Neem Oil to get rid of plant insects.  How does Neem get rid of insects? Most insects die shortly after spraying. Those remaining become sterile and do not reproduce. I've heard a story of 2 desert locusts, 2 grape leaves and 2 bell jars. One grape leaf was sprayed with an insecticide, the other with Neem. One locust and one grape leaf were put under each bell jar. The locust ate the toxic leaf and died. The other locust refused to eat the Neem sprayed leaf and starved to death. From my experience the story could be true. I believe it is better if you can prevent the insect from eating the plant, than to let them eat the plant and then die. It takes years to lose the damaged leaves on most orchids. Flowers can be ruined before the critters will die from insecticide. I've not been disappointed with Neem Oil. I'm sure that many who read this will be sceptical because of the 'do everything' claim.

How to Use Neem Oil on Orchids
The first time you use Neem Oil, you will notice its distinct scent that smells like roasted nuts.  Neem Oil aficionados love the smell.  To use Neem Oil on orchids, use 1 oz. to 1 gallon of water + few drops of dish washing liquid (Sunlight or Ivory Dish washing Soap is recommended).  Poor the contents into your favorite spray bottle.  Spray every plant, bench, walkway and under every bench. In a few days there will be a definite improvement. The leaves on the orchids will look shiny because of the oil. You can was this off with water later. When you wash the Neem Oil off the orchid leaves, the water will wash off white. Wait 2 weeks and spray again. Keep a close eye on your plants for mealy bugs, scale and ants. You will notice that within a few applications (maybe just two) these pests will be gone and will not return for a long time. The smell of the Neem Oil takes a little getting used to but once you do, you will be hooked with this all natural way of getting rid of pests on orchids.