# Effects of raw and thermally processed spent coffee grounds on Miscanthus × giganteus plantation: Data description

## TL;DR

This study explores how using spent coffee grounds and biochar can improve soil and crop growth in marginal areas.

## Contribution

The study provides new data on the effects of spent coffee grounds and biochar on Miscanthus × giganteus growth and soil quality.

## Key findings

- Spent coffee grounds and biochar amendments improved M×g biomass growth and photosynthesis.
- Soil pH and elemental composition were positively affected by the amendments.
- The study offers datasets on plant and soil elemental composition and nutrient leaching behavior.

## Abstract

Cultivating Miscanthus × giganteus (M×g) energy crop on marginal soil supports phytoattenuation and provides high-energy biomass for biofuel production. Improving nutrient-poor soil with low-cost recovered organic amendments, such as spent coffee grounds (SCG) and SCG-derived biochar (BC) offers sustainable benefits. This data article presents the findings from a medium-term greenhouse experiment at the Gdansk University of Technology assessing M×g cultivation on marginal soil with SCG and BC amendments into soil. In a pot-scale experiment the medium term-effect on M×g biomass growth, photosynthesis parameters, root tissues development, as well as final elemental composition was examined. Soil pH and elemental composition were also determined. As global coffee consumption increases, large quantities of SCG are generated and often landfilled. Their beneficial reuse aligns with circular economy principles and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 7 and 13), providing both a short-term nutrient source and a means of improving soil quality and resilience. The article compiles five datasets detailing: (1) M×g growth parameters, tissue development, and photosynthetic indices, (2) nutrient and caffeine leaching behaviour; and (3) elemental composition of plants and soils following exposure. These datasets, available in the Bridge of Knowledge Gdansk University of Technology repository, provide a resource for environmental researchers, soil and plant scientists, biochar specialists, and decisionmakers working to restore marginal soil usability. This study promotes sustainable land management by demonstrating how organic wastes and biochar can be combined to improve crop performance, sequester carbon, and reduce nutrient losses while minimizing external fertilizer inputs.

Image, graphical abstract