With its very distinctive yellow hue and its inimitable peppery flavor, turmeric is a spice very popular in gastronomy, particularly in Indian cuisine. No wonder it is nicknamed “Indian saffron”. Thanks to its multiple beneficial properties, it is a real treasure for health. But in addition to coloring and flavoring our dishes, this herbaceous plant is an unexpected ally for taking care of our plants. Discover all its virtues and how to use it in your garden.
What are the benefits of turmeric on your plants?
The benefits of turmeric do not stop there: this substance is also a very valuable ally in the treatment of plants.
Among its main advantages in the garden:
- It treats plant diseases.
- It has a fungicidal action.
- It repels parasites and insects that invade plantations.
When it comes to gardening, you of course have access to a range of chemical fertilizers and industrial pesticides. But, there is no need to remind you, these substances remain harmful to the environment. They can also have dangerous effects on humans and animals. Therefore, to avoid their constant application, it would be good to employ some alternatives based on natural agents. This is why the use of turmeric can be very wise.
You should know that this herbaceous plant contains a substance called “curcumin”: it is a very powerful antioxidant which has remarkable antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. Besides boosting our immune system, it also has amazing benefits on our plants. In particular, it has the power to eliminate many types of diseases: instead of resorting to chemical treatments, simply spread a good quantity of turmeric powder on the infected areas. Thus, you can easily treat certain common pathologies such as powdery mildew, the famous “white powder” which results from a fungus which often attacks crops and plants, particularly during changes in temperature and when humidity is very present.
How to proceed? Prepare a mixture of two parts ash and one part turmeric, to apply directly to the plant. As a bonus, this remedy will also act as a natural pesticide. Thanks to the strong smell of the spice, insects and pests will not damage your plants.
Good to know: instead of buying it, you can easily grow this plant at home from a small piece of turmeric rhizome. So you will enjoy a bountiful harvest at home!
Turmeric, a natural remedy for insect bites
During gardening work, it is difficult to escape small accidental wounds and other insect bites. It is even a common situation to which great gardeners are accustomed. But the most experienced have their own little tips to reduce the pain, including the use of turmeric. It is the perfect remedy to relieve wounds and skin irritations. In fact, this substance has an anti-inflammatory and emollient action, which quickly reduces itching and discomfort. As a bonus, turmeric will disinfect the skin and protect it against a possible risk of infection.
