When Life Gives You Lemons ...

 

When life gives you lemons ... buy more yellow stuff to match them.  😄

I called into Booths after having my haircut first thing yesterday morning.  It was so hot outside and deliciously cool in the store so I followed the cool air.  I mainly wanted some lemons and a banana, so I think I got away quite lightly with only three other things leaping into my trolley.

It was so lovely and cool in there that I decided to go upstairs and treat myself to a coffee.  Between the coffee and a glass of tap water I managed to stay in the cool of the café for almost an hour, replying to comments on previous blog posts, doing my Wordle and my Woodoku daily puzzle and generally enjoying the chilly air-con.

Then it was back home before my ice-lollies melted in the heat of the car. 

I struck gold, well coffee-ground gold in the café for the first time while I was there.  

They have a basket at the end of the counter that has a sign saying 'Coffee Grounds for Your Garden, please help yourself'.  I have never seen any in it, obviously going in so early in the morning is the way forward, so I might have to call for another cup of coffee early one morning.  😉

Coffee grounds can be a beneficial addition to your garden, improving soil structure, providing nutrients, and even deterring pests when used correctly.

Benefits of Coffee Grounds

1. Nutrient Content: Used coffee grounds contain about 2% nitrogen, along with trace amounts of phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients like calcium and magnesium. These nutrients can help promote healthy plant growth. 
2. Soil Improvement: Coffee grounds can enhance soil structure by improving drainage and aeration. As they decompose, they contribute to the formation of humus, which is essential for healthy soil. 
3. Microbial Activity: Adding coffee grounds to your compost or soil can stimulate microbial activity, which is crucial for breaking down organic matter and enriching the soil. 
4. Pest Deterrent: Coffee grounds can help deter slugs and other pests, making them a useful addition to your garden. 
5. How to Use Coffee Grounds

• As a Soil Amendment: Sprinkle used coffee grounds directly onto the soil or mix them into the top few inches. Aim for a layer no thicker than 1/2 inch to prevent compaction and water resistance. 
• In Compost: Coffee grounds are considered a "green" material in composting, meaning they are high in nitrogen. They should make up no more than 15-20% of your total compost volume to maintain a balanced mix with "brown" materials like dried leaves. 
• For Specific Plants: While coffee grounds can benefit many plants, they are particularly good for acid-loving plants like azaleas and blueberries. However, they may not be suitable for all plants, so it's essential to monitor how your plants respond. 
• Precautions

• Avoid Fresh Grounds: Do not use fresh coffee grounds, as they are high in caffeine and acidity, which can harm plants. Always use used grounds that have been brewed.
• Monitor Application: Over-application can lead to compaction and create a barrier that prevents water from reaching plant roots. Use coffee grounds sparingly and assess your soil's needs before application. 
  By incorporating coffee grounds into your gardening practices, you can enhance soil health and promote robust plant growth while recycling a common kitchen waste product.

1.                           

 I thought that this might be useful.

Sue xx