Neem Tree (Azadirachta indica): How to Grow and Care for It in Jaipur

Weeding: young neem cannot withstand competition, especially from grasses. Weed twice in year 1 (during and after the monsoon) and once in year 2.

Monsoon (Jul–Sep): in year 1 plant, build the basin and fix the guard. Repair the basin in year 2 and widen it in year 3.

Post-monsoon (Oct–Nov): lay 8–10 cm of mulch in year 1, kept off the stem. Water weekly in year 1, every two weeks in year 2, and monthly in year 3 if it is dry.

Winter (Dec–Jan): in the first winter, cover the sapling at night with jute, a straw hood or a small hut open to the south whenever IMD issues a cold-wave or frost warning. Repeat on cold-wave nights in year 2. In year 3, simply trim any frost-killed shoot tips in March.

Spring (Feb–Mar): in dry spells neem may briefly drop most of its leaves. This is normal. Watch for scale insects, tea mosquito bug and shoot borer. In year 2, prune to one main stem and remove frost-damaged low branches.

Summer (Apr–Jun): water every 4–5 days in year 1, every 1–2 weeks in year 2, and in year 3 only in severe drought.

All year: do not over-water, check the base for termites and rodent damage, and remove the guard once the stem is above browsing height.