Growing Instructions

A native of India, neem is an extraordinarily hardy tree that thrives in ecosystems ranging from the Sahara Desert to the wet salty environment of the Florida Keys. The only pests known to harm it are directly related to over watering: slugs (which are mollusks not insects) and several strains of root rot.

In Florida and other tropical climates, neem quickly becomes a valuable shade tree, growing up to 10 feet per year under optimum conditions. In colder climates, neem can easily be grown in large pots, spending winter months in a sunny window and summers outdoor. (Neem trees will even survive without any natural sunlight, although they will not grow.)

A potted neem tree is a highly decorative plant that actually repels pests such as scale and spider mites that can kill common houseplants like ficus or palm trees. Even novice gardeners can grow neem because it clearly indicates when it needs water and fertilizer. Leaves start to droop as the soil dries out, then quickly revive after watering. Well-fertilized neem trees sport bright-red new growth; when growth slows, they need more nutrients.

We recommend that neem trees be planted in pots as large as can be handled, because they are like goldfish - they will get as big as their pots allow. If you do not have a compost pile or a favorite potting soil, ask your garden center for a premium potting soil mix. Unless you’re an expert gardener, please don’t use soil from your yard. For optimum growth, fertilize weekly with fish emulsion at half the recommended rate and use a balanced organic fertilizer monthly while the tree is growing.

We plant neem seeds in flats because they can be notoriously difficult to germinate. The 2005 harvest is our best ever, with germination rates in excess of 90 percent.

Neem trees, like many tropical plants, are day-length sensitive and will stop growing in the winter unless supplemental light is provided. If you expect to harvest neem year-round, make sure your tree receives as much natural light as possible during the day, then several hours of artificial light at night during the short days of winter. (It does not have to be a lot of light - a near-by living room lamp is fine.)

Neem Seeds

Neem seeds are only viable for about 30 days after they are harvested, and fruit ripens in mid-summer. We begin shipping seeds to US and EU destinations in mid-July. We run out of seeds quickly, so if you would like to be notified as soon as they are available, please sign up for our mailing list.

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