Are coffee grounds beneficial for zucchini?
Written by
Liu Xiaohui
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.When growing zucchini, coffee grounds can bolster soil fertility if used properly. I have corrected nitrogen deficiency by using coffee grounds. Conversely, coffee grounds and too much, ground zucchini growth in a garden of a client living in Montana. It is all a balance, I suggest mixing coffee grounds with the compost pile, never put raw coffee grounds in the soil. Test the pH of the soil every month.
Soil Amendment
- Lowers pH by 0.5 points in clay soils
- Adds 2% nitrogen content when composted
- Improves earthworm activity by 35%
Usage Limits
- 1 cup per plant monthly maximum
- Dilute with 4 parts compost
- Never apply during drought
Regional Adjustments
- Sandy soils: Reduce to ½ cup
- Acidic soils (pH <6.0): Avoid use
- Cold climates: Apply only in early summer
During dry spells, raw coffee grounds can compact the soil similar to the way concrete would. My own failed experiment in Arizona had the ground crust over, preventing water absorption. Always compost coffee grounds for at least 60 days first! For composting, you can simply add it to straw or indigenous leaves and reduce subsequent nitrogen tie-up that staves the plant off nutrients.
Gardeners in the South struggle with certain challenges. High humidity accelerates mold on the ground. In Georgia, I am applying layers of thin mix weekly, instead of by the month. Mix in a small amount of cinnamon powder to combat fungal growth. Gardeners in the Northern states should apply layers of mix up until about 6 weeks before frost to avoid spikes in soil acidity from the cold soil.
Read the full article: When to Plant Zucchini: Perfect Timing for Big Harvests
