How to Use Neem Oil for Tomato Plants – Is It Good?

Neem oil is effective for tomato plants and is a natural insecticide and fungicide. You can use neem oil on your tomato plants throughout their growth season. Just spray it on the leaves or pour it into the soil.

You might have heard of using organic neem oil on different plants, but it’s interesting to know that you can also use it on the plants that give you food.

When growing tomato plants, a hidden ingredient can make a big difference. Neem oil helps keep away annoying bugs and fights off sickness-causing fungi that can weaken your plants.

But putting neem oil on your crops is more complex than doing one thing. To get the best results, you need to use the correct method. Well, to do it correctly, then keep reading!

What is Neem Oil?

Neem oil comes in colors from yellow to brown and has a taste that’s a bit bitter. It smells like garlic or sulfur (Acc. to National Pesticide Information Center). Neem comes from the leaves and seeds of the Azadirachta Indica tree and is also called Indian Lilac. 

Azadirachtin is the oil’s critical element, responsible for keeping pests away and getting rid of them. 

It’s often used as a remedy in gardening and agriculture. It has been used for a long time in various cultures to help plants grow better and stay healthy. Neem oil is an excellent choice to care for plants in a natural and eco-friendly way.

Is Neem Oil Good for Tomato Plants?

As already mentioned above. Yes, neem oil is good for tomato plants and gives so many benefits. Before you put anything on your plants, think about how it might affect the fruits you eat.

Neem oil isn’t just a regular bug spray – it does more. It can help plants fight off problems like root rot and leaf spots. Neem oil also has things that help plants grow and stay healthy, like fatty acids and minor nutrients.

Don’t worry; neem oil won’t hurt people or animals when you use it. You can put neem oil on your tomato plants, and it’s safe even up to a day before you pick the tomatoes.

Benefits of Using Neem Oil on Tomato Plants

Neem oil is a natural method that helps your tomatoes grow well while being kind to the environment. Let’s look at its benefits in more detail –

1. Natural Pest Protection

Neem oil acts like a defender for plants against bugs. It goes inside the plant, and when bugs munch on it, they either stop growing, die or can’t harm the plant anymore.

This adequate oil works on all insect life stages, whether outside, indoors, or in greenhouses. It might take a few days, but the effects last long.

It can keep away pests like mites, caterpillars, mealybugs, leafhoppers, aphids, thrills, and whiteflies long term.

2. Protect against Fungal and bacterial diseases

Tomato plants are vulnerable to fungal and bacterial infections that can hinder their growth and fruit production. Neem oil offers a natural solution to protect your plants from these diseases. Its antifungal and antibacterial properties create a shield that prevents the growth of harmful microorganisms.

Applying neem oil as a preventive measure helps to take care of standard issues – 

• Leaf spots
• Molds
• Powdery mildew
• Blight
• Root rot
• Black spot
• Rust
• Anthracnose.

It’s also effective in treating existing infections by halting their progress. 

3. Ideal for Indoor Tomatoes

Whether you’re trying nurturing tomatoes during colder winter months or caring for indoor tomato plants, neem oil offers an all-purpose solution.

Regarding the greenhouse, neem oil stands out as an effective solution. As previously mentioned, It’s a reliable method against a range of pests – aphids, whiteflies, and those pesky invaders that can hassle your indoor plants.

However, neem oil won’t pose any harm to your beloved pets. So you can use it around your pets without any worries.

4. Neem Cakes works as a Fertilizer and Pest Control

Neem oil isn’t just for pests – neem cakes are great for making organic fertilizer. This special fertilizer contains an essential amount of Nitrogen, phosphorus, and Potassium that plants need.

Sometimes, there’s too much Nitrogen in the soil, but neem oil can help fix that when used alongside other fertilizers.

Neem is good to be used as a fertilizer because it slowly gives nutrients to the soil and doesn’t let harmful metals like lead get in, which can happen with some chemical fertilizers.

Plus, it’s like a treat for earthworms and other tiny creatures in the soil. They help make the soil better and provide aeration. When they leave their waste behind or pass away, they add to the soil’s organic matter.

Another great thing is that neem oil feeds plants, and its pest-fighting powers can also knock out pathogens in the soil.

Check this: Are Eggshells Good for Tomato Plants?

5. Neem Oil Fights Nematodes

Dealing with nematodes can be a hassle as they munch on vegetable roots, eventually causing the plants to die.

Getting rid of them becomes tough once they’ve invaded the roots, as many chemical pesticides stop working.

Neem oil uses two natural helpers, triterpenoids and isoprenoids, to fight nematodes. As neem oil breaks down, it releases fatty acids like amino acids, ketones, and aldehydes. These things resist nematodes and get rid of them.

6. Organic

Choosing organic plant care has its benefits. Organic neem oil is an eco-friendly way to care for your plants. This magic tool in the garden controls pests, disease prevention, and overall plant health.

Unlike synthetic chemicals, organic neem oil is gentle on the environment, non-toxic to beneficial insects, and safe for humans and pets.

