As an organic gardener, I know how hard it is to keep pests away from the garden. That is why neem oils are here to save your garden from harmful pests and bugs.
The best neem oils are not only for naturally repelling pests; they also create shiny leaves and keep the plants healthy.
The thick consistency of neem oil ensures the bugs are miles away from the plants. In fact, the aroma of neem oil will enchant you. The best neem oil for plants can easily replace harmful chemical pest-repellent sprays for your plants.
So if you are a garden enthusiast who is looking for a solution to get rid of pests and have a nice-smelling garden, the Best Neem Oil for plants are here for you!
In this article, I will discuss the top seven best neem oil for plants, as well as how to use them effectively. Let’s dive in:
1. Overall Pick: Bonide Captain Jack’s Neem Oil
Bonide Captain Jack’s Neem Oil is the best neem oil for plants you can ever find. And that is why it is on our top three editors’ choice lists.
What sets apart Bonide neem oil apart from other oils is its versatility. You are not just repelling pests, you are also protecting the plants from harsh environments throughout the year. Bonide neem oil also works as a dormant spray for all indoor and outdoor plants.
The best part that attracted me was the hassle-free application of Bonide neem oil. You don’t need any soap or water to dissolve the neem oil because it has the perfect consistency.
It even comes with a user-friendly spray nozzle that makes applying it a breeze. Plus, the best part is that you can use it right up to the day of your harvest.
Bonnie Neem Oil is not just an insect repellent; it handles over 15 insect pests and keeps them at bay at all life stages. Plus, it’s a trusted shield against fungal diseases like powdery mildew and blight. And when mites, including the elusive spider mites, pose a threat, Neem Oil steps in for complete control.
One important consideration with Neem Oil is its smell, which some may find quite strong and distinctive. While the odor dissipates relatively quickly after application, it’s something to keep in mind, especially if you’re sensitive to scents.
Brand: Bonide । Product Type: Neem Oil । Indoor/Outdoor Usage: Indoor and outdoor । Item Form: Ready-To-Use । Liquid Volume: 128 Fluid Ounces । Active Ingredients: Clarified Hydrophobic Extract Of Neem Oil । Target Species: Fungus, Insects, Mites ।
Pros
- Organic product
- Versatile application
- 3-in-1 protection against pests
- Prevent fungal disease
Cons
- Sometimes nozzle does not work
- The concentration of neem is lower.
2. Best Premium: Neem Bliss-Pure Neem Oils For Plants
Neem Bliss is an organic neem oil spray for indoor and outdoor plants that will prevent bugs from entering your garden. First things first, what sets Plantonix Neem Bliss apart? It’s the purest neem oil you can find.
No heat, no additives—just the goodness of neem fruit kernels. The cold press process retains essential nutrients, ensuring your garden gets the very best.
Applying Neem Bliss is a breeze. Mix 1.5 teaspoons with a quart of water, add a dash of dish soap, and voila! You’ve got a potent pest repellent. Neem Bliss is highly concentrated and soluble, so one bottle goes a long way. Your farm, your lawn, and even your indoor plants all benefit from a single bottle.
Now, let’s talk about benefits. Neem Bliss is a certified organic product, making it safe for all your gardening needs. The main star here is azadirachtin, which means it’s not just a pest deterrent; it’s a plant health booster. Regular use promotes nutrient availability and boosts soil health through microbial activity.
One thing to keep in mind about Neem Bliss is its distinctive, strong smell. Some folks might find it a bit pungent. However, this scent fades away relatively quickly after application, leaving behind healthier and pest-free plants. So, while the smell may not be your garden’s favorite perfume, the results more than make up for it.
Brand: Plantonix । Product Type: Neem oil, Neem Plant । Indoor/Outdoor Usage: Indoor and outdoor । Item Form: Neem l Item Weight: 8 pounds ।
Pros
- No toxic or harmful ingredients
- Organically Certified by OMRI
- Highly Concentrated
- Promotes Soil Health
Cons
- It has a strong smell that might not be favorable for some people.
- You need to use extra soap and water to emulsify.
3. Best Choice: The Green Alcove Neem Oil Spray
Tired of the mess and waste associated with traditional neem oil bottles? Say hello to simplicity and eco-friendliness.
Alcove neem oil spray is a convenient and travel-friendly bottle filled with 100% pure cold-pressed neem oil, free from any harmful chemicals or additives. The Alcove’s pure cold-pressed neem oil not only repels the bugs but also makes the leaf shiny.
