Blond is one of the most widely used aromatic herbs in Portuguese cuisine, providing a characteristic flavor to several traditional dishes. However, the price of bay leaves in the supermarket can be high, exceeding 70 euros per kilo. For those who want a more economical and more affordable alternative, cultivating bay leaf at home is one can be the ‘ideal’ solution.
Where and when to plant bay
The bay plan, also known as blonde, can be grown both outside and home. The best time to start its cultivation is in spring or early summer, when temperatures are milder and favorable to plant growth.
To grow healthily the Loureiro needs plenty of sun exposure. If it is kept indoors, it should be placed near a window that allows natural light to enter. The plant is also sensitive to intense cold, so if cultivated abroad, it is recommended to protect it on colder days, especially when temperatures fall below 10 degrees.
Vase and soil choice
The vessel chosen to plant the bay leaf should have holes at the base to ensure good drainage, thus avoiding a large accumulation of water. The soil needs to be airy and maintain a pH between 4.5 and 8.3, and the ideal is between 6 and 7. These care helps to avoid the rotting of the roots and ensure the balanced development of the plant.
The watering of the blonde should be done in moderation. Although the plant likes a slightly moist soil, excess water can be harmful and lead to the rotting of the roots. The ideal is to water whenever the superficial layer of the earth is dry to the touch.
Need for fertilizers
If the laurel is cultivated in a vase, especially indoors, it is recommended to use organic fertilizers, particularly during spring. Outside, the plant can obtain the necessary nutrients directly from the soil, dispensing with the need for frequent fertilization.
Prevention of pests and diseases
Another essential aspect in the cultivation of Loureiro is the prevention of pests and diseases. Even indoors, the plant can be affected by fungi or insects. It is important to be aware of signs such as leaf spots, discoloration or abnormal foliage fall, as they may indicate health problems in the plant.
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Bay leaves can be harvested as soon as the plant reaches a suitable size. However, it is advisable never to remove more than a third of foliage at once, to ensure that the plant continues to grow healthy and produce new leaves.
The Loureiro in History
According to the portal, the history of Loureiro dates back to antiquity, when it was associated with the nobility and victories. Greeks and Romans used crowns made with bay branches to honor kings, warriors and athletes highlighted at the Olympic Games of the time. In addition to its use in cooking, Loureiro is also appreciated in decorating gardens and balconies. In pots can reach a height of up to two meters, becoming an excellent option for beautifying outdoor and interior spaces.
Growth and pruning
Bay growth is relatively slow, just a few centimeters a year, which makes this plant ideal for vase cultivation. Regular pruning helps control its size and maintain a more compact and aesthetic shape.
LEAK FLAVOR INTENSITY
If the goal is to use the sheets to cook, they tend to develop a more intense flavor when the plant receives full sun for at least one part of the year. Thus, ensuring good sun exposure will contribute to more aromatic leaves.
Note that cultivating bay leaf at home is a simple and advantageous practice. With proper care it is possible to ensure a constant supply of fresh leaves to enrich the dishes of Portuguese cuisine, avoiding the high costs of purchase in the supermarket.
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