Using Coffee Grounds in the Garden: Benefits, Risks, and Better Alternatives

A gardener heard coffee grounds help sago palms and asked about benefits and universal use.

The Facts

1. Highly acidic – may shift pH undesirably.
2. High in nitrogen – good for foliage plants like sagos, bad for fruiting/flowering plants (promotes leaves over blooms).
3. Grows fungus – dumping fresh grounds encourages mold.

Recommendation

Compost coffee grounds first. Once aged, use the compost as a soil amendment or in potting mix. Occasional light scattering won't hurt, but don't make a habit of it.