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How to Grow Coffee Bean Plant Indoors

Updated: February 16, 2023

If you’re a coffee lover, you might be interested in growing your own coffee bean plant indoors. Not only is it a fun and rewarding project, but it can also provide you with a sustainable source of coffee beans. In this article, we’ll go over the steps to grow a healthy coffee bean plant inside your home.

Choosing the Right Coffee Bean Plant

Before getting started, it’s important to choose the right variety of coffee bean plant. There are two main types: Coffea arabica and Coffea robusta. Coffea arabica is the most commonly grown coffee plant and typically produces higher quality beans with a sweeter taste. On the other hand, Coffea robusta is more resistant to disease and produces beans with a stronger flavor.

When purchasing your coffee bean plant, make sure to look for one that is specifically labeled as a houseplant or indoor plant. This will ensure that it’s suitable for growing inside your home and has been bred to thrive in indoor conditions.

Planting Your Coffee Bean Plant

Once you’ve chosen your coffee bean plant, it’s time to plant it. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • A pot with drainage holes
  • High-quality potting soil
  • Coffee bean plant

  • Fill your pot with potting soil, leaving about an inch of space at the top.

  • Gently remove the coffee bean plant from its container and loosen any tangled roots.
  • Place the plant in the pot and backfill with soil until it reaches the same level as it was in its original container.
  • Water the plant thoroughly until water starts draining out of the bottom of the pot.

Caring for Your Coffee Bean Plant

To keep your coffee bean plant healthy and thriving, follow these care tips:

  • Water: Water your coffee bean plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
  • Light: Coffee bean plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Place your plant near a window that gets plenty of sunlight but avoid placing it in direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
  • Temperature: Coffee bean plants prefer warm temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid placing your plant near drafty windows or air conditioning vents.
  • Fertilizer: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
  • Pruning: Prune your coffee bean plant to encourage bushier growth and remove any dead or damaged leaves.

Harvesting Your Coffee Beans

It takes about three to four years for a coffee bean plant to start producing beans. When the berries turn red, it’s time to harvest them. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • A bowl
  • Gloves
  • Harvesting shears

  • Put on gloves to protect your hands from the sharp leaves and branches.

  • Use harvesting shears to carefully cut off the ripe berries.
  • Place the berries in a bowl and remove the outer layer to reveal the coffee beans.
  • Rinse the beans and let them dry for several days before roasting.

FAQ

How long does it take for a coffee bean plant to produce beans?

It takes about three to four years for a coffee bean plant to start producing beans.

How much sunlight does a coffee bean plant need?

Coffee bean plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Place your plant near a window that gets plenty of sunlight but avoid placing it in direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.

Can I grow a coffee bean plant from a coffee bean?

It’s possible, but not recommended. Coffee beans purchased for consumption have been roasted, which makes them unsuitable for planting. It’s best to purchase a coffee bean plant from a reputable nursery or garden center.

Can I grow a coffee bean plant in a small pot?

Yes, you can grow a coffee bean plant in a small pot as long as it has drainage holes and is filled with high-quality potting soil. However, the plant may not reach its full potential in a smaller container.