Modern man perceives bay leaf exclusively as a seasoning for dishes. But this plant has performed many more functions for centuries.
It has insecticidal and bactericidal properties, so bay leaf was used for medicinal and disinfectant purposes.
In the 21st century, many more effective and easy-to-use products have appeared, which, however, are not always safe for human health. Therefore, gardeners who are tired of using chemicals are increasingly resorting to old methods of combating diseases and pests.
What is the secret of bay leaf
Bay leaf contains substances that have a negative effect on pathogens and insects. Its main strength is in essential oils, which have the ability to evaporate, producing a characteristic smell.
Thanks to this, laurel infusion is used to humidify the air in homes in order to simultaneously rid the home of unpleasant odors and repel insects.
Before the advent of various sprays and ointments, people smeared their skin with a decoction of laurel to protect themselves from mosquitoes, and hung bunches of twigs in window openings to keep flies out of the house. Cockroaches also don’t like laurel, so it was placed in their favorite places.
In the garden, this plant has the same effect. Gardeners spray plants with laurel decoction to repel pests. But the problem is that a lot of this spice is needed to achieve a lasting result, so the cost of such a folk remedy is considerable.
But there is a more economical way to use bay leaves.
Why burn bay leaves in a greenhouse
In ancient Rome, laurel was burned and smoke was used to fumigate living quarters and sick people's rooms to improve the air quality. This method has been adopted by gardeners who have a greenhouse.
All you need to do is bring smoldering coals from a fire or barbecue into the greenhouse, put laurel leaves on them, close the greenhouse and leave it to “soak” in smoke for 6–12 hours.
This procedure replaces the use of sulfur or tobacco smoke. But, unlike them, it does not contain toxic substances.
It is important that the leaves do not burn, but slowly smolder on the coals, releasing a lot of smoke rich in essential oils, phytoncides, tannins and other substances.
Many pests do not tolerate such treatment. Spider mites suffer from it especially. Laurel is destructive for this insect. It is not for nothing that in indoor floriculture plants are sprayed with an infusion of leaves to rid them of spider mites. But in a greenhouse, spraying will require a large amount of this spice, and 2-4 packs are enough for fumigation.
