Comparison: Best 5 1 1 Fish Emulsion (Updated | Dec 1st)
If you’re on the hunt for the best 5-1-1 fish emulsion to give your garden that natural boost, you’re not alone. Gardeners everywhere swear by this nutrient-rich powerhouse for lush greens, vibrant blooms, and healthier soil. But with so many options out there, how do you know which one delivers? Let’s find your garden’s perfect match.
- Best for wintergreen deodorized: Alaska Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 Concentrate 1 Gallon (Packaging may vary)
- Best for omri certified: Alaska Fish Fertilizer OMRI Listed 5-1-1
- Best for vitamin boost: CENTRAL GARDEN BRANDS 100099247 Fish Emul Fertilizer
- Best for compact power: Fertilome (10611) Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 (16 oz)
- Best for value size: Fertilome (10612) Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 (32 oz)
- Best for micronutrient rich: Liquinox 7128 Fish Emulsion 5-1-1 Fertilizer
- Best for 2-pack deal: Lilly Miller Alaska Fish Fertilizer 5-1-1 Concentrate 1 Quart (2-Pack)
- Best for convenient quart: Liquinox Fish Emulsion 5-1-1 1qt
- Best for pro 1-gallon: Fertilome (10614) Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 (1 gal)
- Best for whole-fish sustainable: 1 Gallon Organic Fish Emulsion Fertilizer for Plants – Ideal Liquid Fish Fertilizer for Plants
Product Comparison: Best 5 1 1 Fish Emulsion
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
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
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
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.
Liquinox 7128 Fish Emulsion 5-1-1 Fertilizer, 1-Gallon
- All purpose liquid fish fertilizer: Use on flowers, lawns, shrubs, trees, and other outdoor plants
- Primary nutrients source: Derived from seagoing fish
- Active ingredients: Includes iron, manganese, and zinc
- Fish emulsion 5-1-1: Suitable for soil or foliar application
- Safe and nonburning: Ideal for use on vegetables, flowers, shrubs, lawns, and trees
- Versatile application: Can be used on potted and house plants, fruits, vegetables, ornamentals, and shade trees
- Application rate: Recommended usage is 2 tablespoons per gallon monthly during the growing and blooming season
- Product type: Liquid fertilizer
- Package size: Available in a 1-gallon container
- Manufacturer: Liquinox
Lilly Miller Alaska Fish Fertilizer 5-1-1 Concentrate 1 Quart (2-Pack)
- 2 pack
Fertilome (10614) Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 (1 gal)
- 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.
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!
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 N‑PK ratio should I look for in a fish emulsion fertilizer?
The most common ratio for fish emulsion is 5‑1‑1, which provides a balanced source of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium for vigorous foliage and root development. This ratio works well for both indoor and outdoor plants, especially when you need a quick green boost. If you prefer a slightly higher potassium content for fruiting plants, look for formulas that list a 2‑3‑1 ratio.
How does the concentration of a product affect how I dilute it?
Concentrated formulas, like the 1‑gallon Alaska Fish Emulsion, require less product per gallon of water (typically 1‑2 Tbsp) compared to lower‑strength options that may need 2‑3 Tbsp. Using the correct dilution prevents over‑fertilizing and reduces the risk of leaf burn. Always follow the label instructions for the specific product you choose.
Is there a noticeable difference between OMRI‑listed and non‑OMRI fish emulsions?
OMRI‑listed products, such as the Alaska Fish Fertilizer 115 oz, are certified for organic gardening and meet strict standards for natural ingredients. Non‑OMRI emulsions still provide the same nutrient profile but may not be eligible for organic certification. Choose OMRI‑listed if you are growing certified organic produce or prefer a verified organic label.
Do any fish emulsions have added micronutrients, and should I care?
Yes, some formulas like Liquinox 7128 include iron, manganese, and zinc, which can help prevent micronutrient deficiencies in high‑yielding gardens. While nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are the primary nutrients, micronutrients support overall plant health and improve color and disease resistance. If your soil test shows low micronutrient levels, a product with added trace elements is beneficial.
How important is odor when selecting a fish emulsion?
Odor varies by brand; Alaska’s “deodorized with natural wintergreen” option reduces the typical fishy smell, making it more pleasant for indoor use. However, a stronger scent often indicates a higher concentration of real fish material, which can mean richer nutrient content. Decide based on where you’ll apply the fertilizer—choose low‑odor for indoor gardens and stronger‑scented for outdoor beds.
Which size should I buy for a small balcony garden versus a larger backyard?
For a balcony garden, a 16‑oz or 32‑oz bottle (e.g., Fertilome 5‑1‑1) is usually sufficient, allowing you to mix small batches without waste. Larger backyards benefit from 1‑gallon containers like the Central Garden Brands or Liquinox, which provide better value per ounce and reduce the number of refills. Consider how often you plan to fertilize and the total volume of water you’ll mix.
Are there cost‑effective options that still deliver quality performance?
Bulk sizes such as the 1‑gallon Fertilome or Liquinox often have a lower price per ounce while maintaining the standard 5‑1‑1 nutrient profile. Brands like Central Garden Brands also offer competitive pricing with added benefits like 11 vitamins and a claim of no burn. Compare the price per ounce and read reviews for consistency to ensure you’re getting both value and reliable results.