NEEM OIL
Neem Oil can be used to
treat a number of garden challenges, including:
Insects: Neem oil kills or
repels many harmful insects and mites, including aphids, caterpillars, whiteflies, snails,
nematodes, mealybugs, cabbage worms, gnats, moths, cockroaches, flies,
termites, mosquitoes, and scale. It kills some bugs outright, attacks the
larvae of others, and repels plant eaters with its bitter taste.
Fungus: Neem oil is also
effective in preventing fungal diseases such as mildew, black spot, anthracnose
and rust.
Disease: Neem oil also
combats viruses that can harm plants.
Active Ingredient- Azadirachtin is the most active ingredient in Neem
Oil. It reduces insect feeding, and acts
as an insecticide and repellant. It also
arrests the metamorphosis of insects at all stages- egg, caterpillar, pupae and
adulthood. For example, Azadirachtin interferes with insect hormone systems,
making it harder for insects to grow and lay eggs. Azadirachtin can also repel and reduce the
feeding of nematodes.
Advantages of Neem Oil- Neem oil is a popular choice in organic
gardens because it is:
·
Nontoxic: Neem Oil is
considered nontoxic to humans, birds, and other animals as well and can be used
on fruits, vegetables, and flowering plants.
·
Organic: Neem Oil is derived
from organically-grown neem trees.
·
Biodegradable: Neem Oil breaks
down quickly and leaves no lasting residue.
For Spray bottle:
üAdd 2ml (.5 teaspoons) liquid soap (we recommend black
soap) to a 1.5l water bottle (3/4 full); shake vigorously.
ü Add 5ml (1 teaspoon) neem oil to the soap mixture and shake
vigorously.
ü Pour into spray bottle and apply.
For 15 litre spray pack:
ü Add 20ml (4 teaspoons) liquid soap (we recommend black soap) to a 1.5l water bottle (3/4 full); shake vigorously.
ü Add 50ml (10 teaspoons) neem oil to the soap mixture and shake vigorously.
ü Pour the mixture into 15l sprayer containing the remaining water.
*Please spray all aspects of the plant, especially under the leaves.
*A 250ml bottle of Neem Oil covers about 1 acre. A 1-litre bottle covers about 4 acres.
*Spraying is most effective when done after 4 p.m.
*It is best to keep the bottle out of direct sunlight and heat- in a cool, dry place.
