How To Support Your Coffee Plant

If you’ve decided to adopt a coffee plant, congratulations! You’re about to embark on a journey of nurturing one of the most rewarding indoor plants. Coffee plants, with their glossy green leaves and potential coffee bean harvest, can be a charming addition to your home. But like any good relationship, they require a bit of understanding and support.

This blog will walk you through the essentials of caring for and supporting your coffee plant. From choosing the right spot in your home to understanding watering needs and tackling pests, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started on making sure your coffee plant thrives in its new environment.

Finding the Perfect Spot

Where you place your coffee plant plays a huge role in its health and happiness. Coffee plants love bright, indirect light. Think of it like a shaded spot in a tropical rainforest, where they originally come from. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, so avoid placing them right in front of a window.

However, a little morning sun can be beneficial. If you have an east-facing window, this could be a perfect spot. Alternatively, a spot a few feet away from a south or west-facing window works well too. Keep an eye on the leaves; if they start to get brown tips, it might be getting too much light.

Temperature is another factor. Coffee plants prefer temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). They don’t like drafts or sudden temperature changes, so avoid placing them near doors or heating vents. If you’re comfortable, your coffee plant is likely comfortable too.

Understanding Watering Needs

Watering can be a bit tricky, but once you get the hang of it, your plant will thank you. Coffee plants like their soil to be consistently moist but not soggy. Think of it as the Goldilocks zone of watering—not too much, not too little, just right.

During the growing season (spring and summer), you might need to water more frequently. Check the top inch of soil; if it feels dry, it’s time to water. In the fall and winter, you can let the soil dry out a bit more between waterings.

Overwatering is a common issue. If you notice yellowing leaves or a musty smell from the soil, your plant might be getting too much water. On the flip side, crispy brown edges on leaves can be a sign of underwatering. Adjust your watering schedule as needed to find that sweet spot.

The Right Pot and Soil

Your coffee plant will thrive in well-draining soil. A mix designed for tropical plants or a general potting mix with added perlite or pumice can work well. The goal is to ensure good drainage while retaining enough moisture for the roots.

When it comes to pots, make sure there’s a drainage hole. Coffee plants don’t like sitting in water, and a hole will help excess water escape. If your pot doesn’t have one, consider drilling a hole or repotting into something more suitable.

Repotting is usually necessary every couple of years. If you notice the plant is root-bound (roots growing in circles around the pot), it’s time to size up. Choose a pot that’s about 2 inches larger in diameter than the current one to give your plant room to grow.

Feeding Your Coffee Plant

Like all living things, coffee plants need food to grow. During the growing season, you can feed your plant every couple of weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Look for one that’s suitable for houseplants with an equal ratio like 10-10-10.

In the fall and winter, you can cut back on feeding as the plant’s growth naturally slows down. Over-fertilizing can lead to burnt roots and damaged leaves, so always follow the package instructions and err on the side of caution.

If you prefer a more natural approach, compost or worm castings can be a gentle, organic option. Just mix a small amount into the top layer of soil. Remember, feeding is about supplementing nutrients, not replacing good watering and light conditions.

Tackling Common Pests

Coffee plants are generally pest-resistant, but they can occasionally attract unwanted visitors. The most common pests are spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Keeping a close eye on your plant will help catch these early.

If you notice webbing or sticky residue on the leaves, it might be time to take action. A simple solution is to wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove pests manually. For a more thorough clean, you can use a gentle insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.

Prevention is always better than cure. Regularly cleaning the leaves and keeping your plant healthy and stress-free can reduce the risk of pest infestations. Remember, a healthy plant is a resilient plant.

Pruning and Shaping

Pruning helps keep your coffee plant looking its best and can encourage bushier growth. Trim back any dead or damaged leaves with clean, sharp scissors. You can also prune to shape the plant, cutting just above a leaf node to promote new growth.

This is a great time to inspect your plant for any signs of pests or disease. Remove any unhealthy sections to prevent them from spreading. Pruning is usually best done in the spring, as it encourages vigorous growth during the active growing season.

Don’t be shy with pruning; coffee plants are quite forgiving. Just remember not to remove more than a third of the plant at any one time, to avoid putting it into shock.

Humidity Needs

Coffee plants hail from humid tropical environments, so they appreciate a bit of extra humidity in your home. If your home is particularly dry, especially in winter, consider using a humidifier.

You can also increase humidity by misting the leaves with water or placing a tray of water near the plant. Grouping plants together can also create a microenvironment with higher humidity.

Watch out for crispy leaf edges, which can be a sign of low humidity. Increasing the humidity around your plant can help keep it looking lush and healthy.

Signs of a Happy Coffee Plant

How do you know if your coffee plant is content? Look for new growth and vibrant, glossy leaves. Happy coffee plants might even produce small white flowers, which can develop into coffee cherries.

Be patient, as it might take a few years for your plant to reach maturity and start flowering. But when it does, it’s a clear sign that your care is paying off. Enjoy the journey and take pride in your thriving green companion.

Final Thoughts

Supporting your coffee plant involves a bit of attention to its environment, watering, and feeding needs. With the right care, your plant will grow strong and healthy, rewarding you with its beauty and possibly even coffee beans.

At Cafe Planta, we love helping plant lovers on their journey. Whether you're looking for new plants to add to your collection or need some advice, we’re here to help. Feel free to email us or reach out via Instagram. Let's keep our homes green and vibrant together!