How to use neem oil as a pesticide.
Neem oil is a natural pesticide used in gardens. It is extracted from the seeds of the neem tree. Neem oil contains a substance called azadirachtin which helps to control pests such as mealy bugs, thrips, spider mites, whiteflies, fungus gnats, leafhoppers and Japanese beetles. It can also be used to treat fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, leaf spot, scab anthracnose and black spot.
Things needed to make neem oil pesticide for your garden.
- Cold-pressed neem oil
- Liquid soap
- Spray bottle
How to use neem oil as a pesticide.
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Take one gallon of water and mix a few drops of liquid soap in it. This acts as an emulsifier. Next, add 1-2 tablespoons of neem oil to the mixture. If you are taking 1 litre of water you can add 5ml of neem oil.
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Now add this solution to a spray bottle and use it on a small portion of your plant. Wait for 24 hours and if your plant is not damaged by this you can use it for your entire plant.
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You can apply neem oil to your plants during the early morning and late evening periods. Avoid using it during the afternoon period as it can damage the plant foliage.
You can use neem oil on your plants once in 3 weeks as a preventative measure. You can also use neem cake as a soil amendment before you plant anything. Neem cake is another product that is made from neem seeds. You can mix it with the soil before you plant anything.
If your plants are affected by any pests you can use neem oil once in 3 days. Repeated application of neem oil is needed to get rid of pests completely.
You can use neem oil directly on your vegetable plants but make sure to wash your vegetables thoroughly before you consume them.