Odd Question: Coffee Grounds as Substrate??

[Archimedes]

Hey all, I recently came into a job at a popular cafe, and because of this, I have a basically endless supply of free espresso grounds at my disposal, should I want them for any reason. I was already considering using it for potted plants, especially tomatoes, as I hear they come up especially yummy!!!, but I was wondering if anyone has tried it as bedding for their BPs? a cursory Google search doesn't turn up much on the subject, just that it can be used as a pest repellent when burned (as most things will that produce a thick smoke).

Has anyone tried this or have any further insight as to its possibilities? Thanks in advance for any input! I obviously don't want to do it if it could be harmful to my girls, but it seems like an efficient way to have more naturalistic terrariums, should I decide to go back to a loose substrate (they're both on paper towels at the moment.)

[seanzee1]

Never have i tried it or heard of it but i dont suggest it. Coffee has a really strong sharp smell to it. you try smelling it all day also the grounds can possibly get into the snakes sense of smell and clog it up or his eyes. But thats my

[T&C Exotics]

I would also be worried about bacteria growth, the grounds getting into water bowl and making it into coffee, being ingested by the snake, and many other things... I don't think it would be a good idea honestly.

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[bcr229]

I wouldn't use it as substrate. OTOH it does make awesome fertilizer and/or compost for a tomatoes and berry bushes.

[Archimedes]

Yeah I've been sitting here mulling it over, and aside from the cons you guys mentioned, I'd be worried about the caffeine content as well. I might be slightly more willing if there were a way to take just the decaf beans, but unfortunately, they all get combined in a tray before being dumped in the grounds bucket. I guess that's a no then, thanks for your input! I think I will see about setting up a little indoor tomato garden though. Nothing like home grown tomatoes.