Today’s Solutions: November 21, 2024

Wait! Don’t throw those coffee grounds away! Did you know the leftover grounds from your morning brew can do wonders for your garden? Today we share three ways that coffee grounds boost plant health. 

Add grounds to your compost

First and foremost, composting your grounds keeps them from ending up in a landfill, but they’re also rich in nitrogen which promotes the growth of helpful aerobic bacteria. Coffee filters (make sure they’re compostable) can balance out the green matter in your compost for a more balanced mixture. 

Fertilize your garden 

If you’re not composting at home yet (check out this guide to get started), you can use your grounds straight from the filter as well. The grounds contain nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus which help plants thrive. Occasionally sprinkle them around the base of plants or soak used grounds in water and use that to hydrate your plants. Be careful not to over fertilize!

Keep pests away

Pests like snails and slugs have a difficult time maneuvering across coarse grounds, so you can sprinkle them at the base of plants to form a pest barrier. Cats are also deterred by the scent of coffee, so the grounds can keep your furry companions from using your garden bed as a litter box 

Who knew your kitchen waste could do such wonders for your garden? If you don’t drink coffee, just ask a neighbor to collect their grounds for you or get some from your local coffee shop

Solutions News Source Print this article
More of Today's Solutions

Colombia outlaws child marriage in landmark move

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Colombia made a historic move to protect its youngest citizens by prohibiting child marriage. After nearly two decades ...

Read More

5 pre-holiday decluttering tips for a stress-free season

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM The holidays have arrived, bringing with them guests, gifts, and bright decorations. But, before you drape your home ...

Read More

You and your roommates make up your house’s microbiome

Here at The Optimist Daily we commonly write articles about the gut microbiome, its importance to our health, and how we can keep it ...

Read More

How to have an affordable Thanksgiving— even while turkey prices soar

It’s true— turkey prices are on the rise this year. Unlike last year's holiday season, when supply chain and labor issues created ingredient shortages, ...

Read More