How to care for a Coffee Tree

The Coffee Tree, the source of the beloved coffee beans, can be a delightful addition to your indoor or outdoor garden. With the right care, you can enjoy the satisfaction of nurturing your own coffee crop. Follow this guide to ensure your Coffee plant thrives and produces those aromatic beans you love.

Here’s a guide to caring for your Coffee plant.

Light

Indoor: Coffee Trees thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. Place them near a window with filtered light.

Outdoor: If grown outdoors, choose a spot with dappled sunlight or partial shade.

Water

Water your Coffee Tree when the top 3 cm of the soil feels dry to the touch. This typically means watering every 1-2 weeks. Use room-temperature water and ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.

Tip: the top of the soil may look dry but it can be wet beneath, so before watering your plant, dip your finger into the soil to feel the level of moisture. If it feels soggy, wait for a few days and check again.

Temperature & Humidity

Temperature: Coffee Trees prefer temperatures between 15°C to 24°C (60°F to 70°F). Protect them from cold drafts.

Humidity: Maintain moderate humidity levels, ideally between 40-50%. Use a humidity tray or mist the plant occasionally.

Maintenance

Pruning: Regularly trim your Coffee Tree to encourage bushier growth and remove any dead or yellowing leaves.

Fertilising: During the growing season (spring and summer), feed your plant with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 6-8 weeks.

Pests: Keep an eye out for pests like aphids or mealybugs and treat them promptly with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Potting

Indoor Potting: Use a well-draining potting mix. Repot when the plant outgrows its container. Choose a pot that’s 3-5 cm larger in diameter than the current one.

Outdoor Planting: If planting in your garden, make sure the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter. Space plants at least 6 feet apart to allow for proper growth.

Remember that to bear fruit, Coffee Trees require good growing conditions, including a healthy balance of light, temperature, humidity, and proper care. It may take several years before your plant matures enough to produce coffee cherries.