The premium PET plastic amber spray bottle is a testament to thoughtful design. Simply rotate the nozzle to match your task—a fine mist for delicate seedlings or a strong stream for stubborn pests. The best part is that you don’t need to use any extra soap or detergent to dissolve the oil.
You are getting neem concentrate sachets that are the ultimate hassle-free solution. Just tear, fill, and shake, and you’re ready to transform your garden. Please note that the oil might not be friendly to pollinators or some monarch caterpillars. Another disadvantage is that the bottle is difficult to clean out.
With one PET amber spray bottle and five neem oil sachets, you’ll be armed with the best neem oil for plants, making up to 80 fl oz of natural pest control and plant health booster.
Brand: The Green Alcove । Product Type: Neem Oil । Indoor/Outdoor Usage: Indoor and Outdoor । Item Volume: 80 Fluid Ounces Material । Feature: Natural Item Form: Liquid ।
Pros
- Convenient spray bottle
- No mess, Hassle-free application
- Single-dose sachets are a waste-free and eco-friendly solution
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor plants
Cons
- PET plastics are not eco-friendly materials.
- Sometimes the portion is too much for a single plant
- Difficult to clean out the plastic bottle
4. Best Budget: Harris Neem Oil Cold Pressed Water Soluble Concentrate
For gardening enthusiasts, Harris Neem Oil Cold Pressed Water Soluble Concentrate is a game-changer for beloved plants. With an 80% neem oil and 20% surfactant blend, it’s a perfect harmony of power and versatility. The neem oil effortlessly mixes with water, making the application smooth and effective.
Harris Neem Oil Concentrate simplifies the process. Mixing it with water is effortless, and there’s no need for additional surfactants or complex recipes. It’s a time-saver, making your gardening routine a joy.
For beginner gardeners who are looking for budget-friendly neem oils, Harris Neem Oil is perfect for you.
But remember, always follow the directions for the best results. Apply it liberally to both sides of leaves and stems, and be mindful of potential leaf burn. Early mornings or late evenings are the ideal times for applications.
A thing to remember is that it’s not suitable for water/aquatic plants or recently transplanted or stressed plants. Perform a patch test on a small area before full application.
Brand: Harris । Product Type: Neem oil । Indoor/Outdoor Usage: indoor and outdoor । Item Form: Liquid । Item Weight: 8 Ounces । Liquid Volume: 8 Fluid Ounces ।
Pros
- You don’t need extra surfactant
- 80% neem oil with 20% surfactant blend
- Best for adult plants
- Balances the soil’s health
Cons
- The packaging is smaller than the picture, which can be misleading.
5. Best For Everyday Use: Safer Brand 5182-6 Neem Oil Concentrate
The Safer Brand Neem Oil Concentrate doesn’t discriminate when it comes to pests. The neem oil is effective against eggs, larvae, and adult mites and insects, including aphids, beetles, spider mites, whiteflies, and more.
For environmentally-conscious gardeners, peace of mind is paramount. Safer brand neem oil concentrate is OMRI Listed, meaning it complies with organic gardening standards. Whether you have roses, flowers, herbs, vegetables, houseplants, lawns, trees, or shrubs, this spray offers versatile protection.
And for the budget-conscious, you’ll appreciate that the 32 oz bottle of concentrate can make up to 16 gallons of spray.
When it comes to dealing with garden pests, Safer Brand Neem Oil Concentrate is a formidable opponent. The neem oil targets insects in all stages of life, from eggs to larvae to adult mites and insects. Aphids, beetles, spider mites, whiteflies, and a host of other common garden pests are no match for this potent formula.
The only drawback is that neem oil can sting some people if they have sensitive skin. So I recommend using gloves before working with the neem oil to prevent any rashes or skin problems.
Brand: Safer Brand । Product Type: Neem Oil । Indoor/Outdoor Usage: outdoor । Item Form: Oil । Item Weight: 1 Pounds । Liquid Volume: 16 Fluid Ounces । Target Species: Spider ।
Pros
- OMRI certified brand
- Best for every type of bug
- Specially created to kill spider mites
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- The product may be risky for sensitive skin (gloves required)
- The odor is unpleasant
6. Best For Beginners: Emily’s Naturals Neem Oil for Plants
Emily’s Naturals Neem Oil is the best neem oil for plants if you want to keep the pesticides away. This plant spray is not only effective but also environmentally conscious, making it a win-win for plant lovers and the planet alike.
The neem oil is comprised of just two simple ingredients: 100% Pure Cold-pressed Neem Oil and Castile Soap. Mixing these ingredients is a breeze, thanks to the pre-portioned ingredient packets included in the kit.
