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1. What is neem?

Neem is a tree native to India known for its medicinal and pesticidal properties.

2. Why is neem popular in gardening?

Neem is popular for its natural pest control and soil improvement qualities.

3. How tall does a neem tree grow?

A neem tree can grow up to 50-65 feet tall.

4. Can neem trees be grown in pots?

Yes, neem trees can be grown in pots, especially when they are young.

5. What type of soil does neem need?

Neem prefers well-drained, sandy loam soil.

6. How much sunlight does neem require?

Neem trees need full sunlight for at least 6-8 hours a day.

7. How often should I water a neem tree?

Water neem trees deeply once or twice a week, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

8. Can neem trees tolerate drought?

Yes, neem trees are drought-tolerant once established.

9. How can I propagate neem?

Neem can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or air layering.

10. When is the best time to plant neem seeds?

The best time to plant neem seeds is in the spring.

11. How deep should neem seeds be planted?

Neem seeds should be planted about half an inch deep.

12. How long do neem seeds take to germinate?

Neem seeds take about 1-3 weeks to germinate.

13. What pests does neem control in the garden?

Neem controls pests like aphids, whiteflies, mealybugs, and spider mites.

14. How do you use neem oil for pest control?

Mix neem oil with water and a few drops of dish soap, then spray on plants.

15. How often should neem oil be applied?

Apply neem oil every 7-14 days for pest control.

16. Can neem be used as a fertilizer?

Yes, neem cake, a byproduct of neem oil extraction, is used as a fertilizer.

17. What nutrients does neem cake provide?

Neem cake provides nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and trace elements.

18. How do you use neem cake in the garden?

Mix neem cake into the soil or use it as a top dressing around plants.

19. Is neem safe for all plants?

Yes, neem is safe for most plants when used properly.

20. Can neem oil burn plants?

Neem oil can burn plants if applied in strong sunlight or in high concentrations.

21. How can you avoid neem oil burns on plants?

Apply neem oil in the early morning or late evening and follow recommended dilution ratios.

22. Can neem help with fungal infections?

Yes, neem has antifungal properties and can help control fungal infections like powdery mildew.

23. How do you use neem to treat fungal infections?

Spray a diluted neem oil solution on affected plants weekly.

24. Can neem improve soil health?

Yes, neem improves soil health by adding organic matter and beneficial microbes.

25. How does neem affect earthworms?

Neem is beneficial for earthworms as it enhances soil quality.

26. Are there any side effects of using neem?

Neem is generally safe, but overuse can harm beneficial insects.

27. How do you store neem oil?

Store neem oil in a cool, dark place, away from sunlight.

28. Does neem oil expire?

Yes, neem oil can expire; it typically lasts about 1-2 years.

29. Can neem oil be used on edible plants?

Yes, neem oil can be used on edible plants, but wash produce thoroughly before eating.

30. Is neem oil safe for pets?

Neem oil is generally safe for pets when used in small amounts.

31. How do you prepare neem leaf tea for plants?

Boil neem leaves in water, let cool, strain, and spray on plants.

32. What are the benefits of neem leaf tea?

Neem leaf tea helps with pest control and provides mild fertilization.

33. Can neem trees grow in cold climates?

Neem trees are tropical and do not tolerate frost well.

34. How can you protect neem trees from cold?

Protect neem trees from cold by covering them or moving potted trees indoors during frost.

35. What is the lifespan of a neem tree?

A neem tree can live for 150-200 years.

36. How fast does a neem tree grow?

Neem trees grow about 2-3 feet per year.

37. Can neem trees be pruned?

Yes, neem trees can be pruned to maintain shape and size.

38. When is the best time to prune neem trees?

Prune neem trees in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.

39. How do you treat neem tree diseases?

Treat neem tree diseases with proper sanitation, neem oil sprays, and good cultural practices.

40. What are common neem tree diseases?

Common neem tree diseases include leaf spot, root rot, and dieback.

41. How do you harvest neem leaves?

Harvest neem leaves by cutting branches or picking individual leaves.

42. How can neem leaves be used?

Neem leaves can be used to make teas, extracts, or as a green manure.

43. What is neem cake?

Neem cake is the residue left after extracting neem oil from seeds.

44. How does neem cake benefit the garden?

Neem cake acts as a natural fertilizer and pest repellent.

45. Can neem be used in composting?

Yes, neem can be added to compost to enrich it and repel pests.

46. How often should neem cake be applied to soil?

Apply neem cake once or twice a year, mixing it into the soil.

47. What is the scientific name of the neem tree?

The scientific name of the neem tree is Azadirachta indica.

48. Can neem oil be mixed with other insecticides?

Neem oil can be mixed with other organic insecticides, but always test on a small area first.

49. How do you make neem oil spray?

Mix 2 teaspoons of neem oil with 1 quart of water and a few drops of dish soap.

50. Can neem be used for human health?

Yes, neem has been traditionally used for various medicinal purposes for humans.