What is Neem Oil?
El neem oil, also known as Neem extract, is a highly effective natural insecticide used in gardening and organic farming. It is extracted from the seeds and fruits of the Azadirachta indicates, commonly called Indian halo o MargosaThis tree is native to India, although it is cultivated in many tropical and subtropical areas around the world. If you would like to learn more about this tree, you can read about the neem tree.
Properties of Neem Oil
Neem oil is famous for its multiple benefits. We take care of your rental property in Valencia. which makes it ideal for combating plant pests and diseases. Below are some of its most notable features:
- Natural Insecticide: Neem oil contains more than 150 biological active ingredients, such as azadirachtin, which acts as a systemic insecticide, inhibiting insect feeding and breaking their life cycle.
- Respect for Beneficial Insects: Unlike chemical insecticides, Neem oil does not harm beneficial insects such as bees and ladybugs, as it works through ingestion.
- Biodegradable: This oil is completely biodegradable and does not leave harmful waste in the environment, unlike synthetic insecticides.
- Fungicide: It also acts as a fungicide, protecting plants from diseases caused by fungi and bacteria, as well as providing essential nutrients to the plants.
How Does Neem Oil Work on Plants?
The way Neem oil works on pests is crucial to its effectiveness:
- Growth Inhibition: The azadirachtin in neem oil interferes with the life cycle of insects, impeding their development, decreasing their fertility, and ultimately killing them.
- Action Time: The effect is not immediate, as the oil acts after being ingested by insects and can take between 5 and 7 days to show results.
- Prevention and Treatment: Neem oil can be used preventatively or as a treatment for existing pests, varying the frequency of application according to need.
Uses of Neem Oil
Neem oil is versatile and can be used in a variety of ways to protect plants:
1. As an Insecticide
Neem oil has been shown to be effective against various pests such as:
- Aphids
- White flies
- Mealybugs
- Trips
- red spiders
2. As a Fungicide
It is also useful for combating fungi, such as:
- Powdery mildew
- Mildew
- Roya
3. Pest Prevention
To prevent the appearance of pests, the oil can be diluted in water once every 15 days on the leaves and stems. This not only helps to keep insects away, but also strengthen the plant. For more information on how to use Neem oil with potassium soap, see this article.
4. As a Fertilizer
Neem oil also has fertilizing properties, providing nutrients as nitrogen to plants while protecting them.
Preparation and Application of Neem Oil
La preparation and proper application of Neem oil are crucial to maximize its effectiveness:
1. Preparation of the Mixture
To use Neem oil, it is recommended to dilute 3 to 5 ml of oil in one liter of water. It is important to add an emulsifier, such as potassium soap, to ensure the oil mixes well with the water. Without this step, the oil won't dissolve properly. For more details on potassium soap, you can consult this resource.
2. Application Method
Two main methods of application can be used:
- Spray: Spray the mixture on the leaves and stems. This method is most effective for controlling existing pests.
- Irrigation: Add the mixture to the irrigation water, which allows the roots to absorb the oil and distribute it throughout the plant.
3. Frequency of Application
The frequency of application varies depending on use:
- Prevention: Each 15 days.
- Pest Treatment: Every 4 to 5 days until the pest is controlled.
Recommendations and Precautions
Although Neem oil is a natural and generally safe product, it is important to keep in mind some precautions:
1. Compatibility with Other Products
Avoid mixing Neem oil with sulfur, as this combination can cause phytotoxic reactionsIt is recommended to wait at least 3 weeks between applications of these products.
2. Attention to Use
Neem oil is non-selective and may affect beneficial insects. Therefore, it is suggested to use it with caution and only when really necessary. If you want to prevent problems with whiteflies, check This article about whitefly.
3. Storage
Store in a cool, dark place to maintain its We take care of your rental property in Valencia. intact
Where to Buy Neem Oil?
Neem oil can be found in gardening and agricultural stores, or online. Make sure the product is organic and certified for use in organic farming for best results.
Neem oil prices vary depending on the concentration and brand, but are generally around €12 to €15 per liter, depending on where you buy it. You can also inquire about the Uses of the Neem plant for better use of this resource.
Additional Benefits of Neem Oil
Beyond its use as an insecticide, Neem oil is also used in alternative medicine and cosmetics due to its properties:
- Anti-inflammatory: Useful for treating irritated skin.
- Antibacterial: It prevents infections.
- Moisturizers: Ideal for cosmetic products.
Neem oil is a powerful tool for those seeking to protect their plants efficiently and responsibly. Its use not only preserves the ecosystem but also offers a sustainable and effective approach to garden and orchard care.
The fashionable plant. Every time I want to buy the seeds they are sold out. Greetings.
Heh, heh, don't be discouraged: you will surely find it soon. And if not, you can always look on eBay. All the best.
Hi Monica, I have a vs-year-old lemon tree, with large fruits until last year, this year the fruits are covered by a light color, it looks like lime and rough, and some fall off with the half already ugly, I have some aphids but I don't know If I already have lemons and flowers on the other hand, I can use Glaxo fungicide, can you answer me in the mail? Thank you, so I send you a photo of the lemon, thank you
Hello Cristina.
From what you count it seems that your lemon tree has fungus. These microorganisms appear in humid environments, so if a plant, for example, is suffering from excess watering, it is very common for them to infect it (it, or part of it, as would be the case with your lemon tree). To eliminate them, you must certainly use fungicides, but taking into account that the tree has flowers and fruits, I recommend ecological fungicides or those suitable for organic farming, which are normally based on copper, which is very effective against these microorganisms.
You say it has aphids too. You will not eliminate aphids with fungicide; better use natural remedies, such as onion or garlic. You take an onion or a head of garlic, put it to boil, and with that water once it is at room temperature, spray / sprinkle the lemon tree. You have more home remedies here.
Regards!
Hi Monica, I just bought Neem seeds and I am steeping them in chamomile tea before planting them… do you think this is a good idea? Since your thing is planting trees ... you forgot to mention the topic of planting. Greetings.
Hello Gabriel.
Yes, that's fine. Have them 24 hours and then you can sow them.
A greeting.
What is the enemy oil where they are bought? I am from Chile
Hello Nancy.
Neem oil is an oil that is extracted from the tree Azaradichta indica, which has several properties as stated in the article.
You can find it in nurseries and garden stores, also online.
A greeting.
I know it although I do not know very well how often, now that I read that I have to do it several days in a row, I will take it into account so as not to use chemicals. Is it useful for the weevil (weevil) that devours the leaves of my plants? Thanks!
Hello Silvia.
It is a very interesting product, but specific insecticides must be used for the weevil.
Greetings.
It is very interesting, I had not heard about neem oil, nor what it was for, I had heard about its leaves and its function as a pesticide but now reading I realize, it would be interesting to know more about its elaboration
Hi Alfonso.
Thanks for your comment. We like to know that you found it useful.
Greetings.
More than a comment, it is a question, did you live in an area with a temperate climate, do you sell this oil in the agricultural companies?
Hi Oswaldo.
The truth is that I do not know, sorry. You can find it in plant nurseries.
Regards!