Uses of Bay Laurel as an Insecticide: What Insects It Repels and How to Use It

When it comes to controlling insects and pests, people are very divided. Many opt for ease and speed: chemical insecticides. On the other hand, there are growing proponents of natural remedies to treat and prevent both plant diseases and pests. They are less harmful to plants, animals, the environment and, therefore, to us. In this article we will talk on the uses of laurel as an insecticide, An effective and simple alternative to chemical insect repellents.

Not only will we mention some of the applications that this vegetable has to fight and treat various pests, but we will also comment on the insects against which it acts and explain how to make an insecticide with its leaves. So now you know: if you are having trouble with very annoying insects or if you prefer to prevent their appearance, continue reading, you will be interested.

What insects does bay laurel repel?

The famous laurel, scientifically called laurus nobilisis a Mediterranean tree that usually reaches a height of ten to fifteen meters. It is cultivated mainly for its perennial and aromatic leaves, They are very popular in the kitchen. In addition, they have medicinal properties, which is why they are used in many natural folk medicine remedies. However, what really interests us are the uses of bay laurel as an insecticide.

Why does this plant repel certain insects? This effect on certain pests This is due to the composition of its leaves. These contain substances such as alpha-pinene, alpha-terpineol, cineole, eugenol, linalool, limonene and sabinene. All help repel some of the insects that are very common and annoying pests in the world of agriculture and gardening. Let’s see which insects bay leaves are effective against:

• Weevils: Small insects that feed mainly on cereals. See file.
• Ants: They promote the multiplication of other pests, such as mealybugs and aphids. See file.
• Flies: If nothing is done, extremely annoying parasites can appear. See file.
• mosquitoes: They tend to lay their eggs in moist places, including saucers of flowerpots. See file.
• aphids: They are tiny insects that feed on plants. See file.

Note that the laurel not only repels these insects, but also attracts others, such as vaquitas or ladybugs. And why is this a good thing? Well, ladybugs and vaquitas are excellent allies for farmers and market gardeners. Both are natural predators some of the insects that can become major crop pests, such as aphids and scale insects.

How to make insecticide with bay leaves?

Creating a natural insecticide to repel or combat certain pests is very beneficial for both plants and the environment. Moreover, they are usually very simple mixtures, as is the case with bay leaf. To begin this task, we must first know the proportions. For ten liters of water we must use 300 grams of fresh bay leaves or 200 grams of dried bay leaves.

Now let’s see step by step how to make an insecticide with bay leaves:

1. Place the leaves in a large container or bucket. We can cut the leaves if we prefer.
2. To add two liters of boiling water then cover the container or bucket.
3. Wait for the mixture to cool.
4. Add eight more liters of water (a total of ten liters are needed).
5. Partially cover the container or bucket and place it in a cool, dark place.
6. Let stand for 48 hours.
7. Once the standing time has passed, strain the liquid and store it in the refrigerator. It can last up to a month.

In case we want to use this mixture to prevent pests, we must spray the plants by diluting one part of this macerate with two parts of water. For this to take effect, the plants must be watered in the afternoon, at the last moment, for two weeks in a row. Then it is very important to let them rest a little. It is advisable to wait at least two more weeks before repeating the spraying.

If our garden or orchard is already affected by a pest, things change. In this case, the laurel macerate must be diluted with water in equal parts. As for the spraying of vegetables, this must be carried out every three days. As in the previous case, it is best to do this in the late afternoon.

Other Uses of Bay Laurel as an Insecticide

The uses of laurel as an insecticide are not limited to the mixture that we have previously commented on. The leaves of this vegetable can also be used to repel other types of insects, such as clothes moths. To do this, simply place a few bay leaves between the clothes, either on the dresser or in the closet. That way the butterflies won’t want to come near.

Another way to use this plant as an insecticide is to apply laurel essential oil. This is very useful when repel flies and mosquitoes. For this to take effect, simply apply a little of this oil to pieces of cloth or paper and place them in the entry areas of these annoying insects. A good place would be, for example, the windows. It may also be a good idea to place these laurel essential oil pieces near doors and ventilation ducts.

As you can see, the laurel will not only be useful in the kitchen, but also to repel many insects, whether inside the house or in our orchard or garden. An economical and ecological measure which makes it possible to fight against the use and manufacture of chemical products. If you want to take advantage of all the uses that laurel can be given, I recommend that you consider growing it yourself. Fortunately, it is a vegetable whose maintenance is easy and which brings us many benefits if we use it correctly.