FARMING FOR CLIMATE CHANGE
Neem
Scientific Name of Neem is Azadirachta Indica.
Common Name: Neem.
Neem is a tree with stout and a rather short stem which can grow up to 12-15 meters high. Neem seeds are collected and then crushed and then the oil is extracted. The de-oiled residue of these seeds is called neem cakes. These cakes are high in NPK and are used to control nematodes.
Unlike chemical pesticides, Neem works on the hormonal system of an insect and it does not lead to any type of resistance.
Below is the typical nutrient content of Neem cake:
(N) Nitrogen (2.0% to 5.0%)
(P) Phosphorus (0.5% to 1.0%)
(K) Potassium (1.0% to 2.0%)
(Ca) Calcium (0.5% to 3.0%)
(Zn) Zinc (15 ppm to 60 ppm)
(Cu) Copper (4 ppm to 20 ppm)
(S) Sulphur (0.2% to 3.0%)
(Mg) Magnesium (0.3% to 1.0%)
(Fe) Iron (500 ppm to 1200 ppm)
(Mn) Manganese (20 ppm to 60 ppm)
Neem Tree
Tobacco
Neem works extremely well when mixed with organic fertilizers. Neem improves the appearance of fruit and vegetables and it also strengthens roots, and boosts the growth of foliage.
Neem is very useful in controlling the population of Nematodes. It also effective against many pathogens present in the soil. Neem seeds and cakes contain nortriterpenoids and isoprenoids, which are nematicidal in nature.
Friendly to both Bees and Butterflies
Benefits of using Neem :
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Neem is an excellent Organic Soil Amendment.
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Neem cakes are organic and natural substances. They are bio-degradable.
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Totally chemical free.
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You can mix Neem cakes with other fertilizers.
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Neem cakes improve the texture of your soil. Their organic nature and water holding capacity also help to keep the soil aerated which is a must for better root development.
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Neem is a natural pest repellent. The dual effect of fertilizing and pest protection often results in amazing yields.
Cons of using Neem:
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Use caution while applying Neem cakes in potting mixes. Using more than 1% could cause a lack of seed germination or stunt young plants.
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Botanical insecticides, such as Neem are allowed in organic production. But as with all insecticides, you should use them only as a last resort. Although this is natural, it occasionally might harm some beneficial insects.