Gardening experts at The House of Terra have revealed that leftover coffee grounds can help roses produce larger flowerheads and prepare for autumn. The UK heat has compacted soil in recent months, reducing nutrients and water reaching the roots, but a simple method using a natural household item can revive the plants.
Coffee grounds attract worms and improve soil
According to the specialists, coffee grounds are a favoured food for local worm populations. Worms aerate the soil, enhancing its structure and water drainage. The dry summer weather causes soil to harden, but earthworms break up the compacted earth, helping vital resources reach roses so they remain adequately watered and nourished.
Earthworms also deposit worm castings, which add further nutrients to the soil. Coffee grounds alone are a valuable source of nitrogen, the nutrient responsible for foliage growth. Large leaves allow plants to absorb more energy, while sturdy stems help roses support even more impressive blooms.
Additional benefits and how to apply
Coffee grounds attract helpful insects such as worms while deterring damaging ones like slugs, which cannot tolerate their sharp, acidic aroma. To use, take damp leftover coffee grounds and spread them on a tray. Position the tray beside a window to allow sunlight to dry them thoroughly. Coffee is acidic, so it is essential to use leftover grounds as they are considerably less potent. The grounds must be fully dried to prevent mould in the garden.
After drying, sprinkle half a pound of coffee grounds around each rose. There is no need to work the coffee into the soil as this can damage the roots. Give the roses around two gallons of water after applying the grounds to help them seep into the earth. Treat roses only once, and they can flourish considerably, growing stronger and fuller and becoming thoroughly prepared for the colder months ahead.
