Comparison: Best Fish Emulsion For Plants (Updated | Nov 11th)
If your garden’s looking a little under the weather, the fix might just come from the sea. We’ve dug into the top contenders—smell test and all—to help you choose the most effective, easy-to-use fish emulsion that’ll have your garden thriving without breaking the bank.
- Best for vitamin boost: CENTRAL GARDEN BRANDS 100099247 Fish Emul Fertilizer
- Best for wintergreen fresh: Alaska Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 Concentrate 1 Gallon (Packaging may vary)
- Best for us-made complete: Fish Emulsion Fertilizer
- Best for omri certified: Alaska Fish Fertilizer OMRI Listed 5-1-1
- Best for yield-boosting liquid: 1 Gallon Organic Fish Emulsion Fertilizer for Plants – Ideal Liquid Fish Fertilizer for Plants
- Best for compact green builder: Fertilome (10611) Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 (16 oz)
- Best for large-scale green: Fertilome (10612) Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 (32 oz)
- Best for low-odor powder: Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 12-2-2 Powder (3.3 pounds Powder-Up to 300 Gallons of Water)
- Best for omega-rich salmon: Bloom City Organic Wild Fish Fertilizer and Plant Supplement
- Best for fish-kelp fusion: GS Plant Foods Liquid Fish & Kelp Fertilizer (1 Gallon) – Organic Material Review Institute Listed Natural Plant Food for Home Gardens
Product Comparison: Best Fish Emulsion For Plants
CENTRAL GARDEN BRANDS 100099247 Fish Emul Fertilizer, 1 Quart
- Promotes healthy plant growth with 11 vitamins
- Can be used on all indoor and outdoor plants
- 100-percent organic
- Stimulates microorganisms
- Does not burn
Alaska Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 Concentrate 1 Gallon (Packaging may vary)
- Will Not Burn
- Great for all plants
- Deodorized with Natural Wintergreen
- 5-1-1 fertilizer is an excellent source of organic plant nutrients
- Fish Fertilizer
Fish Emulsion Fertilizer, Complete Fish Emulsion Plant Food, 8 oz (250mL)
- Complete fish fertilizer for thriving plants
- Helps growth with natural harvest salmon nutrients
- Easy-to-follow care instructions included
- Made in the USA
Alaska Fish Fertilizer OMRI Listed 5-1-1, 115 oz
- Fish-based fertilizer for use in vegetable, fruit, and flower gardens
- Excellent for use on flowers, trees, and other plants
- OMRI listed
- For organic gardening
- Great for all indoor and outdoor plants
- NPK 5-1-1 fish emulsion fertilizer
- Fish has been used as a natural source of plant nutrients for centuries
- Easy to use, just mix with water
1 Gallon Organic Fish Emulsion Fertilizer for Plants – Ideal Liquid Fish Fertilizer for Plants, Flowers, Fruits & Vegetables, 2-3-1 NPK – Sustainably Sourced and Hydrolyzed for Steady Growth
- ORGANIC FISH EMULSION FERTILIZER – Our liquid fish fertilizer is made from sustainably sourced fish emulsion and we use up all the parts that would otherwise go to waste. Using an environmentally conscious method, ingredients are refined fresh and 100% cold pressed to help retain all of the nutrients, vitamins, and amino acids needed to grow healthy plants.
- GROW PLANTS NATURALLY – This wonderfully organic alternative to synthetic fertilizer contains a 2-3-1 NPK ratio perfect for light and frequent applications. Promotes steady, healthy plant development throughout the growing season.
- ENRICHES SOIL – Helps build a strong foundation for your organic garden to thrive on! Use as an effective soil drench to improve fertility, structure, and encourage the growth of beneficial microorganisms like fungi in your garden’s soil.
- PRODUCE MORE – Get the most out of your fertilizer and your garden! This organic garden fertilizer helps to increase crop yields and flower blooms. Gentle enough to use as a foliar spray makes this the perfect fish fertilizer for plants, flowers, and vegetables.
