Comparison: Best 511 Fish Emulsion (Updated | Dec 1st)

For most garden applications, a 5-1-1 ratio provides a balanced source of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium that promotes leafy growth without over-fertilizing. This ratio is common among the products listed, such as Alaska Fish Emulsion and Fertilome varieties. Choose a 5-1-1 emulsion if you want steady growth for vegetables, flowers, and lawns.

An OMRI (Organic Materials Review Institute) listing guarantees the product meets organic certification standards, which is crucial for certified organic farms and gardeners. Alaska Fish Fertilizer OMRI Listed 5-1-1 explicitly carries this certification, while many other brands do not mention it. If organic compliance is a priority, select an OMRI‑listed fertilizer.

Larger containers, such as the 1‑gallon bottles from Alaska Fish Emulsion, Fertilome (1 gal), and Liquinox (1 gal), typically have a lower cost per ounce compared to quart or 16‑oz options. Buying a gallon reduces the frequency of repurchasing and often includes a more consistent concentration. For extensive beds or multiple beds, the gallon size is usually the most economical choice.

Alaska Fish Emulsion advertises a deodorized formula with natural wintergreen, which can be preferable for indoor or close‑quarter gardening. Most other products, like the standard Liquinox or Fertilome emulsions, retain a typical fishy scent that some gardeners find off‑putting. If odor is a concern, especially for indoor use, choose a deodorized or low‑odor option.

Most 5‑1‑1 fish emulsions recommend 1‑2 tablespoons per gallon of water for general garden plants, while trees often require a stronger mix of about 4 tablespoons per gallon. Products such as Fertilome and Alaska Fish Emulsion provide these guidelines on the label. Adjusting the concentration ensures you give enough nutrients without risking burn on more delicate foliage.

Liquinox 7128 lists iron, manganese, and zinc as additional ingredients, which can help address micronutrient deficiencies in soil. While the basic 5‑1‑1 ratio supplies primary nutrients, the extra trace elements support overall plant health and vigor. If your soil test shows low micronutrient levels, a formula with added minerals may be advantageous.

Higher‑concentration concentrates, like the Alaska Fish Emulsion 5‑1‑1, require less product per application, potentially lowering long‑term costs despite a higher upfront price. Diluted formulas (e.g., 16‑oz bottles) may seem cheaper but need more frequent repurchasing. Evaluate the cost per usable ounce after dilution to determine true value.

The 1‑gallon Organic Fish Emulsion (B09FZTPQJL) highlights sustainably sourced fish and a cold‑pressed process that preserves nutrients, emphasizing environmental responsibility. While many brands focus on organic content, explicit sustainability statements can guide eco‑conscious shoppers. Look for language about waste reduction, sustainable sourcing, or cold‑pressing when evaluating green credentials.