Neem cake is an organic fertilizer derived from the residue left after neem seeds are pressed for oil. This byproduct is rich in nutrients and serves as both a soil amendment and a natural pesticide. It releases nutrients slowly, ensuring continuous and balanced nutrition for plants throughout their growth cycle. Benefits of neem cake fertilizer Using neem cake offers numerous advantages for both your plants and the soil: Enriches the soil: It is packed with essential macro- and micronutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK), which enhance overall soil fertility. It also improves the soil's organic content, texture, and water-holding capacity. Provides natural pest control: The cake contains compounds like azadirachtin, which act as a natural pest repellent and insecticide. It helps control soil-borne pests such as nematodes, grubs, white ants, and termites. Acts as a nitrification inhibitor: Neem cake slows the conversion of nitrogenous compounds into nitrogen gas, prolonging the availability of nitrogen in the soil for crops. This makes your nitrogen fertilizers more efficient. Safe and eco-friendly: As a 100% natural and biodegradable product, it is non-toxic to humans, beneficial insects (like earthworms), and pollinators. Increases crop yield: Studies have shown that using neem cake can lead to higher crop yields compared to conventional fertilizers. Improves plant health: By creating a healthier soil environment and boosting nutrient uptake, neem cake strengthens plants' immune systems and helps suppress root-borne diseases. How to use neem cake fertilizer Neem cake can be applied in various ways for different gardening needs: For potted plants: Mix neem cake into your potting soil during preparation. For example, add a handful to a 12-inch pot. For established plants, sprinkle 1 to 2 tablespoons around the base of the plant every 4–6 weeks and water thoroughly. For garden beds: Mix the powder or pellets into the soil before planting. A common recommendation is to use about 100–200 grams per square meter. For trees: Apply 2–4 kilograms of neem cake around the base of mature trees and mix it into the soil. For liquid fertilizer (Neem tea): As described in a video by Agri Farming, you can soak 250 grams of neem cake in 5 liters of water for 20 days. After fermentation, strain the mixture and dilute it with water before applying it as a soil drench or foliar spray. Popular neem cake products Numerous brands offer neem cake fertilizer in powder, pellet, or cake form.