How Cinnamon Helps Your Plants Thrive

A few years ago I discovered the power of cinnamon to help my seedlings and indoor plants grow and thrive. Not only is it easy to find, since it is a staple ingredient in our kitchen, it is also safe to use compared to other harmful chemicals that can pose unwanted health effects. So I always have a bottle of cinnamon close by to use when I’m growing seedlings under grow lights, in the greenhouse or to use when growing any indoor plants.

I’m sure the suspense is killing you….. how the heck does cinnamon help plants?

There are actually MANY ways it helps to benefit a plant and here they are:

1) Fungicide

Cinnamon has antibacterial and antifungal properties so it helps to prevent fungal disease in seedlings know as dampening off disease, and also older plant fungal diseases as well.

To apply, mix about 2 spoonfuls of cinnamon in a quart mason jar and fill with water. Allow the mixture sit overnight, then strain the mixture with a coffee filter. Add to spray bottle and spray onto the plant and the soil to prevent disease.

2) Rooting Agent

Instead of buying expensive hormone rooting powders, cinnamon can be used instead and is as effective. You can simply dip the stem in water then roll it in cinnamon and plant your cutting in potting soil.

3) Heals Plant Cuttings

When you are pruning or pinching plants, the scissors you use or hands can transfer fungal infections to your plant. To prevent this, simply sprinkle cinnamon to the freshly cut stem to encourage healing and fresh growth.

4) Prevents Rust

Some plants can be susceptible to rust which is a fungal disease. Asters and Calendula are examples of plants that are susceptible. When transplanting simply sprinkle some cinnamon in the soil to prevent this.

5) Deter Pests

Indoor and greenhouse plants are prone to infestations of fungus gnats, spider mites and white flies that can cause a lot of damage to your plants. To prevent this sprinkle cinnamon on the soil around the plant. It is also good practice to not over water your plants and also for your house plants add some little pebbles or rocks on the surface to prevent bugs from laying eggs in the soil.

6) Prevents Mold and Mildew Growth in Soil

Although the unsightly molds on the soil may not necessarily kill your plant, it may slow it’s growth so to prevent this, do no over water your plants, and also sprinkle some cinnamon on the surface of the soil

It is definitely clear to me, cinnamon is a great ally to use to keep your plants healthy. So pull that spice out of the kitchen pantry and sprinkle that spice around like confetti!

Happy Growing!