As winter temperatures continue to grip the UK, experts are revealing how household tea and coffee waste could give struggling houseplants a new lease of life.
Specialists have found that used tea bags and coffee grounds can help indoor plants flourish despite cold temperatures and limited daylight.
The common kitchen items can serve as powerful plant boosters, offering a sustainable way to maintain healthy houseplants during the challenging winter months.
Tea and coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen, which helps improve soil fertility and boost plant growth rates.
Tea and coffee help plants in the colder months
GETTY
These common waste products can enhance water retention in soil and attract beneficial microbes that support plant health. Room-temperature tea provides protection from frost and cold conditions, making it particularly valuable during the winter months.
Used tea bags and coffee grounds can also help prevent harmful bacteria from developing and reduce unwanted weed growth in plant pots. Different herbal teas offer unique benefits for houseplants.
Chamomile tea can reduce plant inflammation and encourage healthy growth patterns. Peppermint tea provides a gentle boost to overall plant growth.
Ginger tea has been found to improve soil health whilst supporting plant development.
These varieties can be particularly effective when the weather is cold, and there are several effective ways to apply tea and coffee grounds to benefit houseplants.
Used tea bags and grounds can be mixed directly into potting soil to enhance nutrient content and improve soil structure.
Both brewed tea and coffee can serve as natural fertilisers when applied in diluted form.
Weak tea solutions can help deter common pests like aphids and spider mites while nourishing plants.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
Different teas have different benefits
GETTY
CEO of Crown Pavilions Luke Dejahang said: “Herbal teas and coffee can be valuable additions to your plant care routine, especially during a cold snap.
“By following our tips and monitoring your plants, you can help them stay healthy and vibrant even in the darker, colder months of winter.”
Experts recommended adding herbal tea or coffee grounds to plants once every two to four weeks.
Plant owners should monitor their plants’ response carefully, as overuse can affect soil acidity. Too frequent application may lead to adverse effects such as yellowing foliage or brown leaf tips.