Cinnamon, a common kitchen spice derived from the inner bark of Cinnamomum trees, offers gardeners a natural remedy for various plant challenges. The aromatic compounds in the ground powder, especially cinnamaldehyde, possess natural antifungal and mild antibacterial properties. Leveraging these qualities supports healthier plant growth without synthetic chemicals. This spice is a versatile tool for propagation, disease prevention, and physical protection.
Promoting Successful Cuttings
Cinnamon can be used as a substitute for commercial rooting hormone when propagating new plants from stem cuttings. While it lacks auxins that stimulate root growth, its primary benefit is infection prevention. The antifungal action protects the fresh cut from rot and decay while the plant develops new roots.
To use cinnamon, moisten the basal end of the cutting with water. Dip the wet end directly into ground cinnamon, ensuring the cut surface is completely coated. This protective layer acts as a barrier against soil-borne pathogens. Once coated, the cutting can be planted immediately into its rooting medium.
Addressing Fungal Issues
Cinnamon’s fungicidal properties are beneficial for combating soil-borne diseases affecting young plants. A primary concern is “damping off,” where seedlings collapse at the soil line due to fungal infection. This disease is caused by pathogens that thrive in moist, cool conditions, attacking the stem base of newly sprouted seedlings.
Applying a light dusting of dry cinnamon powder to the soil surface helps suppress the growth of these fungi. This creates an unfavorable environment for the pathogens, allowing the seedling to mature past its most delicate stage. This application is a preventative measure, best used immediately after sowing seeds or at the first sign of mold developing on the soil surface. Reapply the powder lightly after watering, as the compounds diffuse into the top layer of the potting mix.
Protecting Plant Wounds and Soil
Cinnamon serves as a physical barrier and antiseptic for injured plants, in addition to disease control. When pruning, transplanting, or if a stem is accidentally snapped, the resulting wound is an entry point for disease organisms. Applying cinnamon powder directly to the freshly cut or damaged area helps seal the wound and prevent secondary infection.
Cinnamon’s strong scent also acts as a natural irritant and barrier against small pests like fungus gnats and ants. Fungus gnats, attracted to moist soil, can be deterred by sprinkling a thin layer of cinnamon across the topsoil of potted plants. To manage ants, create a perimeter line of cinnamon powder around the base of the plant or container, disrupting their foraging paths.
Selecting the Right Type of Cinnamon
For gardening purposes, the common ground cinnamon found in most grocery stores is effective and sufficient. This variety is typically Cassia cinnamon, which is widely available and contains cinnamaldehyde. While Ceylon cinnamon, often called “true cinnamon,” is also effective, its higher cost and lower availability make Cassia the practical choice for garden application. Ensure the product is pure ground cinnamon without added sugar or other flavorings, and store it in a dry, airtight container to maintain potency.