What Neem Oil Does

Neem oil is pressed from the seeds of the neem tree. As a foliar spray it disrupts the life cycle of soft-bodied pests -- mealybugs, aphids, spider mites, scale -- without the harsh residue of synthetic chemicals.

The Mix

  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of 100% cold-pressed neem oil
  • A few drops of mild liquid soap (the emulsifier)
  • 1 litre of warm (not hot) water

Shake well and use within a few hours.

How to Apply

Spray the whole plant -- tops and undersides of leaves, stems, and the soil surface. Repeat every 5–7 days for three weeks. Early morning or evening is best so the leaves do not scorch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is neem safe around pets?

A:

It is low-toxicity, but keep pets from licking wet leaves until they dry.

Q: Why do I add soap?

A:

Neem is an oil and will not mix with water without an emulsifier.

Q: It did not work -- why?

A:

Usually the mix was stale, or only the tops were sprayed. Fresh mix plus thorough coverage fixes both.

Neem is the gentlest first line of defence. For identification help, use the pest identifier tool.