Nature has blessed man with a number of wonders. Of all, plants are found to be its best boon. Among them, neem is distinguished by their astonishing versatility. Neem is such a fascinating tree that no other tree probably has provided wide range of benefits to mankind.
Neem ( Azadirachta Indica ) is a tropical evergreen tree native to India and also found in South-east countries. Neem is called “arista” in Sanskrit which means ‘perfect, complete and imperishable’. The seeds, bark and leaves contains compound with proven antiseptic, anti-pyretic, anti-ulcer, antiviral and anti-fungal properties.
Neem oil is used as a pesticide in Organic Agriculture because it is 100% biodegradable and non-toxic. It has no effect on natural parasites and helps in keeping an ecological balance.
Neem has a “systemic” effect which let plants take up neem extracts through their roots and leaves, spreading the material throughout the plant tissues. Neem oil is made of many components. Azadirachtin is the most active. It reduces insect feeding and acts as a repellant. It also interferes with insect hormone systems, making it harder for insects to grow and lay eggs. Literature confirms that neem can effectively get rid of over 200 pest species that affects plants.
Neem works as an Insect growth regulator, an organic insecticide, a fungicide and as a soil conditioner / organic manure.
Method for Preparing Neem to use as foliar spray
- Use a high quality cold pressed oil and warm water.
- Mix the warm water with the soap first.
- Then slowly add the oil while stirring vigorously.
- Fill the mix into your sprayer.
- Keep shaking or otherwise agitating the mix while spraying.
- Use the mixture within eight hours.
Applications:
Spray insecticide solution on all the leaves
Always make a fresh batch for spraying
Spray once a fort night
Additional Benefits of Neem
Neem leaves: It is used for termite control.
Neem Oil : It is extracted from seeds and used for spraying to control pest.
Neem Seed Cake : It is the residue after oil extraction and added to amend soil to enrich organic matter and inhibit nitrification.
Neem Bark / Roots: It is used to control ticks and fleas.
See also:
How to use Neem as an Effective Organic Pesticide?
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