Rooting plants takes time and patience, and though many people resort to buying rooting powder to help foster root growth, you can use a spice that is likely right in your kitchen cupboard to achieve similar results. Turmeric can be an invaluable addition to the soil when attempting to root plants.
The spice has long been known as an agent of health benefits in humans, and the anti-inflammatory spice can also help plants thrive. Best of all, the process is incredibly easy, too. When you prepare your soil for planting in a pot, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of powdered turmeric into the soil and mix it thoroughly before you add the new cuttings. Then, simply plant the cutting as you normally would, and water it evenly to ensure the soil is moist in all areas. The plant will soon reap the benefits of the turmeric-rich soil as the spice promotes root growth.
Other uses of turmeric for plants
This simple spice can do a lot more than just encourage root growth. Even when planting fully grown plants, turmeric can help by protecting roots from root rot. If you grow roses, it can help treat rose dieback disease, a condition that causes the tip of rose branches to turn black and can lead to plant death. Simply make a paste made from turmeric and water, and then lather the paste on the parts of the branches that are affected. Turmeric also guards plants against ants and flies.
One of the biggest advantages of adding turmeric to garden soil is that it is a natural bug repellent, helping to keep away ants, beetles, and mites. Similarly, if you notice a bug problem anywhere in the garden, you can pour turmeric powder over the area. This not only helps the soil and plants, but you’ll avoid using chemical repellents that may damage your garden.
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