Are Grounds From Flavored Coffee Good For Roses?

Question:

I've heard that used coffee grounds are good for rose bushes. Can the grounds from flavored coffees also be used?

Hardiness Zone: 6a

Maryeileen from Brooklyn, OH

Answer:

Maryeileen,

This is a tough one. My initial response is no, it is not a good idea to use the grounds from flavored coffee on your rose bushes. However, it really just depends on the ingredients. The main problem is that many flavored coffees contain added sugars or powdered creams to create certain flavors. This is especially true of instant flavored coffees. When used grounds or leftover coffee containing these ingredients is added to the soil, it can create an imbalance in the soil's chemistry that encourages insects and mold. And as you know, roses can be somewhat susceptible to mold problems as it is.

I don't know of any specific tests or studies to point you to, and I don't drink flavored coffee, so I can't speak from personal experience. If you decide to try it, I would recommend using only small amounts of grounds, and digging them slightly into the soil. I have heard some gardeners say that one of the added benefits of using regular used coffee grounds around their roses (grounds void of creams or sugars) is that the grounds actually work to keep insects away.

Ellen