What sets Emily’s Naturals Neem Oil Plant Spray apart is its commitment to being natural, non-toxic, and safe for the environment. You can use it with peace of mind around humans, pets, and wildlife, knowing that it won’t harm them.
Simply mix the ingredients by filling the spray bottle with water and adding the Neem Oil and Castile Soap pouches. A good shake ensures thorough mixing. Adjust the sprayer nozzle for a fine mist to ensure even coverage on your plants’ leaves. Applying it weekly is all it takes to keep your plants protected and thriving.
Brand: Pure Body Naturals । Product Type: Neem Oil । Indoor/Outdoor Usage: Indoor and Outdoor । Item Form: Liquid । Liquid: Volume । Specific Uses For Product: Gardening, Organic ।
Pros
- Safe for humans and pets
- 100% pure, cold-pressed neem oil
- Best for beginners
- The whole kit includes everything, so it’s mess-free work
Cons
- Pure neem oil has a pungent smell, which can be unpleasant.
7. Best Option: Verdana Organic Cold-Pressed Neem Oil for Plants
Verdana Organic Neem Oil is truly exceptional in its absolute purity. With 100% high-quality Neem Oil, with absolutely nothing added or removed, just the pure goodness of Neem.
The ability of Verdana’s Neem Oil to be used both inside and outside is one of its most adaptable features. As a plant leaf shine spray, it works wonders, leaving your plants looking vibrant and healthy. Plus, it’s readily biodegradable, leaving no harsh residues behind, making it safe for your garden’s ecosystem.
Using Verdana Organic Cold Pressed Neem Oil is a straightforward process. For plant care, simply mix 1 fluid ounce per gallon of water with 1 fluid ounce of mild soap. Apply this mixture to thoroughly wet both sides of the leaves to enhance their shine and vitality.
Beyond the garden, Neem Oil finds its place in skincare and haircare routines. It’s an excellent addition to your favorite skincare products and DIY cosmetic projects. When it comes to pet care, adding a small amount to your pet’s shampoo can work wonders for their coat.
Overall, Verdana Organic Neem Oil is the best neem oil for plants as well as yourself.
Brand: Verdana । Product Type: cold-pressed neem oil । Indoor/Outdoor Usage: indoor and outdoor । Item Form: Oil । Item Weight: 32 Ounces । Liquid Volume: 32 Fluid Ounces । Target Species: Rodents ।
Pros
- Humans and pets can also use this neem oil
- Safe for everyone
- Kills every type of bug, especially rodents
Cons
- The smell is very unpleasant
How To Use Neem Oil For Plants?
Using neem oil for plants is pretty easy, and anyone can do that. Before using neem oil, you have to ensure what type of neem oil you have. There are different kinds of neem oils available, such as cold-pressed, granulated, wettable, etc.
As for cold-pressed neem oils, you have to mix one tablespoon of cold-pressed neem oil with one gallon of warm water and a teaspoon of liquid soap. Then put that mixture in a spray bottle, and you are good to go.
Read the product label carefully for more accurate application. Sometimes the label says the oil has soap concentrated, so you don’t need to use extra surfactant.
Spray the oil on the leaves of the plant thoroughly until the entire plant is wet. Start spraying from the top of the plant and slowly come down. Make sure to spray underneath every leaf for better results.
You have to reapply the neem oil every 7-14 days if the pesticides are not cleaned up enough. The best neem oil for plants will kill the pesticide after two to three sprays.
Types of Neem Oil Spray on Plants
Neem oils come in various forms, such as dormant spray, foliar spray, or soil drench. Look at the methods below for types of neem oil spray on plants:
- Neem oil as a dormant spray: Dormant neem oil sprays are for plants that are dormant. Not every neem oil has this benefit. But Bonide Neem Oil Spray can work as a dormant spray. You have to use neem oil spray during windless days when the temperature is almost 40 degrees.
- Neem oil as a foliar spray: Foliar Neem spray is best for the planting season when pests overwhelmingly grow. Just spray the whole plant with foliar spray, and your plant will thrive.
- Neem Oil as soil drench: Most neem oil comes in soil drench packaging. In that case, you have to dilute the neem oil in some soapy water, then pour the mixture into the ground or potting soil. This method is best for outdoor plants. For indoor plants, I recommend a spray bottle with neem oil in it.
How To Use Neem Oils For Specific Types of Plants?
Specific plants need a specific ratio of neem oils. Here are the types of plants you need to consider before applying the best neem oils.
Neem Oils for Indoor Plants
For indoor houseplants, you should use foliage spray or soil drench neem oils. Spider mites, whiteflies, fungus gnats, mealybugs, aphids, thrips, and other fungal diseases easily attack indoor houseplants.
