Neem-coated zyme, also known as neem-coated urea (NCU), is an agricultural input designed to enhance the efficiency of urea fertilizer application in farming. It combines two components: neem seed cake and urea. Here's how it works and its benefits:
Neem Seed Cake: Neem seed cake is obtained from the seeds of the neem tree (Azadirachta indica). Neem has natural pesticide and insect-repelling properties due to the presence of compounds like azadirachtin. When neem seed cake is mixed with urea, it coats the urea granules, giving it its name.
Urea: Urea is a common nitrogen-based fertilizer used in agriculture to provide essential nutrients to crops, especially for promoting their growth and yield.
The combination of neem seed cake and urea in neem-coated zyme offers several benefits in agriculture:
Slow Release of Nitrogen: Neem-coated zyme acts as a slow-release fertilizer. It helps in the gradual release of nitrogen to the plants, reducing the risk of nitrogen leaching into the soil or volatilization into the atmosphere. This leads to better nutrient uptake by crops.
Pest and Insect Control: Neem has natural pesticidal properties. When applied to crops, it can help deter pests and insects, reducing the need for separate pesticide applications.
Improved Soil Health: Neem seed cake contains organic matter that can improve soil health by enhancing microbial activity, moisture retention, and soil structure.
Reduced Environmental Impact: By reducing the loss of nitrogen through leaching and volatilization, neem-coated zyme helps in reducing the environmental impact associated with nitrogen fertilizers.
Enhanced Crop Yield: When used appropriately, neem-coated zyme can contribute to increased crop yields due to its slow-release properties and pest control effects.
It's important to note that the effectiveness of neem-coated zyme may vary depending on factors such as crop type, soil conditions, and local climate. Farmers should follow recommended guidelines for its application to achieve the best results.
Additionally, since my knowledge is based on information available up to September 2021, I recommend checking for any new developments or research in this area, as agricultural practices and products can evolve over time.