How to use neem oil in the garden
Neem oils are very popular and are used in so many ways. These oils can be used for acne, skin and hair care, etc… but what I love about the neem oils is that they can also be used in the garden. The oil type that is formulated for garden use has proven to be effective as many gardeners are having much success with these oils winning the war on garden insect pests which can really do lots of damage.
The challenge with many pesticides is they are not environmentally friendly and can cause harm when coming in contact with humans and pets. But what I love about the neem oil is that it’s a gardener’s dream. These oils are environmentally friendly and can be applied to garden ornamental plants even edible gardens.
A little neem history
The neem tree hails from Indian and South Asia, the scientific name for this tree is called the Azadirachta Indica. The neem tree is also grown widely in Sir Lanka and Pakistan, this tree is famous for its medical uses and is dated back to over 4,000 Bc. It is recorded that the neem tree was first called “Sarav Roga Nivarini” which translates a tree that cures all sickness. As said earlier history shows us that this tree has been around for some time and has done a lot of good for generations past.
How does neem oil works?
Neem oils are classified as systemic. Once these oils are applied to the soil it is absorbed by the plant’s roots and is translocated throughout the entire plant’s vascular system, as the host insect feeds on the plant they ingest this oil. Once the oil is ingested the active ingredients go to work by causing the insect spiracles ( their breathing apparatus) to become clogged causing suffocation.
The treated insect may also stop feeding bringing on starvation, discourages the insects from mating, and affect or prevent the larva from maturing. When used as a foliar spray ( spraying the plant’s leaves ) neem oils are more effective on younger plants. Neem oils can take care of a range of garden insect pests, some of these pests include.
- Aphids
- Scales
- Mealybugs
- Thrips
- Whiteflies
- Spider Mites
When should neem oils be used?
Before using neem oil it is best to read and follow the manufacturer’s label. If applied incorrectly can cause damage to plant life, it is always best to test this oil by applying it to a small lower! section of your plant, wait for about a day and check if your plant shows no sign of being damaged then go ahead and make a full application.
Before using ensure that your plants are not water-stressed ( lack of water ). If your plants are water-stress then give your plants a good drink of water and wait a day to ensure that your plants have recovered before applying. Don’t apply these oils if the temperature is too high during summertime. If treating plants in extreme heat this oil can become phototoxic causing the foliage or the leaves to burn. Neem oil should not be applied during cold weather either.
How should neem oil be applied?
When applying neem oil as a foliar spray apply, in the morning or the evening when the weather is cool, Adjust the spray nozzle so that the oil comes out fine and misty, coarse droppings will not be effective, misting with fine droppings will ensure that the entire plant is covered. When spraying, total coverage of leaves both the top and the underside is so important.
Bees and neem oils
It is best to use neem oils when bees are not active which is in the morning or evening. Bees are beneficial insects and we should do all that we can to protect them.
Fungicide application
What I love about the neem oil is that it can be used as a fungicide to protect both your garden ornamental plants and vegetables from powdery mildew and many other disease-causing fungi.
Lawn Grubs
Lawn Grubs can be controlled with neem oils, lawn grubs inhabit the soil and feed on the roots of lawns causing destruction leaving patches of brown grass or spots that are bare. Applying neem oil will eliminate them.
Types of neem oils
- Dust
- Wettable powder
- Emulsifiable concentrates
- Granules
Brands of neem oils
Here are a few of many neem oil brands
- Safer® brand neem oil concentrate 16 oz
- Garden safe neem oil extract
- Organic neem oil bliss 100%
- Garden essentials 16 oz neem oil
- Dyna-gro nem-032 dynem032 pure neem oil-32oz
Additional information about the neem oil
1. Neem oils leave no residual meaning it is biodegradable.
2. It’s organic
3. Is target, Pacific.
4. These oils are broadspectrum taking care of over 200 insect pests.
5. Can be used on indoor plants.
6. Neem oils can be used as a foliar spray or soil drench.
7. Beneficial on garden herbs.
8. Is effective in greenhouses.
9. Garden insect pests cannot build up a resistance against these oils.
The final word
The neem oil is a wonder oil that can do wonders for your garden and landscapes including your vegetable and herb garden. These oils are a gardeners dream which can take care of a host of problems neem oils are worth having to win the war on garden insect pests, safe to use around children and pets biodegradable leaving behind no residual this oil is worth the investment because it can be used in so man ways I encourage you to invest in a product like this and reap a good harvest continually as you fight and win the war on garden insect pests.
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About the author
Norman loves being in the garden, both at home and for his job....
he is 'Natures Little helper' being outdoors, growing his vegetables and flowers from an early age.
Now having spent over 22 years in the profession he want to give some of his knowledge to others...
his vast array of hints and tips you will find scattered over this site will help you no end growing plants in your garden.