While enjoying my coffee, I often found myself thinking about how great it would be to grow my own coffee at home. At first, it seemed like an impossible idea. But instead of giving up, I decided to do some research. I wanted to learn everything I could about growing coffee plants. After gathering all the information, I needed, I took a leap of faith and got my own coffee plant for my home. In a nutshell, I transformed my desire to grow coffee at home into reality by following these simple steps.
1. Find a suitable space: Dedicate a space indoors or outdoors based on your living situation. Indoors, avoid direct sunlight, while outdoors, ensure enough space for growth.
2. Opt for indoor growth: It’s recommended to grow your coffee plant indoors, as temperatures outside the tropics can be unpredictable and affect its growth. If growing outdoors, consider using a regulated greenhouse.
3. Obtain coffee plant materials: Find seedlings, cherries, or green coffee beans. Potted coffee plants are rare, so look for freshly picked cherries or green seeds. Avoid using roasted beans for planting.
4. Choose the right soil: Select nutrient-rich soil with good drainage. Aim for a pH close to 6 to mimic the plant’s natural habitat. Ensure proper drainage to prevent excess water accumulation.
5. Care routine: Water the plant to keep the soil slightly moist, avoiding extremes of dryness or overwatering. Use a pebble tray with water to maintain humidity. Check the pH of the fertilizer periodically and fertilize as needed. Prune the plant regularly, preferably in spring.
6. Repotting: Repot the plant as it grows taller than 2 feet. Start with the first repotting at around 8 inches in height, and another when it reaches approximately 24 inches during its first year. Ensure responsible repotting, providing enough room for root growth without using excessively large pots.
By following these simple steps, you can successfully grow and care for your own coffee plant at home.