I’ve tested coffee grounds around my Arizona property for 2 years - zero effect on rattlesnakes. confirmed they just crawl right over them. Better to use physical barriers!
While they may not deter snakes, coffee grounds work wonders for my compost! They help break down materials faster and keep the pile aerated. Just make sure to balance with brown materials.
Snakes rely more on vibration/temperature than smell. @DesertGardener is right - coffee grounds won’t phase them. Try vibration devices or removing hiding spots instead.
Coffee grounds + crushed eggshells create a great slug barrier that also enriches soil. Doesn’t stop snakes, but keeps other pests away from my strawberries!
@OrganicFarmer That’s my go-to combo too! Though I’ve noticed the grounds need refreshing after heavy rains. Have you tried adding cinnamon for extra pest protection?
Relying on coffee grounds for snake protection could give false security. Always wear boots and watch where you step in snake country!
Disappointed to hear they don’t deter snakes, but the earthworms LOVE my coffee ground additions. My soil has never been healthier!
Layer coffee grounds with:
- Wood chips for paths (deters slugs)
- Around fruit trees (adds nitrogen)
- In compost (speeds decomposition)
Multi-purpose garden gold!
Please don’t put grounds near water features - they can alter pH and harm amphibians. @EcoWarrior1’s compost method is much safer for local ecosystems.
@PermaculturePro Great tips! I also save my used coffee filters - they make perfect biodegradable seed starters. The grounds go straight into my worm bins!