Using Neem Oil As a Pesticide or Fungicide
Neem oil has become a top-rated product in treating pests and fungal issues among many gardeners. This popularity is mostly due to it being an organic and non-toxic option. But what is neem oil, how is it used to treat plants, and is it really effective in doing so? Keeping on reading this article to find out!
In This Article
What is Neem Oil?
Neem oil is extracted from the seeds of the neem tree, also known as Azadirachtin indica. This tree is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia where it has been used for centuries in treating pests, diseases, as well as in cosmetic products due to its medicinal properties.
The main active ingredient in neem oil which gives it its pesticidal properties is called azadirachtin. When you’re thinking about purchasing neem oil, keep in mind that there are two different types. The first type is cold-pressed neem oil, which contains the active ingredient azadirachtin. The other type is a more processed version called hydrophobic neem oil. This type does not contain azadirachtin, but can still be used to treat some types of pests.
Neem Oil As a Pesticide
When neem oil is applied as a foliar spray, it covers the plant with a protective coating. When insects bite into the plant, the bitter taste and unpleasant taste of neem oil discourages them from feeding further. The oil also works by suffocating pest upon contact, causing them to die. Additionally, neem oil disrupts their life cycle and hormonal balance, making them unable to properly reproduce.
Neem is known to be effective against a wide range of pests including aphids, whiteflies, mealybugs, spider mites, caterpillars, Japanese beetles, and thrips. Neem oil can also be used to repel certain pests such as mosquitoes, ants, and even fleas. It is safe to use on most plants and does not harm beneficial insects such as ladybugs and bees as long as it is applied properly.
Neem oil can also be very beneficial when used as a soil drench. The plant absorbs the oil from the roots and distributes it throughout its system. If any pests feed on the plant, they will end up dying or be repelled by the taste. However, it’s important to be patient when using neem oil as a natural pesticide, because, unlike chemical pesticides, it takes time to show its effects and may not completely get rid of all of your pests.
Neem Oil As a Fungicide
Neem oil can be used to treat a few fungal problems such as powdery mildew, black spot, rust, and downy mildew, although it may not be as effective as other treatments. The oil works by disrupting the life cycle of fungi by preventing spore germination and inhibiting their growth.
It’s important to note that while neem oil can help control fungal problems and prevent them from spreading to other plants up to a certain extent, it cannot completely cure existing problems. So the best way to treat fungal problems is by implementing beneficial practices to prevent it in the first place. These include regularly pruning plants to provide air circulation and not overwatering.
Is Neem Oil Effective?
When young insects or larvae consume neem, it disrupts their development and eventually causes them to die. Adult insects are usually deterred by the unpleasant smell and bitter taste of neem. However, if the insects are not bothered by the sprayed leaves and continue consuming them, neem oil may not be effective.
Neem oil may not eliminate all pests, but it can help manage their population and reduce plant damage. Some of the pests that it has been seen effective against are aphids, scale, mealybugs, whiteflies, and mites. This is because they become coated with the oil and eventually suffocate.
Is Neem Oil Safe to Use?
The use of neem oil is generally considered safe for plants as it only affects pests. When used as directed, neem oil is also safe for humans and pets. However, some people may have skin sensitivities to neem oil, so it is recommended to wear gloves when handling it.
How to Make and Use Neem Oil Spray
You can either buy ready-to-use neem spray or make your own at home easily. For 1 liter of water, add 1.5 or 2 teaspoon of 100% pure, cold-pressed neem oil and a few drops of liquid soap into a spray bottle. Shake the bottle well before applying it to both the top and undersides of leaves as well as the stems. You can also drench the soil with the neem mixture.
Make sure to apply the spray consistently once a week for about a month or until the problem has resolved. Before spraying the entire plant, it’s a good idea to test on a small area or a single leaf to ensure that there are no adverse effects. It’s also best to apply the spray early in the morning or at night to avoid harming pollinators and to prevent leaves from getting burnt due to bright sunlight. Avoid using the spray on newly transplants or on plants that are stressed due to over or underwatering.
FAQ
Is neem oil harmful to bees?
Neem oil can be harmful to bees as it can cause suffocation if sprayed while they are pollinating. To protect bees, it’s best to apply neem oil spray early in the morning or at night after the pollinators have finished feeding. This helps minimize the impact on bee populations.
Is it safe to spray neem oil on vegetables?
Yes, it is safe to use neem oil on vegetables, fruits, and other edible crops. Just make sure to wash them thoroughly before consuming.
Does neem oil deter birds?
Neem oil is mainly used to control insects and diseases in plants. Its use as a bird deterrent is not a common or recommended practice. You should consider alternative methods, such as physical barriers or sound deterrents to keep birds away from your crops.
What is the ratio of neem oil to water?
For 1 liter of water, use 1.5 teaspoon of neem oil and a few drops of liquid soap.
Can neem oil be toxic to plants?
Neem oil is generally considered non-toxic to plants. However, if it is not properly diluted or if you spray the plant in bright sunlight, it can damage the leaves by causing sunburn. So it’s best to properly dilute the oil and spray it early in the morning to avoid these problems.
What is the shelf life of neem oil spray?
The oil itself has a shelf life of 2-3 years if stored properly in a cool and shaded area. Once mixed with water, the spray should be viable for about 2-4 days before it loses its pesticidal properties.
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