Have you heard or ever used neem oil? It’s a miracle natural oil that has plenty of health benefits for both humans and our gardens. It can get rid of garden pests naturally, but more importantly, it’s a non-toxic alternative to pesticides that can ruin your produce.
Using neem oil in your garden is an environmentally-friendly move and an economic solution too. It’s a very effective way of getting rid of pesky pests. It’s not a new thing – neem oil has been used for centuries as a pest repellent, beauty product, and for its medicinal benefits. While people have forgotten a bit of it due to pesticide solutions, it’s now making a comeback as gardeners are interested in organic produce. The best thing about neem oil is that you can prepare it yourself or buy it ready-made from the store.
What is Neem Oil?
Neem oil is an oil derived from an ancient tree. People use it as a natural remedy and beauty product and as a natural pest repellent too. You can easily find neem oil products in stores that are ready to use. Then there are concentrates that need to be mixed and diluted with water and dish soap before you use them in your garden.
If you buy the ‘Ready to use’ neem oil, you just need to follow the instructions on the label. Concentrated products seem a bit harder to use, but the instructions will tell you how to mix them properly and use to prevent aphids and other pests.
Using Neem Oil
Before you even start using neem oil, you need to determine what kind of pest you’re fighting. The oil is effective against aphids, beetle larvae, caterpillars, and similar soft-bodied pests. Leaf hoppers and spider mites are also no match for it. However, it won’t work against squash bugs. The oil keeps the pests naturally away from your garden, suffocating insects as they feed. It is especially effective for active infestations where nothing else has worked.
Unlike pesticides, the oil has no negative effects. It won’t harm birds and it doesn’t pose danger to your home. Follow the instructions on the label and you’ll keep your plants pest-free while also preventing pesky fungi from growing on them.
Which Plants Can Neem Oil Treat?
Neem oil is an excellent solution for treatment of all houseplants as well as outdoor flowers and veggies such as squash. Before using it, try it on a single leaf to see its effects. If there are none, you can proceed to using it on your plant.
In terms of applying, it works best in the morning or evening. This is because neem oil can sometimes burn leaves in high heat, so avoid applying it in mid-day. Since it works against indoor and outdoor pests, it can keep your home free of them all year round. However, be prepared to let it work. It takes a bit of time, so it might be a few days before you see its effects.
