The neem tree is a very special tree. We at Plantura introduce you to the valuable effects and possible uses (neem oil) of neem.
The neem tree (also called neem or margosa) is a very interesting plant that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine in its homeland for well over 1000 years. The tree belongs to the mahogany family and feels very comfortable in subtropical to tropical climates. The valuable thing about the tree is its many ingredients, all of which have not yet been researched. Since the highest concentration of the ingredients is in the seeds, they are particularly valuable.
Ingredient Properties
The active ingredients of the neem tree have a very broad spectrum of effects. Among other things, they help with viral diseases, fungal infestation, mites and especially against insects. In the case of insect infestation, a neem application has proven particularly effective against the following pests:
- Mealy apple aphid
- White Fly
- Thrips
- Minerfly
Neem preparations are even used against migratory locusts. In insects, the effect is that the pests stop feeding and are prevented from developing.
Another plus is that some components of the neem tree are systemic. This means that the active ingredients are absorbed by the plant and distributed throughout the plant. This means that even hidden pests can be combated. Interestingly, the active ingredients are not that dangerous for most beneficial insects and, fortunately, this also applies to bees. Aquatic organisms usually also have no problem with the ingredients. In addition to the beneficial insects, the agent is also very well tolerated by almost all plants. When using it, however, you should always follow the instructions in the package insert.
Application of Niem
If you prefer not to experiment with neem meal, which we will talk about in a moment, you can use our tried-and-tested ready-to-use Plantura organic pest-free neem. OneAn alternative to the finished products are crushed or ground neem seeds. These are soaked in water for at least 24 hours (50 grams in 1 liter of water). The affected plants can then be watered or sprayed with the water extract produced. Since the active ingredients work better when in direct contact with the pests, spray treatment is preferable. Some gardeners also mix the grist directly into the soil when transplanting. This should allow the active ingredients to be absorbed slowly by the plant and provide long-term protection. Neempress cakes are also commercially available. With these, the oil of the seeds and thus the active ingredients have already been pressed out. The product is therefore not suitable for crop protection; but very well as a good organic fertilizer.
Furthermore, it should be noted during application that the water extract should not be sprayed in high heat and in direct sunlight. Because the ingredients are quickly broken down by UV radiation and can then no longer work.
Important: According to the Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety, neem oil is classified as safe for cats. However, some scientific studies have shown that neem oil treatment can lead to greater or lesser discomfort and clinical symptoms such as tremors and convulsions in individual cats. For this reason, we recommend that you isolate plants treated with neem supplements from cats for the duration of the waiting period, if possible.