How to Use Cinnamon as Rooting Hormone (Step by Step)

You might’ve seen folks on social media using cinnamon powder as a natural rooting hormone. While I don’t have concrete proof that cinnamon is a surefire way to root plants, I can share my personal experience to encourage you to try it yourself.

I once had a stubborn plant that refused to root for about a month. My patience dwindling, I was ready to try a rooting hormone. I knew it could help, but this was my first time reaching for this solution. So, I purchased some cinnamon powder.

By the way, I used regular store-bought cinnamon. Don’t fret over the type or brand of cinnamon powder – any variety will do.

And guess what happened? It rooted in just two days. I was so ecstatic about this “cinnamon revelation” that I completely forgot to take a picture. Talk about a missed opportunity! So, I’m confident it was the cinnamon that did the trick.

Grind Fresh Cinnamon Sticks into Powder

You can use pre-ground cinnamon powder, but ensure it’s fine and smooth. Also, don’t forget to check the ingredients to prevent any additives from reaching the stems.

Many companies use sugar to thicken the cinnamon, which could cause adverse effects to your plants.

Use a mortar and pestle to achieve a perfect cinnamon consistency. Fresh cinnamon sticks don’t contain traces of other seasonings as you might find in pre-ground bottles and jars. 

Grind it about as fine and soft as powdered sugar, then get ready to prepare your plant’s stems.

Cut the Stems to a 45-Degree Angle and Trim Them

Trimming your plant’s stems will allow them to soak up all of the water and cinnamon nearby. 

A flat cut is decent, but cutting the stem at a 45-degree angle allows for maximum absorption Use sharp scissors or an Exacto knife to cut the stems to prevent uneven edges.

Once you’re done cutting the stems at the perfect angle, follow these steps:

1. Snip off every flower or budding flower from the plant. Flowers demand a lot of nutrients and energy from the plant, which takes away some of the much-needed attention from the roots.
2. Cut all of the leaves that might dip into the water or soil. Again, they’re not the best for promoting a healthy growing environment for the roots. Always cut the flowers and extra leaves at the base closest to the stem to prevent further growth.
3. Remove excess dead leaves and other extensions. The plant will naturally try to revitalize these limbs, which removes the nutrients from the roots. The water, nutrients, and cinnamon can focus on root growth rather than bringing back the leaves.

Trimming your plants before adding the cinnamon is a crucial and irreplaceable step. 

Without it, your plant might never grow roots. I’ve noticed plants grow much faster when they have fewer limbs to focus on!

Consider Adding Honey to Hold the Cinnamon

Honey is an integral part of using cinnamon as a rooting hormone for many people. I’ve successfully used honey because it packs a double punch as a bonding agent and natural nutrient booster.

So, how can you use honey with cinnamon to grow plants?

Honey Holds Cinnamon to the Exposed Stem

Dip the base in water and cinnamon to keep it stuck to the exposed stem. If you want to prevent the cinnamon from flaking off when placing it in the water, dip it in honey before the cinnamon.

Honey is thick and holds the cinnamon to the stem without dripping or crumbling. 

Honey Provides Antibacterial Properties and Nutrients

Honey is loaded with more than enough nutrients to make it worthwhile. Plenty of minerals make honey the perfect addition to your cinnamon-coated stems. There’s no need to worry about fungus flies, spiders, and other pests, too. (Source)

Note: Dip the stems into half of an inch of cinnamon. You can dip them straight into the jar or pour a mound of cinnamon on a paper towel and roll the stem tips in it.

Submerge the Cinnamon-Coated Stem Halfway in Water

Whether or not you use honey, you’ll have to submerge the stem in water about halfway up the stem. Ensure none of the limbs are under the water. 

Use an enclosed container for the water, then place it close to the window or outside for maximum sunlight.

Keep these tips in mind:

• Submerge the stems slowly. You don’t want to break the cinnamon off or mix it into the water. The goal is to keep as much of it on the exposed tip of the stem as possible.
• You can purify the water through a filter to prevent chlorine and other contaminants found in tap water from entering the stem. This step will drastically increase the root’s growth.

Dip the Roots in Cinnamon Powder and Plant Them in the Soil

Wait until the roots grow a couple of inches before removing the plant from the water. Gently brush the cinnamon (and honey, if applicable) off of the stems and roots.

At this point, you can transfer the propagated plant to a pot or into the ground. However, I always enjoy dipping the roots in water and cinnamon before the transfer. 

This process prevents fungus and bacteria from growing on the roots.

The rest of the growth process remains the same. Use your preferred fertilizer and provide enough sunlight and water for the plant.

Use Cinnamon as an Antifungal Agent

Cinnamon helps plants grow by preventing infections and root rot. That being said, it doesn’t contain hormones to grow stems; It simply accelerates the growth by limiting external factors from causing issues.

Sprinkle cinnamon on top of the soil to prevent pests from coming near your plants. 

It’s perfectly safe to combine cinnamon with other store-bought or natural rooting hormones, as long as everything makes contact with the exposed part of the stem.

Proceed with Care When Using Cinnamon

In doing a bit of research, I found out that cinnamon powder does possess antiseptic properties. Considering the quick turnaround in my unrooting plant, I’m inclined to think cinnamon has certain advantages.

I’ve penned an article on how to safely use cinnamon for your plants – it might just be the green thumb hack you’ve been looking for!

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