Neem as an organic fertiliser

Neem is a plant that is used as organic fertiliser in many parts of the world. In particular, neem press cake is a popular form of neem fertiliser. This press cake is made from the dried seeds of the neem tree and contains numerous nutrients that are beneficial for plant growth. Neem press cake is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulphur, calcium, magnesium, sodium and other micronutrients such as iron, manganese, copper, zinc and cobalt which are essential for healthy plant growth. In addition, the press cake also contains high concentrations of neem active ingredients such as azadirachtin and other bioactive substances that help keep pests and diseases at bay.

Another advantage of neem as neem as an organic fertiliser is its long-lasting effect. The neem press cake decomposes slowly in the soil and thus releases its nutrients over a longer period of time, resulting in a continuous supply of important nutrients to the plants. This is particularly beneficial for slow-growing plants or those that require a constant supply of nutrients. Compared to conventional fertilisers, neem is also more environmentally friendly as an organic fertiliser, as it is made from renewable plant-based raw materials. And unlike many conventional fertilisers, its application does not lead to contamination with excess nutrients in bodies of water and groundwater.

Neem also has a harmonising effect on microbiological soil life. For example, neem acts as a natural nitrification inhibitor, which reduces the loss of nitrogen in the form of nitrate into the groundwater. Neem slows down the activity of Nitrosomonas bacteria, so that the conversion of ammonium to nitrite is delayed and there is less nitrate formation in the subsequent step. Nitrate is the form of nitrogen that is preferentially absorbed by plants on the one hand and is most easily washed out if there is an excess in the soil on the other. It is therefore important that nitrate formation takes place slowly so that the plants can be supplied with the right amount of nitrate without the excess being lost. Neem press cake can be mixed very well with organic fertilisers such as slurry and chicken manure and reduce their volatile N losses.

As an special organic fertiliser, neem also has many positive effects on the soil. The press cake improves the soil structure by increasing soil porosity and improving water infiltration. This leads to better aeration of the roots and more efficient absorption of nutrients by the plants. Neem also supports the activity of soil microorganisms such as beneficial bacteria and fungi, which are essential for the decomposition of organic matter and the provision of nutrients. In addition, neem acts as a natural soil conditioner as it regulates the pH value of the soil and inhibits the growth of unwanted soil organisms.

The use of neem as an organic fertiliser therefore offers a range of benefits for plants and the soil. It not only promotes healthy plant growth, but also acts as a deterrent to root-eating organisms such as fungus gnat larvae, weevil larvae, grubs and nematodes. Neem press cake in the soil strengthens the plant's defences against unwanted plant-eating organisms.

The roots themselves can only absorb the bioactive substances such as azadirachtin from whole young seedlings. As a result, these fresh seedlings are protected from voracious insects in the early stages of their life. As soon as plants have reached the 4 to 6 leaf stage, the roots become impermeable to highly molecular compounds such as azadirachtin. From this point onwards, the plants must begin to be protected by other means, whereby neem oil is particularly suitable here.

In addition, neem improves the soil by adding organic matter and increases the soil's ability to absorb and store water. It also promotes biological activity in the soil and supports the growth of beneficial soil microorganisms. The use of neem as an organic fertiliser is environmentally friendly and sustainable as it contains no harmful chemicals and helps to maintain soil health.

Neem is particularly suitable as an organic fertiliser for the following plant species

Neem, also known as neem tree or Azadirachta indica, is a plant that is valued in many parts of the world for its various uses. In addition to its medicinal and cosmetic applications, neem is also used as an organic fertiliser. In particular, there are certain plant species for which neem is particularly suitable as a fertiliser.

Plant species that can benefit from neem as an organic fertiliser include vegetable crops such as tomatoes, peppers and aubergines. Neem contains many nutrients that are important for the growth and development of vegetable plants. By using neem as a fertiliser, these plants can grow healthy and strong and produce an abundant harvest. Using neem fertiliser on vegetable plants is also environmentally friendly as it does not contain harmful chemicals or pesticides that are often present in conventional fertilisers. This also improves the quality and flavour of the harvested vegetables.

Fruit trees can also benefit from neem as a fertiliser. Apple trees, pear trees and apricot trees are just a few examples of fruit trees that can benefit from the nutrients in neem. Fruit trees such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries also benefit greatly from the application of Neem press cake. In the early stages of growth, fruit trees and shrubs need a sufficient amount of nutrients to be healthy and productive. Therefore, an early application in spring during the budding period is of great importance. Neem as a fertiliser can increase the health and productivity of these trees and shrubs and lead to better fruit formation.

Neem also acts as protection against pests and diseases that could attack the fruit tree or fruit shrub. Strawberries are particularly worthy of mention here. These ground-hugging plants are very often victims of soil-borne pests such as thrips or fungus gnats, which can be successfully repelled or repelled by adding Neem press cake to the substrate or soil. This admixture also helps to reduce soil-borne fungal pathogens, another risk for this type of plant.

Ornamental plants such as roses, orchids, boxwoods, camellias and also bulb flowers such as lilies and tulips can also benefit from neem as an organic fertiliser. Neem contains certain compounds that can promote the growth and flowering of ornamental plants. By using neem as a fertiliser, plants can grow healthy and strong and produce beautiful flowers.

Using neem as a fertiliser for ornamental plants can also help to repel unwanted organisms and reduce the incidence of disease. Neem press cake primarily prevents unwanted organisms from settling in the soil and infesting the plant.

Neem is very suitable as an organic fertiliser for ornamental plants, as it provides them with practically all the necessary nutrients in an ideal way. Neem press cake is a good source of the macronutrients nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium as well as the other macro- and micronutrients. It promotes plant growth, improves soil structure, encourages soil micro-organism life and prevents unwanted organisms from settling in. Using neem as a fertiliser can therefore improve the growth and health of ornamental plants while controlling pests and diseases.