That said, noteveryleftover from your cooking endeavors has to be placed in your compost bin first.
They provide nutrients and can even help ward off pests like slugs, too.
But don’t just throw entire shell halves into your garden beds.
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While they may have run out of flavor for you, your garden will happily eat them up.
Coffee offers up nitrogen and organic matter, both of which your patch will appreciate.
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“They also improve soil texture and water retention,” says Gardiner.
“I sprinkle used coffee grounds directly onto the soil or mix them in as a light mulch.
Just be mindful not to overdo ittoo much can make the soil overly acidic.”
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It’s the perfect addition for plants that appreciate neutral and alkaline soil.
For the best results, she recommends chopping them up into small pieces so they can break down faster.
Burying them a few inches down keeps pests and rodents from catching wind of a possible meal.
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“These contain sulfur, which has natural anti-fungal and pest-repelling properties,” explains Gardiner.
“I scatter them around plants that are prone to fungal diseases or pests, such astomatoesand brassicas.”
They need a little preparation, but they don’t have to go in your bin first.
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Lettuce Cores
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Keep those cores on your cutting board.
To ensure you avoid attracting pests, she says to put them at least six inches beneath the earth.
It’s also smart to stick with small quantities to avoid mold.
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Mix this concoction with some water or pour it as is onto the soil surrounding your plants.
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