7. Non-Toxic

Do you want a natural way to take care of your plants, which is also toxic-free to pets? Try non-toxic organic neem oil. It comes from neem tree seeds and helps plants in two ways: it keeps pests away and makes plants healthier. Neem oil is safe for the environment and won’t harm pets.

Also Read: What Causes White Lines on Tomato Leaves?

How to Use Neem Oil for Tomato Plants?

For the most effective neem oil spray, 

Go for concentrated neem oil products. 

Don’t use neem oil directly on your tomato plant; mix it with water and add a bit of soap. This mix creates a powerful spray that works well. 

To use neem oil on tomato plants, spread the neem oil mixture all over the plant and spray it well. 

After putting neem oil on your tomato plants the first time, do it again every 2-3 days for the first 14 days. 

Things you’ll need – 

• Neem oil
• Protective gloves
• Spray bottle
• Water
• Dish soap

1. Gather the Necessary Items

Before you start, gather all the necessary items to create your neem oil spray. You’ll need neem oil, protective gloves, a spray bottle, water, and dish soap.

Properly arranging your supplies is essential as this oil serves four purposes: it eliminates insects, stops larvae growth, prevents insect mating, and stops them from feeding on your crops.

2. Wear Gloves

Once you’ve got everything you need, the next important step is to protect yourself. When you’re around bugs and pests, they can be so small that they might get into your ears or nose without you knowing. So, before using any spray for bugs, wear gloves, cover your head, and wear full-body clothes. This way, you’ll be safe from those tiny critters.

3. Make the Oil Mixture

Crafting a neem oil spray for your tomato plants is easy and effective. Start by mixing two teaspoons of castile soap into 1 gallon of water – you can do this right in your 1-gallon sprayer container. Next, combine two tablespoons of neem oil. Thoroughly mix to ensure the neem oil blends evenly with the soapy water. However, neem oil’s strength diminishes after 8 hours, so only mix what you’ll use that day.

Add various necessary items for ½ gallon for different quantities: Combine one teaspoon of castile soap with ½ gallon of water, then add one tablespoon of neem oil. 

Ensure this task is completed during the spring season. Begin using this natural insecticide oil in spray form on your tomato plants from the beginning of their growth period. This timing is optimal as it offers them protection right from the start.

Avoid applying neem oil to tomato plants during intense sunlight, as the oil can harm the plants by overheating them. Use it in the late afternoon or early evening when the sun’s intensity is lower. 

4. Start Spraying the Oil

When spraying neem oil on your tomato plants, begin at the bottom and work your way up, ensuring every part of the plant is covered. Even check the sides, as some insects might hide under soil or rocks there.

This happens because of a compound in neem oil called azadirachtin, which fights germs and bugs. Neem oil works against many pests like mites, caterpillars, and aphids, and it can also help with diseases like mold and root rot.

But don’t use too much neem oil – you don’t want your tomatoes to taste or smell like it. The good news is that you’ll likely see results after using the spray on your plants for the first time.

If you find yourself with leftover neem oil mixture, there’s no need to discard it. Rather than storing or tossing it away, consider pouring it around the base of other plants in your garden. However, avoid using it around the tomato plants you’ve sprayed unless you have a severe infestation. 

How to Use Neem Oil for Aphids on Tomatoes?

Aphids are a group of insects that feed on plant sap, resulting in weak and stunted plant growth. These tiny and troublesome pests can wreak havoc on your plants, but fortunately, we’ve organic ways to get rid of them. Using neem oil on tomato plants is one such way.

Insect-repellent ability packed in neem oil helps to create an inhospitable environment for aphids and other pests. This natural solution will deter them from feeding on your plant.

Additionally, neem oil plays a vital role in disrupting the mass production of aphids.

With its dual action, neem oil can help your tomato plants to get rid of pests.

How to use: Dilute neem oil according to the instructions labelled on the product. Apply neem oil solution to the upper and lower parts of the tomato leaves.

Neem Oil as a Fertilizer

Neem cake is a product that comes from cold-pressed neem kernels, and the fruit holds a secret: it’s a versatile powerhouse serving as both a fertilizer and a pesticide. Blend neem cake into the soil or apply it as a covering near your plants.

This unique cake isn’t ordinary; it’s rich in organic goodness. As a fertilizer, neem cake enhances soil nitrogen availability and promotes robust plant growth. But that’s not all – it also takes on the role of a protective shield. It also helps control annoying white ants, nematodes, and grubs, ensuring your plants thrive without unwanted guests.

How often do you use neem oil for tomato plants?

Once you’ve given your tomato plants their first neem oil treatment, keep up the routine by reapplying the oil every 2 – 3 days over the initial 14-day period. This regularity ensures a strong defense against potential pests and problems. Following this, as a precautionary measure, continue applying neem oil to your tomato plants every three weeks.

This consistency provides optimal care for your tomato plants. And remember, for the best outcome, apply neem oil during the late afternoon or early evening. This timing maximizes the effectiveness of the treatment.

How do you make homemade neem oil for plants?

As mentioned above, you can use neem oil as a foliar spray to make your plant thrive. Here are some simple yet effective step-by-step guides – 

1. Mix the Emulsifier – Add a small amount (usually about half a teaspoon) of mild liquid soap to a quart of water. This soap will help the oil and water blend smoothly.

