Monstera. Overdoing it can lead to issues like:

• Drop in soil pH making nutrients unavailable
• Nutrient deficiencies if pH gets too low
• Buildup of excess salts or nitrogen
• Leaf burn on the margins or tips
• Poor growth or small leaves

Monitor your plant closely when first using grounds. If you notice any negative impacts, flush the soil thoroughly with water to wash out excess grounds.

When to Avoid Using Coffee Grounds

While coffee grounds are fine for most Monsteras, there are a few cases where you’ll want to avoid using them:

• If your tap water is already highly alkaline, as grounds will drive pH down too far.
• If your Monstera already has very dark green, glossy leaves, indicating excess nitrogen.
• If the plant is stressed or struggling from repotting, pests, or other issues.
• If your fertilization program is already balanced for your plant’s needs.

For most situations, using grounds sparingly is beneficial. But monitor your plant and soil to be sure.

Can I Make a Liquid Fertilizer with Coffee?

Absolutely! You can easily make liquid Monstera fertilizer from used coffee grounds.

Follow these steps:

1. Save wet used grounds after brewing coffee.

2. Place the wet grounds in a bucket or jar.

3. Add water in a 5:1 ratio (5 parts water to 1 part grounds).

4. Let mixture steep for 24 hours.

5. Strain out the grounds through a sieve.

6. Dilute the resulting coffee fertilizer with water to make a weak solution your plant can handle.

7. Test the pH. Coffee can be acidic so you may need to adjust.

8. Water your Monstera with the fertilizer as needed.

The grounds will infuse the water with soluble nutrients. Just be sure to dilute and adjust the pH as needed before applying to your plant.

Troubleshooting Issues From Coffee Use

Yellow or drooping leaves shortly after applying coffee grounds may indicate excessive nitrogen. Flush the soil to remove any buildup.

If leaves turn brown or crispy at the tips, your pH may have dropped too low. Top dress with dolomitic lime or change pots to raise pH gradually.

Always start with small amounts of grounds to see how your Monstera responds before increasing usage.

The Takeaway

Coffee grounds can absolutely be used as an addition to your Monstera care routine. Their slow-release nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and organic matter enrich the soil. Just be sure to use grounds in moderation and complement them with traditional balanced fertilizer. Pay attention to your plant’s response and troubleshoot any issues that arise. With the right approach, coffee grounds can provide a beneficial boost!

Frequently Asked Questions

How often can I use coffee grounds on my Monstera?

Use coffee grounds sparingly, no more than once or twice per year. Mixing into soil or light top dressing is recommended. Overusing can cause nutrient buildup.

Are coffee grounds acidic or alkaline for Monsteras?

Coffee grounds are acidic with a pH around 4.5-5.5 when fresh. Acidity decreases as grounds break down. Mixing with compost or soil will help balance pH for Monsteras.

Can I use instant coffee on my Monstera plants?

It’s best to avoid instant coffee granules as these are very concentrated and soluble. They can easily burn roots or overload the soil with nutrients. Stick to used grounds from brewed coffee only.

Should I rinse coffee grounds before using on my Monstera?

There’s no need to rinse coffee grounds before amending your Monstera soil. The grounds provide benefits as they break down slowly. Rinsing may wash away some soluble nutrients.

Can I use decaf coffee grounds on houseplants like Monsteras?

Yes, the nutrients and organic benefits in used grounds come from the coffee beans themselves, not the caffeine. So decaf coffee grounds work just as well.

Are coffee grounds ok for Monstera seedlings or small plants?

It’s best to wait until Monsteras are mature before using coffee grounds. Young plants can be more sensitive to possible nutrient buildups. Fully established Monsteras can handle used grounds in moderation.