Cinnamon is a fantastic flavor that's great for both baking and cooking, but this versatile spice doesn't just belong in the kitchen!
With origins dating back to 2700 BC, cinnamon has been used worldwide in cooking and medicine. Once a highly prized commodity, you can now find ground cinnamon and cinnamon sticks at a fair price in most grocery stores.
But did you know this popular spice also works wonders outside the kitchen?
Here are six ways to use cinnamon in the garden as an efficient insect repellent and a secret addition to make your plants thrive:
1. Get Rid of Ants
Cinnamon effectively kills ants. The powdered spice suffocates the insects when they inhale it, and its scent can make it harder for ants to find food sources. Plus, cinnamon is non-toxic to children and pets, making it a safe and effective solution!
2. Combat Fungal Infections
Sprinkle ground cinnamon on the soil to kill fungi. While cinnamon will fight surface fungi, additional solutions may be needed for more persistent issues. It’s also great for eliminating wild fungi.
3. Protect Seedlings from Diseases
Cinnamon’s antifungal properties make it an excellent tool for protecting seedlings from rot and disease, also known as damping-off. Dusting seeds with cinnamon and keeping moisture in check can protect them until they grow.
4. Rooting and Grafting Plants
Dipping plant cuttings in cinnamon powder before planting can help them become more stable. Cinnamon acts similarly to a rooting hormone, eliminating competition and allowing your plants to grow better.
5. Heal Sick Plants
Sprinkling cinnamon on a plant injured by cutting or other damage can speed up the healing process and protect it from further damage or disease.
6. Keep Mosquitoes Out of the Garden
Sprinkle cinnamon around your plants to keep mosquitoes and other insects away. They dislike the strong smell of cinnamon, allowing you to enjoy your garden in peace—even at night.
