How to Use Neem

Neem oil is made from the seeds of neem trees. It is most commonly used as an organic pesticide. Neem oil can help control pests by deterring them with its strong odor. The oil also kills some insects by poisoning them when they ingest it, or by suffocating them when they are coated with it. Neem works on a variety of bugs, including Japanese beetles, aphids and whitefly.

Things You'll Need

• Neem oil
• Emulsifier
• Water
• Spray bottle

Instructions

1. Purchase a commercially prepared neem oil product, or make your own. To make your own, combine neem oil with an emulsifier such as detergent or soap and water, in a ratio suggested by the manufacturer of the neem oil you purchased.

2. Pour the neem into a spray bottle and shake thoroughly. Shaking mixes the product and keeps the oil from settling at the bottom of the spray bottle.

3. Saturate the plants to be treated with neem. Cover the tops, bottoms and sides of the leaves. The entire plant should be coated with the neem.

4. Repeat the application every 2 to 3 days for 3 weeks. It is important to repeat the application to end the life cycle of the bugs you are treating.

References

• Neem as a Natural Pesticide