Insects on the laurel? Natural remedies to protect the plant without pesticides exist, and are simpler than you think. It takes little to save your bushing bush in a healthy and sustainable way.
That laurel is a resistant plant is known, yet it is not always enough. When you see those crumpled or sticky leaves, it comes to think: “And now what do you do?”. Aphids, mealybugs, psilla … perhaps not very familiar names, but obvious damage. Before letting it panic or empty the shelf of the pesticides, it is worth knowing that there are alternatives. And not too complicated.
It is often believed that protecting green requires who knows which products. In reality, sometimes a little boiling water is enough, two cloves of garlic and you’re done. Garlic infusion, grandmother’s classic remedy, really works. It is not miraculous, clear, but it can surprise. And it is always better to spray chemicals on the leaves that, perhaps, will end up in the kitchen.
Because the laurel attracts insects and how to recognize them
To look at them from afar, those laurel bushes seem strong and invincible. But just get closer for a moment to find out that it’s not all so quiet. Green aphids, cotton meads, psilla: small but tenacious parasites. And when they settle, it’s not just an aesthetic problem. The leaves yelling, they bend on themselves, the plant slows down. Often there is that sticky substance, the hole, which also attracts the ants. Or a dark patina, almost soot, a sign that the smoke has come. But what does all this depend on? In many cases, from too much humidity or little air between the fronds. In short, conditions that throat these unwanted guests.
Understanding it in time is half of the work. And, fortunately, the laurel has a recovery force that surprises. If you act early and constantly, the chances of success are high. And no, you don’t need to spend hours studying entomology.
Natural remedies against insects on the laurel
When it turns out that the laurel is under attack, the first reaction is often the race at the nursery. But before opening the wallet, a look at the kitchen might be enough. Because we already have certain remedies at home.
And often it is precisely the simple ones that give the best answers. Sophisticated or unpronounceable names are not needed. Indeed, the more natural a remedy, the more the plant seems to like it. And then there is the advantage that is not a little: to know exactly what is using. No chemical formula, no surprise.
Here are four natural solutions to try:
- Garlic infusion: two crushed wedges, half a liter of boiling water, let it rest for a few hours and then sprayed on the leaves.
- Marseille soap: dissolved in warm water, it works well against aphids. Repeat every 4-5 days.
- Neem oil: delicate on plants but unwelcome to parasites. It is also easily found online.
- Macerato of nettle: double function, nourishes and defends at the same time.
The most important thing? Don’t give up if it doesn’t work at the first attempt. Often you need a little perseverance. But the results, when they arrive, are seen all right.
How to prevent infestations without using pesticides
Those who love gardening know: preventing is always better than cure. And laurel is no exception. Avoid insects is not impossible, just take your hand a little.
For example, it often helps the air circular and discourages parasites. Attention also to the ground: excess humidity is a wedding invitation for certain insects. A curious but effective trick? Plant lavender or rosemary next to it. Not only do they decorate, but remove unwelcome guests.
Finally, watch out for fertilizers. Those too rich in nitrogen make the plant tender, more attractive. Better to opt for something balanced. You don’t need a botanical degree to do it, just a pinch of attention.
And then there is one more thought. Laurel leaves are used in the kitchen. Better to prevent chemical residues from absorbing.
Protecting the plant in a natural way is a simple gesture, but which is good for everyone: to the plant, to the environment, to those who then put that laurel in the sauce.
Photo © Stock.adobe
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