How to Grow a Coffee Tree at Home: A Complete Guide

What is a Coffee Tree?

A coffee tree, scientifically known as Coffea arabica or Coffea canephora, is an evergreen plant known for producing the coffee cherries that yield coffee beans. This tropical plant is native to Africa.

In their natural environment, coffee trees grow in tropical regions with high humidity, consistent temperatures, and well-draining soil. While they can grow up to 3–4 metres tall outdoors, indoor coffee plants are typically pruned to about 1–2 metres to fit the space available.

When to Grow a Coffee Tree?

Coffee plants thrive when planted in spring or early summer, as the warmer temperatures and longer days provide an ideal growing environment. However, with the right indoor conditions, you can begin the process at any time of the year. To find out all about coffee production, read our article on the topic.

Pro Tip: If growing indoors, ensure the plant is shielded from sudden temperature changes caused by heaters or air conditioning.

Steps to Grow a Coffee Tree at Home Using Coffee Seeds

Procure Yourself Some Good Coffee Seeds

The success of growing a coffee tree begins with selecting high-quality seeds. Fresh coffee seeds are essential, as old or improperly stored seeds may fail to germinate. Look for reputable suppliers who provide seeds with a high germination rate. Look for seeds marked as “green coffee beans” or “unroasted coffee beans.” Roasted coffee beans will not germinate.

Where to Find Coffee Seeds:

• Specialised gardening centres
• Online suppliers of coffee-growing kits
• Specialty coffee shop

Steps to Grow a Coffee Tree at Home Using Coffee Cherries

Procure Coffee Cherries

Fresh coffee cherries are another excellent option for starting your coffee tree. These can sometimes be sourced from specialty coffee suppliers or directly from coffee-growing regions. Ensure the cherries are ripe and vibrant red for the best results.

Plant Coffee Beans from Cherries

1. Extract the Beans: Remove the pulp from the cherries by squeezing them gently.
2. Clean the Beans: Rinse the extracted beans thoroughly to remove any sticky residue. Let them dry for 24 hours.
3. Follow the Planting Process: Use the same method described for planting coffee seeds, ensuring proper soil and drainage.

Tips and Q&A for Coffee Tree Care

Can Coffee Plants Grow in Pots?

Yes, coffee plants grow very well in pots, making them ideal for indoor cultivation. Using a pot allows you to control the growing environment, such as temperature, humidity, and soil conditions, which are crucial for healthy growth.

What Pot to Use for Planting Your Coffee Tree?

Choose a pot with good drainage holes. Start with a smaller pot and repot into larger containers as the plant grows. Ensure the pot has good drainage to prevent root rot.

Where Do Coffee Trees Grow Best?

Coffea arabica trees grow best in tropical climates with high humidity, consistent temperatures (18–24°C), and well-draining, slightly acidic soil. So if you’re growing a coffee plant at home, try to mimick that by placing them in locations where you can control temperature, light, and moisture. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.

What’s the Best Temperature for a Coffee Tree?

Maintain a temperature range of 18–24°C (65–75°F). Protect the plant from sudden temperature changes or cold drafts.

Should You Use Fertiliser for a Coffee Tree?

Yes, fertilising your coffee tree is important to support its growth. Use a balanced, slow-release fertiliser or one specifically designed for acid-loving plants. Apply every 2–3 months during the growing season.

How Long Does a Coffee Tree Take to Grow?

A coffee plant typically takes about 3–4 years to mature and produce its first flowers. After flowering, it takes an additional 6–8 months for the cherries to ripen and be ready for harvest. Regular care, including pruning, fertilising, and maintaining the correct environment, can help speed up the growth process and ensure a healthy plant.

When and How to Repot a Coffee Tree?

Repot your coffee tree every 1–2 years or when the roots outgrow the pot. Choose a slightly larger pot and refresh the soil. Remember to take its size into account when repotting. You will also need to use an acidic potting soil.

If it has grown a lot, you may have difficulty repotting it. If this is the case, all you need to do is resurface the plant. Simply remove around ten centimetres of the substrate and add new potting soil.

How Will Your Coffee Tree Grow?

Once you plant your Coffea arabica seed, expect it to take approximately 3 to 4 weeks to germinate. During this time, the seed absorbs moisture and begins to sprout.

3 to 4 weeks after germination, roots will emerge, followed by a small stem with a protective parchment-like covering at its tip.

At 10 to 12 weeks, this parchment will fall away, giving way to dark green leaves that grow in pairs. These leaves are a clear sign that your coffee plant is developing as expected.

Patience is key when growing a coffee tree. The first fruits typically appear 3 to 5 years after planting, depending on the care you provide and the conditions in which the plant is grown.

When Does the Coffee Tree Flower?

In nature, coffee trees bloom after rainfall. Once the flowers bloom, it takes 6 to 9 months for the fruits (coffee cherries) to ripen fully and be ready for harvest. However, if the first rainfall is irregular or interrupted, the fruits on the tree may ripen at different rates. This explains why you might see a mix of both red and green cherries on the same branch.

To ensure the best harvest, manual picking is necessary to collect only the ripe cherries. This may require several passes to gather all the cherries at their peak.

What To Do After the Harvest?

Once the coffee cherries are ripe and harvested, the next steps involve processing the cherries to extract the beans:

1. Remove the Cherry Pulp: The outer red pulp of the cherries is removed to reveal the seeds inside.
2. Dry the Beans: Spread the beans out in a warm, dry area and turn them regularly to ensure even drying. This process can take several days.
3. Roast the Beans: Once dried, the beans can be roasted in a pan on high heat for 10 to 20 minutes, depending on your preferred roast level. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
4. Rest the Beans: After roasting, allow the beans to rest for 1 to 3 days. This helps the flavours develop fully.
5. Grind and Brew: Once rested, grind the beans and brew them with boiling water to enjoy a cup of coffee made entirely from your home-grown harvest.

Growing your own coffee tree and preparing the final product is a labour of love, but the reward is a cup of coffee like no other, filled with the satisfaction of your efforts. It is an exciting journey that connects you with the coffee-making process. By following the steps outlined in this guide and paying close attention to your plant’s needs, you can enjoy the satisfaction of nurturing your very own coffee tree. To find out more about the history of coffee, its terroirs, roasting and varieties, discover our ultimate guide.