Coffee Plant (Coffea)

Coffee plants (Coffea arabica) are attractive houseplants that not only add lush greenery to your indoor space but also produce fragrant flowers and coffee beans. With proper care, these plants can thrive indoors and create a tropical ambiance. Follow these care instructions to keep your coffee plant healthy and thriving:

1. Light: Place your coffee plant in a location with bright, indirect light. Coffee plants can tolerate some direct sunlight, but prolonged exposure to intense sun can scorch the leaves. A spot near an east or west-facing window is ideal.

2. Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water your coffee plant when the top 1-2 inches of soil feels dry to the touch. Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom of the pot, and then allow the excess water to drain completely. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

3. Humidity: Coffee plants prefer high humidity levels. To increase humidity, you can place a tray filled with water and pebbles underneath the pot, mist the leaves regularly, or use a humidifier. A humidity level of 50% or higher is ideal for these plants.

4. Temperature: Maintain a temperature range of 60-75°F (15-24°C) for optimal growth. Coffee plants can tolerate a range of temperatures but avoid sudden temperature changes and keep the plant away from drafts or cold windows.

5. Fertilizer: Feed your coffee plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a half-strength solution to avoid over-fertilizing. Reduce feeding to once every 2-3 months during fall and winter.

6. Pruning: Prune your coffee plant as needed to maintain its shape and size. Remove any yellow or brown leaves and trim the tips if they become damaged. You can also pinch back the growing tips to encourage bushier growth.

7. Repotting: Repot your coffee plant every 2-3 years or when the roots outgrow the pot. Choose a well-draining potting mix and a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Be gentle when handling the roots, and water the plant thoroughly after repotting.

8. Pest control: Keep an eye out for common pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Treat any infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Pet-friendly or toxic to pets?

According to the ASPCA, coffee plants (Coffea arabica) are considered toxic to both cats and dogs. If ingested, the beans, leaves, and stems can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, elevated heart rate, tremors, seizures, and even collapse due to the presence of caffeine. To keep your pets safe, it's best to place the coffee plant in an area that is inaccessible to them. If you suspect your pet has ingested any part of a coffee plant, contact your veterinarian immediately.