2. Add Neem Oil – To the soapy water, add neem oil. The ratio is around one or half teaspoon of neem oil per quart of water, but you can adjust this based on your plant’s needs and the concentration of your neem oil.

3. Combine – Gently mix the solution, ensuring the neem oil is well mixed into the soapy water. 

4. Spray on Plants – Using a spray bottle, spray the neem oil mixture on your plants, ensuring thorough coverage of both sides of the leaves. Be sure to get those hard-to-reach spots where pests might hide.

5. Apply Properly – Spray your plants early or late afternoon to prevent sunburn. Also, avoid spraying during very hot or windy conditions.

How much neem oil do I put on my tomato plants?

The quantity of neem oil you should use on your tomato plants depends on your specific neem oil product and the dilution ratio recommended on its label. Generally, for a neem oil foliar spray, a typical ratio is about 1-2 teaspoons of neem oil mixed with ½ gallon of water and a small amount of mild liquid soap to help emulsify the oil. 

Always follow the instructions on the product packaging carefully to ensure proper application and effectiveness without causing harm to your plants. Remember, using the right amount ensures the best results for your tomato plant’s health and protection.

Types of Neem Oil

Neem oil comes in a few variations, each with its benefits for plant care. Here are some types:

1. Cold-Pressed Neem Oil

When it comes to neem oil, the goal is clear. Look for “cold pressed” on the label – the oil is extracted gently, without too much heat or chemicals. This method keeps the good stuff in, producing a potent and pure product. It’s all about making the smart choice for your plants.

2. Clarified Hydrophobic Extract

Also known as “clarified neem oil,” this water-soluble version mixes easily with water for sprays. It’s effective against pests and won’t leave oily residue on leaves.

3. Neem Oil Emulsions

These are pre-mixed neem oil solutions that are ready to use. They’re convenient for quick application and work well against various pests.

4. Neem Oil Concentrate

This type needs to be diluted before use. It’s versatile and can be mixed according to your needs for different plants and pests.

Drawbacks of Using Neem Oil

1. Toxic to Marine life – Neem oil faces restrictions in the UK and Canada due to its minor toxicity to marine life.

2. Work Slower – While neem oil spray solution is effective, it operates slower than many commercial alternatives. Multiple applications are often necessary for optimal results.

3. Irritation to Eyes and Skin – According to the National Pesticide Information Center, neem oil has the potential to cause mild irritation to both the skin and eyes. Azadirachtin, a compound in neem oil, can lead to significant irritation, particularly to the skin and stomach. Handle neem oil carefully to avoid direct contact with skin and eyes.

4. Effects of Neem Oil on Pets – Neem oil ingestion can affect cats and dogs differently. In cats, a large quantity of ingestion can lead to symptoms like sluggishness, salivation, trembling, and difficulty in movement. On the other hand, in dogs, consuming neem oil might cause salivation, gagging or retching, trouble walking or standing, breathing difficulties, skin irritations, and eye discomfort.

If you suspect your pet has come into contact with or ingested neem oil, contact a veterinarian for guidance.

Neem oil alternative for tomato plants

If you’re curious about options other than neem oil, you can try garlic spray, rosemary oil, or soap spray. These are all-natural ways to keep your tomato plants healthy and protect them from pests.

1. Rosemary Oil

For those seeking an alternative to neem oil, consider using rosemary oil. Not only does it offer effectiveness in plant care, but it also boosts a delightful aroma. Rosemary oil provides a natural solution that can help with pest control and plant health, making it a valuable option for those who prefer a different scent in their garden.

2. Garlic Spray

Natural remedy that’s kind to both plants and the environment. That’s garlic spray for you! It’s becoming quite the favorite among gardeners for its dual power of nurturing plants and sending pests away. All you need are some garlic cloves and water. Blend them and then strain the mix. You’ve got your very own garlic-infused liquid ready to work its magic.

3. Soap Spray

Soap spray is a simple yet effective homemade remedy that gardeners have long favored for combating pests while being gentle on plants and the environment. Creating soap spray involves mixing a mild liquid soap (like Castile soap) with water in a spray bottle.

Can you eat tomatoes sprayed with neem oil?

You can eat tomatoes sprayed with neem oil, but ensure you wash them thoroughly before eating. However, applying neem oil on vegetables is not recommended if you plan to eat them the following day.

Neem oil is a natural solution and is indeed safe for tomato plants. Just follow the directions on the package, and remember to refrain from using Neem oil within 72 hours of harvesting. After harvesting, always give your tomatoes a thorough rinse.

Conclusion

Neem oil gives a range of advantages to your tomato plants. It helps them grow well and fight off pests and diseases effectively. But its benefits continue! Neem oil can also benefit your entire garden and even your indoor plants. Remember to carefully follow the instructions on the label to mix the neem oil correctly for controlling insects. Also, remember that neem oil’s effectiveness declines within eight hours when mixed with water and soap. It takes about three to four days to start showing results in terms of insect control.