[Date Prev][Date Next][Thread Prev][Thread Next][Date Index][Thread Index]
Re[2]: fertilizer value of coffee grounds
Hadn't planned to send this to the whole list, but there seems to be
enough interest to warrant it.
The info below is NOT recent, and I don't know how accurate it is, but
it may serve as a starting place. It does not mention the pH.
An old Rodale book - Complete Book of Composting gives the
following:
coffee grounds,
fresh - Moisture - 62.9%, Ash .5%, N 1.84%, P2O5 .03%, K2O .12%
composted 58% -- 1.65% .22% 3.0%
My comments:
As always, adding high levels of uncomposted (fresh) organic matter can
"distract" the microorganisms normally relied upon for making N available to the
vege crops. Usually, N needs to be added to make up for the temporary shortage.
Same is true for "green" sawdust, leaves, etc.
If adding N isn't desirable, sounds as if the person might be better off
composting the material. If there's enough garden area available the person
could sheet compost in an area not to be planted this year. Otherwise I'm
guessing that a regular compost pile, with plans to use for late season crops or
for plants next year, might be better.
Tory Shade
University Extension-Missouri
SE Small Farm Family Program Supervisor
Farm Management Specialist
shadev@ext.missouri.edu