Is It Wise To Use Leaves From Bay Trees To Make Leaf Mold?

Question

I know that some plants like laurel and privet and probably bay inhibit the growth of competing plants around them by producing toxins so should I avoid composting their leaves which may affect the resulting leaf mold?

Answer 1

You can still compost allelopathic plants (compost for six months), but bay leaves are somewhat thick and will take longer to compost. These articles should help:

https://extension.psu.edu/allelopathy-in-the-home-garden

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/basics/what-is-leaf-mold.htm

https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/ilriverhort/2018-08-06-plants-inhibit-other-plants