- SMELL THE DIFFERENCE – This fertilizer smells like fish because it’s made from fish! Crafted with high-quality concentrated and undiluted hydrolyzed fish emulsion each bottle gives off a pungent fishy aroma. When compared, we see it like this – if it doesn’t smell, then it’s not real fish!
Fertilome (10611) Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 (16 oz)
- Develops deep green foliage, vigorous root systems and a solid plant structure
- Derived from fish soluble, can be used from indoor and outdoor. Can be used on plants and trees.
- Mixes with water and can be used by any convenient method of application. Shake well before use.
- 5-1-1 Fertilizer contains 5% Nitrogen, 1% Phosphate and 1% Soluble Potash.
- For plants mix 1-2 tbsp per 1 gal of water. For trees mix 4 tbsp per gal of water.
Fertilome (10612) Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 (32 oz)
- Develops deep green foliage, vigorous root systems and a solid plant structure
- Derived from fish soluble, can be used from indoor and outdoor. Can be used on plants and trees.
- Mixes with water and can be used by any convenient method of application. Shake well before use.
- 5-1-1 Fertilizer contains 5% Nitrogen, 1% Phosphate and 1% Soluble Potash.
- For plants mix 1-2 tbsp per 1 gal of water. For trees mix 4 tbsp per gal of water.
Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 12-2-2 Powder (3.3 pounds Powder-Up to 300 Gallons of Water), for Vegetables, Trees, Lawns, Shrubs, Flowers, Fruits
- Organic Fish Protein :12-2-2 NPK powder made from 100% fish dried liquid powder, ground, and highly water-soluble when mixed.
- 2× Super Concentrated Powder: 1 lb (≈450 g) makes up to 100 gal of liquid feed,ideal for both large veggie plots and indoor/hydro gardens, creating high-value yield.
- Proven Results and Trusted Organic Fertilizer: Comparison experient conducted on same seed, same soil. The fertilizer supports visible growth and robust fruit set.
- Promotes Healthier Roots & Foliage: Rich in natural amino acids and micronutrients, boosts plant stress resistance, soil biology, and nutrient uptake.
- Reduced Odor, Easy to Use: Dry powder form alleviates the strong “fishy” smell of traditional emulsions. Simple to store, measure, and apply; mix and water every 1–2 weeks.
- Sustainable & Responsibly Sourced: Made in small batches from by products of the fish meal industry, organically biodegradable with minimal waste.
- Includes a teaspoon for ease of measurement
Bloom City Organic Wild Fish Fertilizer and Plant Supplement, Great for Roots and Soil, Made from Sustainable Salmon, 1/2 Pint (8 oz)
- FROM SUSTAINABLE ALASKAN SALMON: Great for Soil and Plants, for indoor and outdoor use.
- CONTAINS SALMON EMULSION AND SALMON OIL: Very high in omega 3 Fatty Acids for Plants. More Amino Acids than any other brand.
- SMELLS LIKE FISH: You know this is the good stuff, because is really really smells like ocean and fish.
- HIGHEST QUALITY, MOST POTENT, BEST VALUE, BIGGEST YIELD: Bloom City’s ingredients are better for plants, better for you, and better for the planet. Simply the best choice for the conscientious grower.
- FORMULATED AND MADE IN THE USA: Designed by botanists and plant chemists in Seattle, Washington. Bloom City chooses only the highest quality ingredient sources and manufacturing methods to create the world’s best craft growing nutrient systems.
GS Plant Foods Liquid Fish & Kelp Fertilizer (1 Gallon) – Organic Material Review Institute Listed Natural Plant Food for Home Gardens, Lawns, and Vegetables
- ORGANIC MATERIALS REVIEW INSTITUTE LISTED FOR TRUSTED GARDEN CARE Certified by OMRI for use in organic growing, GS Plant Foods Liquid Fish & Kelp Fertilizer delivers reliable, natural nutrition for vegetables, lawns, flowers, and shrubs.
- SEA-AND-SOIL BASED NUTRITION Made from North Atlantic seaweed (Ascophyllum nodosum) and fresh fish hydrolysate, this liquid concentrate provides essential nutrients and trace minerals that help support healthy soil and plant development.
