Some trees are always in demand because of their benefits. Neem (Azadirachta indica) is one of those trees. Neem, also called nim, margosa, holy tree, etc., is a fast-growing tree, and it comes under the mahogany family.
Neem is known for its health benefits, agricultural benefits, medicinal benefits, and much more. Since the old days, the plant has been used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine. Nowadays, a lot of people are also planting this tree in their gardens.
Neem tree: Key facts
| Botanical name | Azadirachta indica |
| Family | Meliaceae |
| Common name | Nim, margosa, holy tree, neem |
| Plant type | Medical evergreen tree |
| Native | Indian subcontinent |
| Leaf type | Alternate, petiolate, clustered at the end of the branches |
| Flower characteristics | small, white, bisexual flowers |
| Height | 30 metres |
| Season | All year round |
| Bloom time | January to May |
| Sun exposure | Direct sunlight |
| Soil type | rocky, dry, shallow, fertile soils |
| Ideal location for placement | Garden area with direct sunlight |
| Maintenance | Direct sunlight is mandatory |
| Fertilisation | No such fertilisation is required |
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Neem tree: Physical description
Neem is a very common herbal tree in almost all Indian regions, which is widely used for various medicinal benefits. The scientific name of the tree is Azadirachta indica. This tree comes under the mahogany family, also known as Meliaceae. The tree can grow up to 30 metres long sometimes.
Neem tree: How to grow?
The neem tree is easy to grow anywhere. The tree can be easily propagated. The neem tree can be grown from seeds, seedlings, or saplings. You can buy a sapling from a good nursery if you have no time to propagate directly from the seed.
But, in case you have time to grow a neem tree from a seed, you can go for this, and you need to take care of the seed properly. You have to keep in mind that if you store the seed for two to six months, it will lose the germination property.
Now, coming to the growth of the tree, it can grow in any soil region. It will be best if the annual rainfall of that region is 400 to 1200 mm. Still, it can grow in fewer rainfall areas too.
A fully grown neem tree is usually cut after 5 to 7 years for being used as wood or timber. And other parts, like leaves, flowers, fruits, etc., can be used from a very young age of the tree.
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Neem tree: Care tips
Neem tree: Sunlight requirements
Neem trees can grow in almost every place without much care. But still, sunlight is a good factor for the good growth of the neem tree.
Neem tree: Water requirements
The neem tree is a very low-maintenance tree that does not require much care. If you want to plant the neem tree, you do not need to water it daily when it is fully grown. But, if you want to plant the tree in a huge vase, you must water it daily to keep the soil damp.
Neem tree: Temperature requirements
Summer is the ideal time to start growing your neem tree. This plant thrives in warm temperatures and abundant sunlight, making the growth rate highest during the summer months. However, it’s important to note that the neem tree should not be exposed to temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
Neem tree: Fertiliser requirements
Once your neem tree has sprouted, it’s important to fertilise it on a monthly basis. This can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. Use a well-balanced fertiliser, such as a 20-20-20 mixture. The first number indicates the nitrogen content, the second number represents the amount of phosphorus, and the third number indicates the amount of potassium.
Neem tree: Pruning requirements
Regularly prune your neem tree once new shoots begin to grow out. For the best results, cut off the limbs as close to the tree as possible during early spring or late summer. This will ensure the tree remains healthy and strong.
Neem tree: Winter care
In winter, low temperatures may harm the neem tree, so it’s best to move it indoors. During this time, the tree goes dormant and needs less water. If the tree is kept outside, cover it or add light for warmth.
Neem tree: Benefits
Neem is such a tree that has almost all kinds of benefits for human bodies as well as agriculture. Here we have mentioned all those benefits of the neem tree.
Treating acne
Neem is a widely used antibiotic treatment for acne. It is packed with anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce acne.
Skin nourishment
Neem is packed with vitamin E, which helps to get very nourished skin.
Removes fungal infection
The antifungal property of neem helps to get rid of fungal infections.
Detoxifying property
Neem is good for detoxifying the body from all kinds of internal and external toxins. Those who have kidney and liver problems can consume neem powder to get a strong metabolism power. Neem scrubs and neem paste can be used on the skin to get rid of germs or dirt.
Wound healing property
The antiseptic property of neem helps to heal wounds quickly.
Soil fertility increasing property
Apart from the ayurvedic benefits of neem, agricultural benefits are also noticeable. Neem cake is used for increasing soil fertility. Neem cake is packed with lots of macro and micro nutrients, which help to make the soil good for agriculture.
Source: Pinterest
Neem tree: Toxicity
No, neem trees are not toxic at all. It is a very beneficial tree for humans.
FAQs
What is the scientific name of the neem?
The scientific name of the neem is Azadirachta indica.
Which parts of the name tree are used for health benefits and other significant benefits?
The whole neem tree is quite useful because almost all parts, like leaves, bark, twigs, fruits, woods, etc., are used for various purposes.
Can I grow the neem tree in my own garden?
Yes, the neem tree is easy to grow almost everywhere; even if the soil is not too fertile, the neem tree can grow easily.
What are some major benefits of the neem tree?
Neem is used for treating acne, skin problems, fungal infections, gastrointestinal diseases, etc.
Is neem antibacterial?
Yes, neem has antibacterial properties along with antiviral and antifungal properties.
