Neem Cake is the nutrient‑rich residue left after pressing neem seeds for oil. Because it supplies slow‑release nitrogen and natural pest‑repelling compounds, it feeds crops while protecting them – no synthetic chemicals needed.
What Is Neem Cake?
When people ask what is neem cake, the short answer is “a plant‑based meal made from neem seed kernels.” Once the oil is extracted, the remaining material is dried and milled into flakes or powder. This by‑product still carries proteins, fiber, trace oil, and the famous bio‑active molecule azadirachtin.
- Nutrient profile: Independent tests list NPK values ranging from 4‑1‑1 to 6‑1‑2, plus calcium, sulfur and a suite of micronutrients.
- Natural pesticide factor: HPLC analysis has detected azadirachtin levels above 130 ppm in certain fractions, giving the meal a built‑in defence against more than 200 insect species.
Because it is entirely botanical, neem cake meets organic‑certification rules in most countries.
Why Use Neem Cake as Fertilizer?
Using neem cake as fertilizer tackles three agronomic challenges at once:
- Steady nutrition – Its nitrogen releases gradually, so less is lost to leaching.
- Better soil life – The carbon and proteins feed bacteria and fungi that create humus and improve structure.
- Chemical‑free defence – Even in the soil, azadirachtin wards off nematodes, borers and grubs, giving you the bonus of a neem cake pesticide effect.
Key Neem Cake Fertilizer Uses
Neem cake can be used effectively in various agricultural and gardening settings. For vegetable beds, mix 200 grams per square meter into the soil about two weeks before sowing to help fortify seedlings and promote healthy growth. In potting mixes, blend 5–8% of the total volume of neem cake—this is especially beneficial for plants like tomatoes, chillies, and other indoor greens.
When it comes to orchards and plantations, apply 2 to 4 kilograms per mature tree, ideally once before the monsoon and once again before flowering to enhance nutrient availability and plant immunity. For field crops, neem cake should be broadcast at a rate of 200–400 pounds (90–180 kilograms) per acre, although it’s best to follow local soil test recommendations for accuracy.
Additionally, neem cake works well in compost piles. Sprinkling 1 kilogram for every 20 kilograms of organic biomass not only speeds up the composting process but also helps to repel flies and harmful insects naturally.
With such versatility, neem cake for plants can replace several synthetic inputs in one go.
Practical Neem Cake Application Techniques
Correct neem cake application maximises results:
- Soil incorporation – Work granules 10–15 cm deep at least ten days before planting.
- Side dressing – Rake a handful along crop rows 30–40 days after germination for a mid‑season boost.
- Pot top‑up – Add 1–2 Tbsp around container plants monthly during active growth.
- Seed coating – Dust moistened seeds to guard against damping‑off fungi.
- Neem‑cake tea – Steep 100 g in 1 L water for 24 h, strain and drench the soil for an instant microbial tonic.
Case Study: Neem Cake on a Chilli Farm
A smallholder in Karnataka replaced chemical urea and carbofuran with neem cake for plants on one acre of chilli. He incorporated 350 kg during bed preparation and side‑dressed another 50 kg at flowering. Within two seasons he recorded:
- 18 % yield increase, verified by the local Krishi Vigyan Kendra.
- A sharp drop in root‑knot nematode galls—practical proof of the neem cake pesticide effect.
- Soil organic carbon rising from 0.52 % to 0.71 %.
Input costs fell by about ₹3,200 per acre while net profit went up.
Neem Cake’s Role as a Pesticide
As microbes break down the meal they release azadirachtin, nimbin and salannin. These compounds disrupt insect feeding and moulting but are harmless to mammals, birds, bees and earthworms. Field trials show up to 70 % fewer root‑knot nematodes in tomato plots amended with the product, while earthworm numbers actually increase.
Protection lasts four to six weeks—longer than a foliar spray—so combining soil amendment with neem‑oil sprays creates an all‑around organic shield.
About Us – Naturextrakte Bioscience Pvt. Ltd.
At Naturextrakte Bioscience, we are committed to offering 100% natural, sustainable, and farm-friendly solutions. Our premium Neem Cake is made from carefully selected neem seeds and processed under strict quality standards to retain maximum nutrient value and azadirachtin content.
We offer:
- Neem Cake – Pure, pesticide-rich soil enhancer
- Neem Powder – Finely milled for custom applications
- Neem Liquid Extract – Ideal for foliar sprays and soil drenches
Our neem products are 100% natural, bulk-available, and suitable for organic farming.
Get in touch today to place bulk orders or learn how our neem range can boost your crop yield, naturally.
