Arabica Coffee Plant:
Indoor Growing Tips for a Lush and Healthy Plant

If you’re a coffee lover, then you probably know that the Arabica coffee plant is one of the most popular coffee plants in the world. In fact, 70% of the world’s coffee is made from Arabica beans. But did you know that you can grow an Arabica coffee plant indoors?

Yes, it’s true! Growing an Arabica coffee plant indoors can be a fun and rewarding experience. Not only will you have a beautiful plant to look at, but you’ll also be able to harvest your own coffee beans. Here are some indoor growing tips to help your Arabica coffee plant thrive.

Choose the Right Pot

When it comes to choosing the right pot for your Arabica coffee plant, size matters. You want to choose a pot that is big enough for the plant’s roots to grow, but not so big that the soil stays wet for too long. A good rule of thumb is to choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current pot.

Make sure that the pot has drainage holes at the bottom to allow excess water to drain out. This will prevent root rot and other diseases.

Soil Type

The soil type for your Arabica coffee plant is important as well. You want to use a well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. A good mix would be 50% peat moss and 50% perlite or vermiculite.

Watering

Watering is crucial for your Arabica coffee plant. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other diseases, while underwatering can cause the leaves to wilt and fall off.

Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Make sure that you water thoroughly and allow excess water to drain out of the bottom of the pot.

Light

Arabica coffee plants need bright but indirect light. Place your plant near a window that receives bright, filtered light, but avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.

If you don’t have access to bright, filtered light, you can use artificial grow lights to supplement natural light.

Temperature and Humidity

Arabica coffee plants prefer temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) during the day and slightly cooler temperatures at night. They also prefer humidity levels between 50-60%.

To increase humidity levels around your plant, you can place a tray of water near it or use a humidifier.

Fertilizer

Fertilizing your Arabica coffee plant is important for healthy growth and bean production. Use a balanced fertilizer once per month during the growing season (spring and summer) and reduce fertilization during the dormant season (fall and winter).

Pruning

Pruning your Arabica coffee plant will help promote new growth and keep it looking tidy. Prune back any dead or yellowing leaves, as well as any branches that are growing in an undesirable direction.

Harvesting

Once your Arabica coffee plant starts producing beans, it’s time to harvest them! The beans will turn from green to red when they are ready to be harvested.

Pick off the ripe cherries by hand or with scissors, then remove the outer layer of skin (pulp) and let them dry for several days before roasting.

FAQ

Q: How long does it take for an Arabica coffee plant to produce beans?

A: It can take up to three years for an Arabica coffee plant to start producing beans.

Q: Can I grow an Arabica coffee plant from a seed?

A: Yes, you can grow an Arabica coffee plant from a seed, but it will take longer than growing from a cutting or established plant.

Q: Can I use regular potting soil for my Arabica coffee plant?

A: No, regular potting soil is not recommended for an Arabica coffee plant as it does not provide enough drainage. Use a well-draining soil mix instead.

Q: Do I need more than one Arabica coffee plant for bean production?

A: No, you only need one Arabica coffee plant for bean production.

Q: How often should I prune my Arabica coffee plant?

A: Prune your Arabica coffee plant as needed to promote new growth and keep it looking tidy.