Roses enjoy coffee hit

A visit to the Lucy Cole Rose Garden at Mitchell Park in Epuni during spring might have you asking why the roses look so bright and healthy.

The answer can be found in the soil.

Last year Council trialled a soil conditioner called SweetGrounds, made from coffee grounds and naturally occurring minerals.

Results from the trial showed the overall health and well-being of the roses improved significantly.

SweetGrounds is the creation of Nick and Stephanie Fry, owners of Celcius Coffee in Naenae, who won the Green Gold award at the 2011 Wellington Gold Awards for positive sustainable business practices.

Not only is SweetGrounds great for roses, it’s also good for the environment with less waste clogging up drains or going to the landfill.

Council’s Horticultural Manager Judy Robb says SweetGrounds has been such a success she has ordered another tonne.

“We’ve been thrilled with the results and it’s great to be able to support a local business.”

The Frys are grateful for the support from Council for their product.

“We’re delighted with the relationship we’ve had with Council and the support they've shown us."