With an increasing interest in earth-friendly landscaping and gardening, many homeowners are looking for creative alternatives to chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Naturally in the Pacific Northwest, the coffee capital of the world, there’s plenty of leftover coffee grounds to go around. But are they really meant to go into your landscaping?

Here are the three things to keep in mind when considering the uses of coffee grounds outdoors.

Myth or Fact? The Truth About Coffee Grounds and Your Landscape

Acidity: Myth or Fact?

Fresh coffee grounds have a high acidity and should rarely be used outdoors. However, used grounds have a nearly neutral acidity level and are high in nitrogen, making them a great fertilizer in small quantities. To use safely, sprinkle lightly on top of soil, or make a coffee ground “tea”, diluting 2 cups of used coffee grounds in a 5-gallon bucket of water. Let the grounds soak for a few hours, then use as a liquid fertilizer.

Pest Solution: Myth or Fact?

If you’re having problems with slugs or other pests, consider using used coffee grounds as a barrier. Coffee grounds are abrasive and work as a great barrier when lined around slug or snail-prone plants. Similarly, many cats and other animals dislike the smell of coffee grounds and may avoid areas where used grounds are sprinkled.

Compost Addition: Myth or Fact?

If you’re hoping to do something useful with your daily grounds, they’re probably too much to regularly sprinkle on your soil. The best solution: compost them! This is the safest way to use large quantities of coffee grounds, as they will break down slowly and be mixed with other, less acidic fillers such as grass clippings, fall leaves, and other green matter.

Looking for more personalized advice on the best next steps for your landscaping?

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