Pesticides - Neemastra (நீமாஸ்திரா)

In our Agriculture for Everybody blog series, we are going to see Neemastra (நீமாஸ்திரா) which is an organic pest repellent and is popularised by Subhash Palekar.

Required Ingredients

S.No.	Ingredient Name	Qty in Litres/Kgs
1	Water	100 Litres
2	Fresh Cow Dung	5 Kgs
3	Cow's Urine	5 Litres
4	Neem Leaves	5 Kgs

Note:

• Fresh Cow Dung & Cow's Urine should be from Local Cows and not from cross-bred or foreign breeds.

Method of Preparation

1. Add the 5 Litres of Cow's Urine to the 100 Litres of Water.
2. Add the 5 Kgs of Cow Dung to the water as well.
3. Crush the 5 Kgs of Neem Leaves and add the Neem Pulp to the water as well.
4. Allow this solution to ferment for 24 hours.
5. Stir the solution twice a day by using a stick.
6. Filter the solution using a cloth and use it.

Note:

• Please note that the stick (neem stick is better or any pole) used for mixing the ingredients should be cleaned before & after the usage so as to avoid maggots formations in the pesticide.
• The pesticide should be kept in the shade and covered with a wire mesh or plastic mosquito net to prevent houseflies from laying eggs and the formation of maggots (worms) in the solution.

Method of Storage

1. The pesticide should be mixed thoroughly twice daily (in the morning & evening).
2. The pesticide should be kept in the shade and covered with a wire mesh or plastic mosquito net to prevent houseflies from laying eggs and the formation of maggots (worms) in the solution.  This is applicable during the preparation as well as during the shelf life of the pesticide as well.

How long can we store the Pesticide?

1. Not Applicable

How to use the Pesticide?

1. Spray System - The pesticide can be applied as a foliar spray.

When to use the Pesticide?

1. Generally, the ideal time for spraying is during 6 am to 8.30 am and between 4 pm and 6.30 pm.

Which pests are controlled by the Pesticide?

1. The pesticide is effective in controlling sucking pests and mealy bug.