If you struggled with pests on your crops, you probably already have come across the use of neem oil as an organic solution. Many gardeners suggest applying it to your plants to remove insects that might bother them (and even kill them).
Most of the time, using organic products will solve the issue without harming your plants. However, some crops are more susceptible to attacks from pests than others.
For instance, tomatoes suffer attacks from many bugs, including aphids and spider mites. But can you use neem oil on tomatoes? And what else should you know about this “natural” pesticide? Keep reading this essential guide we put together for you to find out!
What Is Neem Oil?
Neem oil is a natural pesticide that comes from the seeds and bark of Indica trees (which, if you didn’t know this already, are native to South East Asia and India).
Most parts of the neem tree plant contain high concentrations of Azadirachtin, a natural pesticide that also works as a repellent, nematicide, and attractant. Recently, people cannot use neem oil in parts of the UK and Canada due to its toxicity to aquatic animals.
However, neem oil is an ingredient that appears in many soaps, medicines, and cosmetics. Still, we recommend you use gloves when handling it to prevent irritation.
It is worth pointing out that compared to other chemical pesticides, neem oils’ side effects are minimal. Plus, it is non-toxic to mammals, birds, or plants, making it a safe solution when dealing with annoying bugs.
This substance is safe and beneficial to your plants since it contributes to removing harmful insects without affecting the beneficial pollinators.
Why Should You Use Neem Oil?
As you may have gathered, neem oil is a safe pesticide alternative. You can mix it with water and spray it on your plants to prevent pests such as aphids and whiteflies.
Neem oil also works as an insecticide that attacks bugs at all growth stages. It can kill different insect species and has fungicide and antimicrobial properties, making it an excellent and versatile solution for many common issues gardeners face.
The best way to use it is to mix a teaspoon of the oil with one quart of warm water mixed with a teaspoon of dish soap. Add the mixture to a container and spray it on your plants.
Can You Use Neem Oil On Tomatoes?
Now let’s go back to the focus of this article, which is the use of neem oil on tomatoes. Since these crops are susceptible to pests, looking for a solution that won’t harm them is something many gardeners do. And we have good news for you!
Because you can safely use neem oil on tomatoes, even 24 hours before harvesting them. Depending on the severity of the issue, you may have to apply it topically. Doing so will increase the effectiveness of the treatment and ensure you eliminate the problem.
Alternatively, spraying a solution of neem oil will also work. Don’t forget to repeat the process every two weeks or so until you manage to remove all pests.
Because neem oil is an organic solvent, it won’t be as effective (immediately) as other pesticides. So, be patient! Of course, you can also spray neem oil frequently as a preventive measure.
You can also make a neem oil drench and let your tomato plant absorb the mixture through its roots, which will maintain your tomatoes healthier for longer. To make one add one teaspoon of pure oil to a quart of water. Pour two to three cups of the mixture around the base of the plant and allow it to soak into the soil every couple of weeks.
Are There Alternatives to Neem Oil?
If you live in Canada or the US, you won’t be able to use neem oil. However, you can have similar effects with olive oil. While it might not be as powerful as an insecticide, it will help you with pest control.
After all, this ingredient you probably already have in the kitchen will suffocate insects and remove most of them without affecting the environment, your plants, or yourself (and your family).
Mix one cup of olive oil with a tablespoon of washing soap and one cup of water. Spray the substance on your tomato plants: you’ll be astonished by the results!
Related Article: When to Spray Neem Oil on Fruit Trees