Growing Neem

[listnlook]

I did not necessarily want to start a new topic, but could not figure out how to post a message on the existing topic about growing neem. I gave away all my houseplants last year and grew neem in my living room over winter. They are currently thriving on my porch this summer. I plan to grow neem trees in the tropic where I will retire from these cold harsh climes in the coming year. A friend has started 14 trees for me there, awaiting in pots. I have become pretty passionate about this tree since learning about its wonderful diversity and gifts -- especially regarding its use as a safe alternative to unsafe chemical insecticides now being used throughout the planet causing all sorts of havoc (as predicted by Rachel Carson in the 70's). When I came across this forum, I said "wow", but looks like nobody here but me. Hope others will chime in as I look forward to learning all I can about growing neem.

[vnparsons]

Hi Listnlook,

We've been collecting information about neem for years, but the forum is relatively new. I've been growing neem in Central Florida since 1992 -- did you have specific comments or questions?

I can say, as Tropical Storm Fay just passed over our trees in Key West, that they handle hurricane-strength wind very well, at least in that rocky ground. About 30 percent of the trees planted at a Bahamian farm blew over but they had a Category 3 or 4 storm which we have (so far!) been lucky enough to escape.

If you're moving to a mountainous region in the tropics, you'll be glad to know that they're extremely good at holding onto soil and helping to prevent mudslides that are killing so many people in Haiti. I'd plant a nice grove immediately above me

Hope this helps and let us know if you have additional questions!

Vicki Parsons