Neem

Marijuana Horticulture

by Jorge Cervantes

Ingredients – Relatively new in the USA, neem has been used for medicine and pest control for more than four centuries in India and Southeast Asia. Extracted from the Indian neem tree, Azadirachta indica, or the chinaberry tree, Melia azedarach, neem is an antifeedant and disrupts insect life cycle. The trees are known as the village pharmacy because they supply cures for humans and animals as well as safety control countless pests and fungi. Neem powder is made from leaves. The active ingredient, azadirachtin, confuses growth hormones and pests never mature into adults to produce more young. It is most effective against young insects and is available in various concentrations. it also contains N-P-K and trace elements.

Controls – Most effective against caterpillars and other immature insects including larvae or white flies, fungus gnats, mealybugs, and leafminers.

Caution – Neem is not as effective against spider mites as neem oil.

Mixing – Often mixed with vegetable (canola) oil. Mix just before using in water with a pH below 7 and use a spreader-sticker. Agitate constantly while using to keep emulsified, throw out excess.

Application – Use as a soil drench or add to the nutrient solution. This allows neem to enter into the plant’s tissue and become systemic. Used as a spray, neem becomes a contact spray and an antifeedant when eaten by pests. Performs best in rooms with 60 percent plus humidity.

Persistence – Contact neem stays on foliage for up to a month or until it is washed off. Stays in plant system up to a month when absorbed via roots.

Forms – Emulsifiable concentrate.

Toxicity – Not toxic to honeybees, fish, and earthworms. Not toxic to beneficial insects in normal concentrations that kill target insects.

Safety – Irritates eyes; wear a mask and gloves.