Five questions with Hayden Davis

1. What is neem and where does it come from?

The word neem refers to a tree called Azadirachta indica. In the gardening world, neem refers to the oil from the seed. But the real magic is from a compound called azadirachtin, which can be extracted from the oil.

2. What are the benefits of a neem-based solution?

Neem is a naturally occurring insecticide. One unique benefit would be the insect growth regulator (IGR) characteristics related to the azadirachtin in the neem. This IGR quality stops or slows the maturation of insects. This reduces the number of mature insects that can breed and reproduce, eventually leading to a colony collapse. Also, azadirachtin works as an antifeedant and anti-ovipositor (slows egg-laying capabilities).

3. How is AzaSol^® different from other neem products?

AzaSol is a water-soluble powdered neem containing 6% azadirachtin. As an OMRI Listed, non-oil-based product, with the highest amount of azadirachtin on the market, AzaSol stands alone. Neem products are usually oil-based, which can lead to clogging of your spray bottle and even cause foliage burning during the hotter months or under grow lights.

4. Are neem treatments used before or after outbreak?

A preventative treatment will be significantly more effective because young insects are much more susceptible to growth regulation, as opposed to adults, or mature insects. Therefore, treating plants regularly and before any pest damage is present is so important. As insects feed and try to colonize a plant that has been pre-treated with azadirachtin, the egg-laying can be reduced. The adolescent insect will not be able to mature to lay eggs. Consistent applications after an outbreak are common practice and can help you regain control of the crop. If your customers really want to take full advantage of the IGR qualities, then treating preventatively would be my first choice.

5. A product like AzaSol^® is both translaminar and systemic, what does that mean?

Since AzaSol is 100% soluble, this means that any way you can get water on or in the plant, AzaSol will follow. This makes it a great tool for treating pests because it will not hurt fresh seedlings, cuttings or sensitive plant material. Soluble and 6% azadirachtin, AzaSol offers an ideal solution to protect plants when they’re young. If your customers make plants undesirable to pests from the start, then you won’t have to battle full-blown colonies and possibly lose your precious plants!

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