How to Care for Coffee Plant

The Coffee Plant (yes, the plant that produces that beautiful caffeinated beverage) makes a great easy care houseplant for beginners and experienced green thumbs alike! A small potted coffee plant makes a beautiful addition to your home decor with deep green leaves that have a beautiful texture. 

Will a Coffee Plant grow coffee beans? 

First things first, you won’t be harvesting your morning cup of joe from this houseplant, unfortunately. It takes a few years (up to 3-5) for a Coffee Plant to grow mature enough to produce flowers, and conditions need to be optimal for the development of the berries. If your plant is really happy, you can pollinate its flowers by hand and you might get a few beans! 

How much light does a Coffee Plant need? 

Coffee Plants love bright light, but not direct sun. Keep them near a sunny window for best results! 

How much water does a Coffee Plant need? 

Coffee plants need watered regularly and will droop when they are under-watered and in need of a drink. They perk right back up within a few hours (just like you when you get a coffee after lunch)! 

Keep the soil moist but don’t let the roots sit in water. After watering, dump any excess out of the pot to make sure the roots don’t get waterlogged. Coffee plants also enjoy a humid environment so you may benefit from a humidifier or humidity tray to help keep them thriving. 

Does a Coffee Plant need fertilizer? 

Coffee Plants can grow several feet tall at their fullest height, so regular fertilizing and repotting can help your Coffee Plant manage healthy growth! Fertilize with a balanced houseplant fertilizer every 2-3 months in warmer seasons. Don’t fertilize in the fall and winter while the plant is resting.  

What’s the best temperature for a Coffee Plant? 

Keep it warm! Coffee Plants are tropical plants that like to stay warm and humid, so they need to stay above 65F. Keep them away from drafts and consistent cold temps. 

Common Coffee Plant problems 

Leaf Drop

Coffee plants like to stay well watered, but too much water can lead to fungal issues and root rot, which can make leaves fall off and cause issues throughout the plant. Sunburn can also cause leaf damage, so if your soil looks good, check how much direct sunshine your plant is getting and move it further from the window.

Root Rot

Maintain moist soil and water when the top inch or so of soil has dried out. If your plant sits in water or the soil is too wet, the roots can rot and kill the plant. If you notice excess water or waterlogged soil, you can repot into well draining potting soil to prevent further damage. Trim off any dead roots first! 

Wake Up and Smell the Coffee Plant 

 We can’t wait to see your Coffee Plant -- show us on Instagram when you tag @wild_interiors. You can reach us via DM or email with any questions.