Can You Compost Coffee Grounds?
Yes, coffee grounds are excellent for composting. Despite their brown color, they are nitrogen-rich 'green' material that helps activate decomposition. They attract beneficial worms, add nutrients, and are slightly acidic. Use in moderation (no more than 20% of pile) and mix with 'brown' materials.
Key Takeaways
- Coffee grounds are a valuable addition to compost, providing nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, and other micronutrients.
- Unused coffee grounds are more acidic than used grounds; brewing removes most acid.
- Coffee grounds can be added directly to garden soil as mulch, but composting first is gentler.
Explanation
Coffee grounds are a valuable addition to compost, providing nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, and other micronutrients. They break down relatively quickly and help heat up the composting process. Worms are particularly attracted to coffee grounds.
Despite being brown in color, coffee grounds count as 'green' (nitrogen-rich) material for composting purposes. Balance them with 'brown' (carbon-rich) materials like leaves, cardboard, or paper. Too many grounds without balance can create a dense, smelly mass.
The acidity of used coffee grounds is actually quite mild (pH around 6.5), contrary to popular belief. They will not significantly acidify your compost or soil. Paper coffee filters can be composted along with the grounds.
Things to Know
- Unused coffee grounds are more acidic than used grounds; brewing removes most acid.
- Coffee grounds can be added directly to garden soil as mulch, but composting first is gentler.
- Coffee grounds are often available free from coffee shops for gardeners and composters.