Neem oil has been an integral part of plant care for centuries. Originating from the seeds of the Azadirachta indica tree, commonly known as the Neem tree, this potent oil has cemented itself not only in the realms of traditional medicine but also in every avid gardener's kit. The history of Neem oil usage traces back to ancient India, where it was employed for its versatile healing properties and pest control abilities (Just remember though, we have not registered our Neem Oil as a pesticide or fungicide, so we cannot promote it as one). Fast forward to today and it's still a trusted ally for indoor plant enthusiasts. Its capacity to fight off pests, mildew, and fungi, while also promoting healthy growth, has earned it a prominent spot in the realm of indoor plant care. Embracing Neem oil as a part of your plant care routine means welcoming a natural and powerful remedy that has stood the test of time.
We love Neem for its leaf shine properties and this is what our Neem is all about. Harnessing the power of Neem oil as a natural leaf shine not only ensures your plants look lush and healthy but also provides a host of benefits. Because Neem Oil is non-comedogenic, it won't clog the pores of plant leaves, permitting them to breathe and carry out photosynthesis efficiently. It enhances the verdant lustre of your indoor beauties while acting as a protective barrier against dust and grime.
While synthetic alternatives to Neem oil are available on the market, they often fall short when compared to the natural, holistic benefits of Neem oil. These synthetic products often contain chemicals and artificial additives that may be harmful to your plants in the long run. For instance, synthetic leaf shines can potentially clog the pores of plant leaves, inhibiting their ability to carry out photosynthesis effectively. This is a stark contrast to non-comedogenic Neem oil that allows the leaves to breathe.
Moreover, synthetic options lack the nutrient-rich profile of Neem oil. Unlike Neem oil, synthetic leaf shines do not contribute to the overall health and resilience of the plant but merely offer a short-term aesthetic enhancement. They also lack the essential proteins and nutrients that bolster plant growth and resistance.
Neem oil, on the other hand, is a rich source of beneficial proteins and nutrients. Just as these nutrients bolster our health, they also foster plant growth and resilience. When applied to plants, these nutrients are absorbed, fortifying the plant from within and bolstering its resistance to pests and diseases. In short, Neem oil doubles as a natural leaf shine and a potent protector, making it a vital addition to your organic plant care toolkit.
Neem oil is available in both pure and pre-mixed forms, offering versatility for indoor plant parents. Pure Neem oil is concentrated and potent, providing the full strength of its nutrients and protective properties. It can be mixed with water at the desired concentration depending on the specific needs of your plants. Some gardeners prefer this form as it offers them control over the strength of the mixture.
On the other hand, pre-mixed Neem oil solutions are ready-to-use and offer convenience for those who prefer a hassle-free application. These mixtures often come pre-diluted with other carrier oils or water and may sometimes contain other beneficial ingredients like organic fungicides.
One of the questions we get asked alot, is when does neem oil expire?
Given its organic nature, it's understandable that Neem oil will expire and won't retain the same properties. As with any plant care product, it's important to familiarise yourself with the expiry date. For pure Neem oil, this is typically about two to five years after purchasing the bottle. Always check the label for exact instructions and when in doubt, discard any unused product a year after its purchase.
After mixing Neem oil with water, it remains active for approximately 8 hours. It is essential to use the mixture within this timeframe to ensure its efficacy. After this period, the active components of the oil tend to break down, and its potency reduces significantly. As a result, it's recommended to prepare only as much mixture as you need for a single application and use it immediately. If you have any leftover mixture, it's best to discard it rather than saving it for future use. Thus, the practical and effective use of Neem oil involves preparing fresh mixtures for each application, maintaining the strength and benefits the oil offers to your indoor plants.
Our Neem Oil, on the other hand, is prepared in such a way that the Azadirachtin in the Oil (the active component known for its plant care properties) remains potent for 18 months after mixing. We use plant-based oils to help preserve the Azadirachtin meaning you can keep your product on the shelf, ready to use at any time.
If you're unsure about how to start your leaf shine journey, then start with our Neem Oil Leaf shine.