I’ve actually tried using coffee grounds on my arborvitae trees before, and I can share my personal experience with you. Initially, I thought that the acidity of coffee grounds would be beneficial for my arborvitae, as they do prefer slightly acidic soil. However, I soon realized that adding coffee grounds to the soil can actually cause some problems for these trees.
One major issue I encountered was that the coffee grounds altered the pH balance of the soil. Arborvitae trees thrive in soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0, and adding coffee grounds can disrupt this balance. If the pH becomes too acidic, it can hinder the absorption of essential nutrients by the roots, leading to nutrient deficiencies and stunted growth.
In addition to pH imbalance, I also noticed that the coffee grounds had a tendency to compact the soil. This can restrict the flow of oxygen to the roots, impeding their ability to take up water and nutrients. Furthermore, compacted soil can lead to poor drainage, which can be detrimental to arborvitae trees as they prefer well-draining soil.
Another issue I faced was the potential for coffee grounds to create a thick layer on top of the soil, acting as a barrier that prevents water penetration. This can lead to water pooling on the surface and increases the risk of root rot or fungal diseases. Plus, a thick layer of coffee grounds can also attract pests and insects, which can further harm the arborvitae.
Based on my personal experience and considering the potential problems that coffee grounds can cause, I would advise against using them on your arborvitae trees. It’s always better to focus on maintaining the proper pH balance and providing well-draining soil for these trees. If you’re looking for organic fertilizers, there are other options available that are more suitable for arborvitae, such as compost or well-rotted manure.
While arborvitae trees do prefer slightly acidic soil, adding coffee grounds can disrupt the pH balance and cause issues with root health and growth. It’s best to avoid using coffee grounds on arborvitae and instead focus on maintaining proper soil conditions through other organic fertilizers and amendments.