Live to Plant

How to Grow Coffee Plant Outdoors

Updated: September 9, 2022

Growing coffee plants outdoors can be a fun and rewarding experience. Not only can you enjoy the process of nurturing your own plant, but you can also enjoy the fruits of your labor by harvesting your very own coffee beans. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to successfully grow coffee plants outdoors.

Choosing the Right Location

When choosing a location for your coffee plant, it is important to keep in mind that these plants prefer warm, humid climates. Ideally, your plant should receive plenty of sunlight but also have some shade during the hottest part of the day. Additionally, coffee plants require well-draining soil and plenty of water.

Purchasing Your Coffee Plant

Coffee plants are not commonly available at local nurseries, so you may need to do some research online to find a reputable seller. When purchasing your plant, make sure that it is healthy and disease-free. Look for plants that have several leaves and are at least six inches tall.

Planting Your Coffee Plant

Once you have chosen your location and purchased your plant, it’s time to plant it. Start by digging a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of your plant. Make sure that the hole is deep enough to accommodate the entire root system of your plant.

Next, place your plant in the hole and backfill with soil. Be sure to tamp down the soil around the base of the plant to remove any air pockets. Give your plant a good watering to help settle the soil around the roots.

Caring for Your Coffee Plant

Caring for your coffee plant is relatively easy once it is established. Water your plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize your plant every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer.

Coffee plants can grow quite tall, so you may need to prune them occasionally to keep them from getting too large. Additionally, if you live in an area with cold winters, you may need to protect your plant from frost.

Harvesting Your Coffee Beans

Coffee plants typically take several years to mature and produce beans. When your plant is ready to harvest, the beans will turn a bright red color. Simply pick the beans off the plant and remove the outer layer to reveal the coffee bean inside.

Once you have harvested your beans, be sure to roast them before using them to make coffee. This can be done at home using a simple roasting machine or by taking them to a local coffee roaster.

FAQ

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

Coffee plants typically take three to four years to mature and produce beans.

Can coffee plants survive in cold climates?

Coffee plants prefer warm, humid climates and may not survive in areas with cold winters.

Do coffee plants require a lot of maintenance?

Coffee plants require regular watering and fertilizing, but are relatively low-maintenance once established.

How many beans can one coffee plant produce?

One coffee plant can produce several pounds of beans per year, depending on its size and growing conditions.

Can I grow coffee plants indoors?

Yes, coffee plants can be grown indoors as long as they receive plenty of sunlight and are kept in a warm, humid environment.