Comparison: Best Fish Emulsion For Herbs (Updated | Dec 1st)
If you’re growing herbs, you know they thrive on care and the right nutrients—but have you tried fish emulsion? This natural powerhouse feeds your basil, thyme, and rosemary without harsh chemicals. With so many options on the shelf, though, how do you pick the best one? We’ve tested top fish emulsions to find which delivers lush growth, vibrant flavor, and healthy roots—without the stink. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, let’s dive into the bottles that truly make your herbs flourish.
1 Gallon Organic Fish Emulsion Fertilizer for Plants – Ideal Liquid Fish Fertilizer for Plants
Cold-Pressed Whole Fish
- Best for wintergreen deodorized: Alaska Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 Concentrate 1 Gallon (Packaging may vary)
- Best for cold-pressed whole fish: 1 Gallon Organic Fish Emulsion Fertilizer for Plants – Ideal Liquid Fish Fertilizer for Plants
- Best for salmon nutrient blend: Fish Emulsion Fertilizer
- Best for low-odor powder: Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 12-2-2 Powder (3.3 pounds Powder-Up to 300 Gallons of Water)
- Best for deep foliage formula: Fertilome (10612) Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 (32 oz)
- Best for compact green boost: Fertilome (10611) Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 (16 oz)
- Best for fish manure fusion: FOOP Garden – Organic Liquid Plant Food Made from Fish Manure (with Fresh Minty Scent) | Fish Fertilizer Alternative Perfect for Veggies
- Best for mineral-rich liquid: Liquinox 7128 Fish Emulsion 5-1-1 Fertilizer
- Best for odorless hydrolysate: Fish Hydrolysate Fertilizer for Vegetables & Plants – NPK 2-3-2 Fish Emulsion for Lawn
- Best for vitamin-packed emulsion: Safergro Aqua Power Certified Organic Fish Emulsion Concentrate
Product Comparison: Best Fish Emulsion For Herbs
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
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!
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
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
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.
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.
FOOP Garden – Organic Liquid Plant Food Made from Fish Manure (with Fresh Minty Scent) | Fish Fertilizer Alternative Perfect for Veggies, Herbs, Flowers,Trees,Shrubs | Kid&Pet Friendly (32oz)
- General-purpose organic plant nutrients perfect for veggies, herbs, flowers, succulents, trees, shrubs and houseplants.
- Provides a broad spectrum of essential organic nutrients including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and silica.
- Made from high-quality organic ingredients such as fish emulsion, kelp, mycorrhizae, and fish manure.
- Grows larger, healthier plants that taste and smell better.
- Approved for organic use by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI)
- Made in the USA, ensuring quality and safety standards are met.
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
Fish Hydrolysate Fertilizer for Vegetables & Plants – NPK 2-3-2 Fish Emulsion for Lawn, Flowers, Fruits & Vegetables in Garden or Farm (16 fl oz)
- Rich in amino acids and nutrients
- Natural and eco-friendly
- Boosts plant growth and vitality
- Works both as soil drench & foliar spray
- helps add organic matter to soil
- Will not burn plants, no bad odor
Safergro Aqua Power Certified Organic Fish Emulsion Concentrate, 1 Quart
- OMRI certified organic liquid product
- Contains 20 amino acids, 13 vitamins and 8 minerals to promote health and growth
- 1 quart concentrate makes 6 to 10 gallons mix depending on application
- Feeds soil, plants and beneficial soil microbes
- To be used at any growth stage
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
Which NPK ratio is most suitable for growing herbs with fish emulsion?
Herbs generally thrive on a balanced, low‑nitrogen formula such as 2‑3‑1 or 3‑2‑1, which encourages leaf growth without excessive vegetative sprawl. Products like the 1‑gallon Organic Fish Emulsion (2‑3‑1) are formulated for frequent, light applications that match herb needs. Higher nitrogen ratios like 5‑1‑1 are better for fast‑growing vegetables but can cause legginess in delicate herbs.
How does a liquid fish emulsion compare to a powdered form for herb gardening?
Liquid emulsions, such as the Alaska Fish Emulsion or Liquinox, are easy to mix and apply directly to soil or as a foliar spray, providing quick nutrient uptake for herbs. Powdered options like the 12‑2‑2 Fish Emulsion Powder offer higher concentration and lower odor, making them ideal for larger batches or indoor growers who want to minimize smell. However, powders require extra mixing steps and precise dilution to avoid over‑feeding.
Is odor a concern when choosing a fish emulsion for indoor herb pots?
Yes, traditional liquid fish emulsions can emit a strong fishy smell, which may be noticeable in indoor settings. Deodorized formulas, like the Alaska Fish Emulsion with natural wintergreen, reduce the scent while still delivering nutrients. Powdered or dry‑blend products also tend to have a milder aroma, making them a good alternative for indoor herb gardens.
What should I look for on the label to ensure the fertilizer is organic and safe for edible herbs?
Check for certifications such as OMRI (Organic Materials Review Institute) or statements that the product is 100% organic and free of synthetic chemicals. Ingredients like fish emulsion, kelp, mycorrhizae, and natural amino acids indicate a wholesome blend suitable for edible plants. Avoid products that list added synthetic micronutrients or chemical preservatives.
How do I determine the best value among the fish emulsion options?
Calculate the cost per usable gallon of diluted fertilizer; concentrate products like Safergro Aqua Power (1 quart making 6‑10 gallons) often provide a lower cost per application. Consider the NPK ratio and whether the product meets your herb’s specific nutrient needs—paying more for a higher‑grade formula may be worthwhile if it reduces the frequency of applications. Also factor in storage convenience and odor reduction, which can affect overall satisfaction.
Can I use the same fish emulsion for both indoor herbs and outdoor vegetable beds?
While many fish emulsions are versatile, indoor herbs benefit from lower nitrogen ratios and reduced odor, making products like the 2‑3‑1 Organic Fish Emulsion ideal. Outdoor vegetable beds often require higher nitrogen, such as the 5‑1‑1 formulas, to support rapid growth. Using a single product is possible, but adjusting dilution rates based on plant type will yield the best results.
What application method yields the most consistent results for herbs?
A soil drench applied every 2‑3 weeks at the recommended dilution (typically 1‑2 tablespoons per gallon of water) ensures steady nutrient release to the root zone. For quick nutrient boosts or to address deficiencies, a light foliar spray can be used once a month, especially during flowering stages. Consistency in timing and dosage is more important than the specific method, as over‑application can lead to nutrient lockout.