Cinnamon, a common kitchen spice, offers natural advantages for plant health. This aromatic powder is a practical, versatile tool for various gardening needs, helping maintain a thriving garden.
Why Use Cinnamon in Plant Soil
Cinnamon benefits plant health as a natural fungicide, mild pest deterrent, and rooting aid. Its antifungal properties, notably cinnamaldehyde, inhibit fungal pathogens. This prevents common diseases like damping-off in seedlings, where young plants rot, and suppresses surface molds.
Cinnamon deters garden pests due to its strong odor and cinnamaldehyde, which disrupts insect nervous systems. Ants are repelled, protecting plants. Fungus gnats, attracted to moist soil, are deterred as cinnamon disrupts their life cycle by affecting their larval food source. While not a strong insecticide, it helps manage these nuisance insects.
Cinnamon is also used as a rooting aid for plant cuttings. Though it lacks rooting hormones, its main benefit is antifungal and antimicrobial. Applying cinnamon to cut stems protects vulnerable tissue from infections that cause rot, indirectly supporting new root development, especially for easily rooted species.
Applying Cinnamon to Plant Soil
Cinnamon application varies by gardening need. For seedlings, a light dusting of ground cinnamon powder on the seed-starting mix after planting prevents damping-off by creating a protective layer against fungal pathogens. Similarly, sprinkling cinnamon powder over potting soil deters surface mold.
For plant cuttings, roll the moistened cut end in powdered cinnamon before planting to prevent infections and seal the surface as roots develop. To address fungal issues on foliage, prepare a cinnamon spray by steeping two to three tablespoons of powder in one to two quarts of warm water overnight. Strain and mist affected plant parts.
To deter ants, sprinkle a cinnamon powder barrier around plant bases or along their pathways. For fungus gnats, sprinkle cinnamon directly on the soil surface to disrupt their life cycle by targeting their larval food source. Reapply after watering or every couple of weeks for sustained effectiveness.
Essential Tips for Using Cinnamon
Understanding cinnamon type is important. Most grocery store cinnamon is Cassia, containing higher coumarin levels. Ceylon, or “true cinnamon,” has significantly lower coumarin, making it preferred for larger or prolonged garden use. While high coumarin doses can be concerning, typical gardening amounts pose little risk to plants or people.
Dosage is crucial; too much cinnamon can harm plants. While generally safe, excessive amounts may inhibit growth in plants like tomatoes, peppers, and orchids. Over-application can also acidify or clog soil. Therefore, a light application is usually sufficient.
Cinnamon is not a universal solution for all plant problems. Though it offers antifungal and pest-deterring qualities, it is a mild agent, not a strong chemical treatment. For severe issues, cinnamon serves as a supplement, not a standalone cure. Integrating it into a broader plant care strategy yields the best results.