That is why you need to spray the foliage once a week to fully coat the plant. Do not forget the underside of the leaves, because that’s where the bugs hide. Neem oil sprays for plants is the best solution to indoor pests.
Neem oils for vegetables
For vegetable plants, use the soil drench and neem oil spray. The neem oil spray is for cabbage worms, corn earworms, and tomato homeowners, and the soil drench is for other pests. Make sure to soil drench every three weeks with neem oil for a better result.
Neem Oils for fruit trees
When fruit trees are dormant, that’s the best time to apply neem oil. Doing that will ensure the plant is safe from mealworms, caterpillars, moths, mildew, scab, rust, etc.
Foliar spray or soil drenching are the best uses of neem oil for fruit plants. Mix the cold-pressed neem oil with one gallon of water, and start spraying or soil drenching it.
How Does Neem Oil Work?
Pure neem oil contains insecticidal and fungicidal compounds, which are Azadirachtin and Salannin. Azadirachtin has pest-repellent abilities, and Salannin prevents pests from coming back.
According to a study from the University of Florida, neem oils are best for soft-bodied insects. The clarified hydrophobic extraction comes from the processed neem oil, which is also beneficial for plants.
Neem oil spray for plants works by manipulating the hormones of the bugs, causing them to lose the urge to feed and eventually die. Since the neem oil has a thick consistency, it also acts as a glue, which keeps bugs from leaving and suffocates them.
A study that conducted by the University of New Hampshire, neem oil is most effective for immature eggs and insects. Neem oil can not cure already affected plants. That is why it is important to spray neem oil during the planting season to prevent fungal infections.
What are the Benefits Of Neem Oil For Plants?
The main benefit of neem oil spray for plants is repelling pests. When used as a spray, it acts as a potent natural pesticide, deterring a wide range of garden pests and disrupting their reproductive cycles. Additionally, neem oil proves highly effective in combating common fungal diseases like powdery mildew and rust.
However, according to the National Pesticide Information Center, neem oil can slightly irritate sensitive skin, which is why using gloves is recommended. Other than that, neem oil is beneficial for both humans and plants.
Humans have been using neem paste to get rid of their skin diseases. Neem also filters blood and clears disease from the human body. When it comes to plants, neem oil balances the soil’s immune system and keeps it clear of pesticides.
Neem oil is an eco-conscious choice. It won’t harm beneficial insects, ensuring a balanced ecosystem. Plus, it’s organic and chemical-free, making it a sustainable solution for your garden and the planet.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Do You Mix 100% Neem Oil for Plants?
You need one gallon of water and two teaspoons of soap for 100% pure neem oil. For a spray bottle, take only 1/4 teaspoon of soap and one teaspoon of pure neem oil. You can use one to two to three tablespoons of neem oil per gallon of water.
2. Can you spray Neem Oil every day?
You should not spray neem oil every single day. When the garden is already infested with pesticides, spray with neem oil 2-4 times a week. But if you want to prevent the pesticide, then spray one time per 7-14 days.
3. What time should you spray neem oil?
You should spray neem oil early in the morning or late at night. Make sure to coat the whole plant with neem oil, and don’t forget the underside of the leaves. Do not use neem oil during the rainy season or extreme winter, or summer seasons. Make sure the temperature is almost 40 degrees before applying neem oil.
4. How Long Does Neem Oil Stay In Soil?
Neem oils are biodegradable and can be easily broken down by microbes. It takes three days to one month for neem oils to fully break down and mix into the soil. Neem oil is non-toxic and healthy, so it does not harm the environment.
5. Is Too Much Neem Oil Bad For Soil?
Overusing neem oil can clog the soil and interfere with the plant’s photosynthesis. The thick consistency of the neem oil can prevent water from flowing into the plant roots. As a result, your plant can die. So make sure to read the label and instructions, and only reapply neem oil every 7-14 days.
Final Thought
We are at the end of the journey of finding the best neem oil for plants, and it’s clear that you’ve uncovered some fantastic options to support your garden. In this article, I’ve introduced you to ten neem oil products, each with its own character and strengths.
From the reliable pest defender (Bonide Captain Jack’s Neem Oil) to the naturally pure (Green Alcove Neem Oil Spray), I’ve highlighted a diverse array of choices.
As a garden enthusiast, I know the importance of nurturing our plants, and that’s why I strive to provide them with the best. With the insights gained from this article, you’re now well-equipped to select the best neem oil spray for plants for your unique garden.
