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

For general leafy growth, a higher nitrogen ratio like 5-1-1 works well, as seen in Alaska Fish Emulsion and Fertilome products. If you want more balanced nutrition for fruiting plants, consider a 2-3-1 or 12-2-2 ratio, which provides extra phosphorus for blooms and fruit set. Choose the ratio that matches the growth stage and type of plants you are cultivating.

Liquid emulsions, such as the 1‑gallon Alaska or Liquinox options, are ready to dilute and apply, offering quick nutrient uptake and easy foliar feeding. Powdered formulas like the 12‑2‑2 Fish Emulsion Powder are less odorous, have a longer shelf life, and can be mixed to create large volumes of feed for extensive gardens. Your choice depends on convenience versus storage and odor considerations.

Traditional fish emulsions have a strong fishy smell, which is natural and indicates real fish content, as highlighted by the 1‑gallon organic fish emulsion. Some products, like the Alaska Fish Emulsion, are deodorized with wintergreen to reduce odor, while powder forms such as the 12‑2‑2 blend also emit less smell. If indoor use is planned, a low‑odor option may be preferable.

For a few houseplants or a small balcony garden, a 8‑oz or 250 mL bottle (e.g., the 8 oz Fish Emulsion) provides enough feed without waste. Larger outdoor beds benefit from gallon‑size containers like the 1‑gallon Alaska or Liquinox, or even the powder that can cover up to 300 gallons per pound. Match the container volume to the area you plan to treat to avoid excess leftover product.

Micronutrients such as iron, manganese, and zinc are included in Liquinox 5‑1‑1 fertilizer, supporting chlorophyll formation and overall plant vigor. Some formulations, like the Heirloom Roses Founder’s Fish Fertilizer, emphasize a complete nutrient profile without specifying micronutrients, but still provide a balanced base. If your soil test shows micronutrient deficiencies, choose a product that lists those elements explicitly.

Yes, most fish emulsions are safe for edible crops and ornamental species; products like the 1‑gallon Organic Fish Emulsion and the 12‑2‑2 powder are labeled for vegetables, flowers, shrubs, and trees. Look for “non‑burning” or “safe for vegetables” claims, as found on the Alaska and Liquinox brands, to ensure they won’t damage tender foliage. Always follow dilution instructions to avoid over‑feeding.

General guidelines suggest 1‑2 tablespoons of 5‑1‑1 liquid per gallon of water for most garden plants, while trees may need 4 tablespoons per gallon, as noted on Fertilome labels. For higher‑phosphorus blends like 12‑2‑2 powder, mix 1 lb per 100 gallons of water and adjust based on plant maturity. Start with the weakest recommended concentration and increase if plants respond positively.

Beyond nutrient content, look for features such as deodorization (Alaska Fish Emulsion), added micronutrients (Liquinox), or versatile application methods like soil drench and foliar spray (Organic Fish Emulsion). Some products also highlight sustainable sourcing and cold‑pressed processing, which can preserve more natural amino acids. These extra benefits can justify a higher price if they align with your gardening priorities.