Can Neem Trees Grow In The USA? How To Plant & Harvest Leaves?

Neem, or Indian Lilac, is a tropical plant. Can neem trees grow in the USA? Let’s check out the best conditions for the growth of this plant and how to harvest its leaves here. Its leaves, flowers, seeds, and other parts have excellent benefits for our health. 

Can Neem Tree Grow In the USA? How To Plant & Harvest It?

I. Can Neem Tree Grow In the USA?

The answer is ‘Yes’. This tropical plant can grow in the southern states of the United States. Florida, Arizona, and California have the ideal growing conditions for this floral species. These states have a warm climate with high temperatures. 

However, this plant cannot withstand low temperatures. It requires warm temperatures all year round. Therefore, they may not survive in cold regions with extended frosting periods.

II. Growing Conditions For Neem Tree

Neem trees survive and develop well in warm and tropical climates with adequate sunlight and well-drained soil. Here are the standard conditions for the growth of this plant.

2.1. Soil & Climate

They can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and soils. But sandy loam or laterite soil with a pH between 6.2 and 7 are the best soil types for them. They can tolerate drought and short periods of flooding. These trees require regular watering during the first two years of growth. Then, they can survive in long periods of drought once their roots mature. 

2.2. Planting Season

Gardeners should plant neem trees in the monsoon season (between June and August) in tropical or subtropical regions. It will help them establish strong roots before the dry season begins. It is best to grow the seedlings in warm months. The soil temperature must be above 20°C (68 °F).

2.3. How fast does neem tree grow?

It typically takes 7-10 years for this floral species to reach maturity and produce fruit in the USA. However, it can grow tall and provide some benefits, such as shade or leaves for herbal tea. Its seed oil and leaf powder are good natural remedies for hair and skin. 

III. How To Plant Neem Tree From Seeds

You can grow a neem tree from seeds and seedlings. If you have neem seeds, you should start them during the warm season in the US. Learn how to grow this tree from seeds here.

3.1. Start Seeds

It would be best to start neem seed in a pot or tray before transplanting the seedling to your garden. Follow these steps to germinate this plant seed. 

1. Soak the neem seeds in water overnight.
2. Take out the seeds and place them on a paper towel to dry for 1-2 days.
3. Mix equal parts of sand, soil, and compost to have the starting soil.
4. Fill the flower pot or seed tray with the soil mix and lightly moisten it.
5. Sow the seed about ½ inch deep and cover it gently.
6. Place the pot or tray in a warm, bright location but avoid direct sun exposure.
7. Keep the soil evenly moist but not too flooded.

This plant seed usually takes about 10-14 days to germinate. Once its sprout appears, move the pot to a sunny place to let it grow into a healthy plant.

3.2. Transplant & Grow Seedlings

When the seedling reaches 6-8 inches in height and has at least four leaves, move it to the garden. It is usually ready for transplanting around 4-6 weeks after germination. Follow these steps to plant it. 

1. Choose a place to grow the tree with full sunlight and well-drained soil.
2. Dig a hole in the ground. It must be twice as wide and deep as the root ball of the young plant.
3. Add compost or aged manure to the bottom of the hole.
4. Carefully remove the root ball from the pot and place it in the center of the hole. Avoid damaging its roots.
5. Backfill the hole with soil and pack it firmly.
6. Water the newly planted tree thoroughly.
7. Use a stake to support the tree if it is not standing straight.
8. Mulch around the tree base with organic matter to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

You had better plant the tree in the morning when the temperature is not too high. 

3.3. Take Care Of Neem Trees

Take care of the tree after planting and during its development. Here are essential works to do for the healthy growth of the tree.  

Watering: Water the tree once a week and more frequently during dry seasons, but avoid over-watering it.

Pruning: Cut trees and shape the foliage in late winter or early spring to promote growth and remove infected branches.

Fertilization: Applying compost or manure can fertilize the soil and boost the growth of the neem tree. Maintain the soil pH level between 6.5 and 7.5.

Sunlight: This tropical and subtropical plant prefers full sunlight. You should provide the tree with six hours of direct sunlight daily.

Inspection & disease treatment: Neem trees are resistant to pests and diseases. However, you need to inspect the tree regularly to treat them with an appropriate pesticide or fungicide if it emerges.

Mature tree needs less care. But keep an eye on the development of the tree to prevent diseases, pests, and sudden death. 

IV. Gather & Store Neem Leaves

Two-year-old trees are ready for leaf harvesting. You had better gather leaves during the summer when it produces new foliage. Pick them during the morning time for the best quality. Then, follow these steps to collect and dry its leaves.

1. Use pruning shears or scissors to cut healthy mature leaves. Choose the leaves from the outer branches of the tree.
2. Rinse the leaves with water to remove sand, dirt, and debris.
3. Use a clean paper towel or cloth to pat the leaves dry.
4. Spread the leaves in a single layer on a tray or drying rack.
5. Then, put the tray in a warm and dry place. Avoid direct sunlight.
6. Let them dry for several days until they become crisp and brittle.
7. Store the dried neem leaves in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
8. Ensure the neem leaves are dried thoroughly before storing them to prevent mold and spoilage.

You can make herbal tea from these dried leaves. Dried leaves are the main ingredients for neem powder. 

V. Conclusion

Can neem trees grow in the USA? This article has answered this question. You can plant this tropical floral species if you live in the southern states of this country. Buy some neem seeds from The Rike to germinate and grow Indian Lilac in your garden. Then, gather and dry its leaves for herbal leaf tea. You can find many other herbal teas from this supplier.