Can You Use Cinnamon on Plants? The Surprising Benefits & How to Apply It

Why Gardeners Swear By Cinnamon

Cinnamon isn’t just for baking—it’s a powerhouse natural remedy for plants! This cheap, organic solution can:

✅ Prevent fungal infections (like damping-off disease)
✅ Speed up root growth (works like a rooting hormone)
✅ Repel pests (ants, gnats, and even some molds)
✅ Heal plant wounds (protects cuttings from rot)

Best of all, it’s non-toxic and safe for pets!

5 Proven Ways to Use Cinnamon on Plants

1. Rooting Hormone Alternative

Instead of synthetic rooting gels, dip cuttings in cinnamon powder before planting.

How it works:

• Cinnamon’s natural antimicrobial properties prevent rot.
• Encourages faster root development.

Steps:

1. Cut a healthy stem.
2. Moisten the end slightly.
3. Dip in cinnamon powder.
4. Plant as usual.

(Tip: Works best on herbs like mint and basil!)

2. Fungus Fighter (For Seedlings & Soil)

Cinnamon is a natural antifungal, perfect for preventing damping-off disease (a common killer of seedlings).

How to Apply:

• Sprinkle cinnamon on seedling soil.
• Mix 1 tsp cinnamon in 1 cup water, spray on affected plants.

(Warning: Don’t use on edible plants right before harvest—strong flavor!)

3. Pest Repellent (Ants, Gnats, & More)

Hate fungus gnats? Cinnamon disrupts their life cycle.

DIY Gnat Control:

1. Mix 1 tbsp cinnamon in 1 quart water.
2. Let sit overnight.
3. Strain and spray on soil.

For Ants:

• Draw a cinnamon barrier around pots—ants hate the smell!

4. Wound Healing for Pruned Plants

After pruning, dust cuts with cinnamon to prevent infections.

Why it works:

• Seals the wound like a natural bandage.
• Stops bacteria/fungi from entering.

(Great for orchids, succulents, and roses!)

5. Soil Booster (Prevents Mold & Rot)

If your potting soil smells musty, cinnamon can help!

Quick Fix:

• Lightly sprinkle cinnamon on topsoil to stop mold growth.

(Bonus: Adds a pleasant scent to indoor plants!)

FAQs About Cinnamon for Plants

1. Is cinnamon safe for all plants?

Yes! But avoid excessive amounts—it can dry out some sensitive plants.

2. Can I use cinnamon essential oil instead?

No—essential oils are too strong and may burn plants. Stick to powdered cinnamon.

3. How often should I apply cinnamon?

• For pests/fungus: Every 1-2 weeks.
• For cuttings: Just once at planting.

4. Does cinnamon kill beneficial soil microbes?

No—it mainly targets harmful fungi & bacteria, not earthworms or mycorrhizae.

5. Can cinnamon revive a dying plant?

It won’t cure severe root rot, but it helps prevent further infection when repotting.

Final Verdict: Should You Use Cinnamon?

✔ Pros: Cheap, natural, effective for fungus/pests, pet-safe.
✖ Cons: Not a cure-all (won’t fix severe diseases).

Best for:

• Seed starting
• Rooting cuttings
• Preventing mold & pests