How to Apply Horticultural Oils

Horticultural oil is a concentrated organic oil (most often made of the neem plant) that is mixed with water and sprayed onto trees (leaves and bark) to control a variety of insects. It controls mites, scale insects, gall, mealy bugs, codling moth, red spiders, whiteflies, aphids, leaf rollers, treehoppers and several other insects.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 1. Home and garden sprayer
• 2. Neem Oil (available at local nurseries and garden centers)
• 3. A face mask
• 4. Safety glasses
• 5. Long-sleeved shirt
• 6. Long pants
• 7. Cap

Wear protective clothing, face mask and safety glasses.

1. Although neem horticultural oil is organic, excessive exposure to skin, eyes, nose or mouth can be harmful. Always take precautions.

2. Read and follow the indtructions on the label. do this carefully. If you're not sure about what to do, then seek help from your local cooperative extension service or agriculturalist.

3. Spray only in early morning or late afternoon.

4. Do not use any utensil that will be used for food preparation, drinking or cooking containers. And make sure that whatever utensils you do use are cleaned well after using.

5. Do not have contact with the oil while you are preparing it, and during the application of it.

6. Keep the horticultural oil extract out of the reach of children and pets, even if you are only leaving it out overnight.

7. Before spraying, harvest all ripe fruit from the tree.

8. Always test your mixture on a few infected plants, before you begin wholesale spraying. If you use soap to emulsifier, use one based on potash.

9. After applying, always wash your hands.

Tips & Warnings

• As with any insecticide, wear protective clothing and gear, and shower thoroughly after using.