At Ritchie Feed & Seed, we know many gardeners are looking for effective, eco-friendly ways to keep pests under control. One question we’ve heard a lot lately is: “Do you sell neem oil?” The short answer is no — and here’s why.
Why Neem Oil Isn’t Sold in Canada
While neem oil is often marketed internationally as a natural pesticide, Health Canada has not approved neem oil for use on plants as a pest control product. This means it cannot be legally sold in Canada for garden or agricultural pest management. The restrictions are in place because pesticide products — whether synthetic or natural — must go through rigorous testing to ensure they are safe for people, pets, wildlife, and the environment.
Until neem oil meets Canadian regulatory standards and receives official approval, it’s not a product you’ll find on our shelves.
Effective Alternatives for Pest Control
Just because neem oil isn’t an option here doesn’t mean your plants are left unprotected. There are several approved, safe, and reliable solutions to help you manage pests in your garden.
1. Insecticidal Soap
This is one of our top recommendations for controlling soft-bodied insects such as aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Insecticidal soap works by breaking down the outer coating of pests, causing them to dehydrate — all without leaving harmful residues on your plants.
2. Hand-Picking
For larger pests like Japanese beetles, nothing beats the early morning hand-pick-and-drop method. Removing them before they become active helps reduce feeding damage and lowers population numbers over time.
3. Beneficial Insects
Ladybugs, lacewings, and predatory mites are natural allies in your garden. Attracting these beneficial insects with nectar-rich flowers can help maintain a healthy, balanced ecosystem.
4. Physical Barriers
Row covers, netting, and collars around seedlings can physically prevent pests from reaching your plants — a safe and chemical-free solution for many situations.
Our Approach to Plant Care
At Ritchie Feed & Seed, we believe in providing solutions that are effective, safe, and compliant with Canadian regulations. Our team is always happy to recommend the right product or strategy for your specific garden challenges — whether that’s insecticidal soap, cultural practices, or natural pest predators.
If you’re dealing with a pest problem, come see us in-store or reach out online. We’ll help you find a solution that works for you, your plants, and the planet.
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