How Cinnamon Can Benefit Your Garden Seedlings
Spring gardening season is in full swing here at Stettler's Cabin. Like many gardeners, we've been busy planting tomato and cabbage seedlings, eager to nurture them into healthy, productive plants. But as every early gardener knows, the damp soil that seedlings love can attract fungus gnats—tiny pests that damage delicate roots and stunt young plants.
Cinnamon: An Unexpected Gardening Hero
Cinnamon, the common kitchen spice, is a natural deterrent for fungus gnats. By simply sprinkling cinnamon powder on the soil around your seedlings, you can create a protective barrier without using harsh chemicals.
Why Cinnamon Works
Cinnamon contains natural antifungal properties. It prevents the growth of fungus that gnats feed on and lay their eggs in. By eliminating their food source, cinnamon helps discourage gnats from invading your seedlings, all while preserving beneficial organisms in your garden soil.
Using Cinnamon as a Rooting Compound
Cinnamon also makes an excellent natural rooting hormone. When propagating or transplanting, dipping the cut ends of your plant stems into cinnamon powder can stimulate root development and prevent fungal infections. This simple step increases your plants' chances of establishing strong, healthy root systems.
How to Use Cinnamon in Your Garden
- For Fungus Gnats: Lightly sprinkle cinnamon powder directly onto the soil around your seedlings.
- As a Rooting Agent: Dip fresh plant cuttings into cinnamon powder before planting them in soil.
At Stettler’s Cabin, we’re passionate about natural, effective solutions that help your garden thrive. Give cinnamon a try this season and let us know your results!
Here's a great video from Pretty in Green on YouTube talking about some of these findings! Watch the video.