How To Apply Neem Oil To Soil: Gardening Hacks
Neem oil contains an insecticidal ingredient to control possible pest risks in the garden. It is everything a gardener could ask for. Neem oil is made using the seeds from the Neem tree that is known to be a native in India. It’s very safe to apply to the garden soil as it leaves no hazardous residue. It kills and prevents pests from damaging your plants. With no further ado, let’s tackle how to apply neem oil to soil that could help you in maintaining and keeping your garden pest-free.
Benefits of Neem Oil
Neem oil has a lot to contribute to your garden. It is a natural insecticide that works entirely to plants when applied as a soil drench. It’s a powerful aid to your difficult-to-manage situations in the garden. To know about the advantages of Neem Oil to our plants, here are some of its uses and benefits.
Kills Insects
Once the Neem Oil is applied in the soil, it goes through the plant’s vascular system. It prevents insects from coming. Neem oil kills many insects and mites that are interrupting your plants. The compounds cause the insects to reduce as well as preventing the larvae from maturing. It kills aphids, snails, whiteflies, bugs, nematodes, cabbage worms, cockroaches, and all other pests that could damage your plant.
Prevents Fungus
Aside from killing insects, Neem Oil is also effective in stopping fungal diseases. It is beneficial in your garden, especially if you are planting vegetables. If you want to make use of neem oil on plants, spray vulnerable plants every 10 to 14 days until the fungus does no longer exist. You should also know how to apply neem oil to the soil. Spray your plants once a week until it makes fungi disappear, then spray every two weeks to prevent it from coming back.
These are the common fungi that grow on plants:
- Blackspot
- Scab
- Rust
- Leaf spot
- Anthracnose
- Tip blight
Safe to Use
Neem Oil doesn’t create any risk to plants as other insecticides do. It only focuses on preventing those chewing and leaf-sucking insects from damaging the plant. You don’t have to worry when you use it because it’s safe and will not cause any harm to your health and your plant’s health. It’s even safer when you use it properly. Just avoid drinking it and be sensible in using it.
Good Fertilizer
Neem Oil is not just an insecticide; it can also be a good fertilizer to your plants. It is made from natural manure and a by-product of neem fruit and kernels. Neem oil is special because it acts as a protection from pests and, at the same time, also nourishes your plant. You should know the easy steps on how to apply neem oil to soil because it fertilizes the soil. It gives out nitrogen to contribute to the plant’s healthy growth.
Has a Variety of Formulas
Neem oil comes with many concentration and formulas for you to choose, that best that suits your needs. The neem oil is just being mixed with insecticidal soap to help boost its pest-killing power. You may also find neem oil products through other forms like:
- Granules
- Emulsifiable concentrates
- Wettable powders
- Dust
Does Not Pollute the Water
Since Neem oil is non-toxic and biodegradable, there’s no way it could pollute your groundwater. It’s not only safe for our plants because it is also safe for the water we drink. It will not cause toxic overflow nearby bodies of water and streams. You can happily use it with total peace of mind.
How to Apply Neem Oil to Soil
If you are planning to protect your soil and plants from insects and animals, you must know how to apply neem oil to soil. Here are some of the tips for application:
- First, have the neem oil concentrate mixed with water. You may also use it with insecticidal soap, as it helps in breaking up the soil. You should keep this solution stirred up for better results.
- Use a spray bottle filled with a neem oil mixture. Make sure that the liquid inside the bottle is lukewarm when you are going to use it.
- Spray the upper and lower parts of the plants. Make sure that you’re not missing any spots and parts because insects might still get in there.
- Next, apply neem oil to the soil as it also works as a fertilizer for the soil and plants. You may again use the spray bottles, or you can pour it directly to the soil using a bucket. The soil can get a lot of nourishment when you pour too much neem oil into it.
- This is the time wherein you need to wait after 48 hours to repeat the process. The application of neem oil is not only made once. You have to observe it until the insects are gone.
Conclusion
We all know that insects love to lurk around our plants in the garden. It weakens the plants. When you know how to apply neem oil to soil, it will go a long way in helping your garden. It does not only prevent insects from coming back to your plants. It could also distribute nourishment and gives life to the soil. Just remember: Use neem oil when needed and in moderation. Though it's not that hazardous, too much may still cause harm to your health. Get more tips about garden soils.