- IMPROVES SOIL MICROBIOLOGY & NUTRIENT UPTAKE Supports a thriving soil ecosystem that promotes strong root systems and efficient nutrient absorption — the foundation for resilient, productive plants.
- EASY-TO-USE CONCENTRATE FOR ALL PLANTS Mix 2 oz per gallon of water and apply as a foliar spray or soil drench every 2–4 weeks. Safe for use on vegetables, fruits, ornamentals, turf, and houseplants.
- MADE IN THE USA – SUSTAINABLY PRODUCED Proudly produced by GS Plant Foods as a licensed fertilizer manufacturer. No synthetic chemicals, additives, or fillers — just natural ingredients formulated for healthy home gardens and hobby farms.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What NPK ratio should I look for in a fish emulsion fertilizer?
Most fish emulsions offer a 5-1-1 or 2-3-1 ratio, which provides a balanced source of nitrogen for foliage and modest phosphorus and potassium for root development. Choose 5-1-1 if you need a stronger nitrogen boost for leafy growth, and 2-3-1 if you prefer a gentler, more frequent feeding schedule. Both ratios are organic and safe for edible plants.
How important is the OMRI listing when selecting a fish emulsion?
An OMRI (Organic Materials Review Institute) listing guarantees that the product meets strict organic standards, which is crucial for certified organic gardens. Products like Alaska Fish Fertilizer OMRI Listed 5-1-1 and GS Plant Foods Liquid Fish & Kelp carry this certification, ensuring no prohibited synthetic additives. If you grow vegetables for market, the OMRI label can protect your organic certification.
Do liquid fish emulsions smell worse than powdered versions?
Liquid fish emulsions typically retain a strong fishy odor because the nutrients are extracted from whole fish; this is a sign of authenticity, as noted for the 1‑gallon Organic Fish Emulsion. Powdered options, such as the 12‑2‑2 Fish Emulsion Powder, are processed to reduce odor while still delivering the same nutrients. If odor is a concern for indoor use, a low‑odor powder may be more comfortable.
Which product gives the best value per gallon?
When comparing cost efficiency, the 1‑gallon Organic Fish Emulsion (2‑3‑1 NPK) provides a high nutrient concentration at a lower price per ounce than many 5‑1‑1 concentrates. The 5‑gallon Alaska Fish Emulsion also offers bulk savings for large gardens. Consider how often you’ll apply; a more concentrated formula may require less product over the season, improving overall value.
Can I use the same fish emulsion on indoor houseplants and outdoor vegetable beds?
Yes, most fish emulsions are labeled safe for both indoor and outdoor use, including Central Garden Brands and Fertilome 5‑1‑1 blends. For indoor plants, dilute to the lower end of the recommended mixing ratio to avoid excess moisture and odor buildup. Outdoor applications can tolerate slightly stronger solutions, especially for heavy‑feeding crops.
How do I choose between a ready‑to‑use liquid and a concentrate that needs dilution?
Ready‑to‑use liquids, like the 8 oz Complete Fish Emulsion, are convenient for quick applications and small‑scale gardening. Concentrates such as the 5‑1‑1 Gallon versions require mixing with water, which offers flexibility to adjust strength for different plant stages. If you have a large garden or multiple beds, a concentrate usually provides better cost efficiency and customization.
What extra benefits do fish emulsions with added kelp or salmon oil provide?
Formulations that combine fish emulsion with kelp, like GS Plant Foods Liquid Fish & Kelp, add trace minerals and natural hormones that enhance root development and stress tolerance. Salmon‑oil‑rich products, such as Bloom City Organic Wild Fish Fertilizer, supply higher levels of omega‑3 fatty acids, which can improve leaf vigor and fruit quality. These blends are ideal for growers seeking a premium nutrient profile.
How often should I apply fish emulsion for optimal growth?
Most manufacturers recommend a light feeding every 2–4 weeks, applying a diluted solution as a soil drench or foliar spray. For fast‑growing annuals, a bi‑weekly schedule can boost foliage, while perennials benefit from monthly applications to support root health. Always follow the label’s mixing instructions to avoid over‑fertilizing, which can lead to leaf burn.