It is used medicinally, in the cosmetics industry, and as an organicinsecticidespray.

Organic gardeners love that the oil is safe to use, and it will not harm humans or animals.

you could buy commercial neem oil solutions, but they may be less potent than homemade versions.

How to use neem oil

The Spruce / Adriana Sanchez

What Is Neem Oil?

The active ingredient in the oil is azadirachtin, which repels and kills pests.

When and Where to Use Neem Oil

Neem oil is safe for the environment.

aphids

The Spruce / Candace Madonna

Microbes and light quickly break down the pesticide in soil, water, and leaves.

How Does Neem Oil Work?

Tip

Diluted liquid soap works as ahomemade garden pesticide.

mixing a neem oil solution

The Spruce / Adrienne Legault

It also kills aphids and other soft bugs when sprayed directly on pests.

Do not add any more than is needed.

Use protective gloves to avoid any oily drips.

adding neem oil to the water mixture

The Spruce / Adrienne Legault

Using Neem Oil Spray in Trees

Certan trees can highly benefit from neem oil.

Additionally, neem oil can harm beneficial insects.

Other organic insecticides include diatomaceous earth and a spray made peppermint, rosemary, and thyme oil.

spraying plants with the neem oil solution

The Spruce / Adrienne Legault

Yes, neem oil is pet safe.

However, exposure should be limited when possible.

National Pesticide Information Center, Oregon State University.

garden sprayer

The Spruce / Adrienne Legault

Azadirachtin (121701) Clarified Hydrophobic Extract of Neem Oil (025007) Fact Sheet.United States Environmental Protection Agency.

What should neem be used for on plants?.

University of New Hampshire Extension.

Person spraying pyrethrin pesticide onto a garden plant

Less Toxic Insecticides.Clemson University Extension Home & Garden Information Center.

Cornus florida.Missouri Botanical Garden.

Juniperus squamata ‘Blue Star’.Missouri Botanical Garden.

container plants

French marigolds