Comparison: Best Fish Emulsion For Tomato Plants (Updated | Dec 1st)
But with so many fish emulsions on the market, how do you pick the best one? We’ve dug into the smelly details—because yes, they all stink a little—to find which formulas truly boost growth, flavor, and yield. Whether you’re a backyard gardener or a tomato fanatic, this comparison cuts through the hype to show you the top fish emulsions worth every drop.
- Best for cold-pressed boost: 1 Gallon Organic Fish Emulsion Fertilizer for Plants – Ideal Liquid Fish Fertilizer for Plants
- Best for compact usa formula: Fish Emulsion Fertilizer
- Best for omri certified blend: Alaska Fish Fertilizer OMRI Listed 5-1-1
- Best for vigorous root builder: Fertilome (10612) Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 (32 oz)
- Best for vitamin-rich formula: CENTRAL GARDEN BRANDS 100099247 Fish Emul Fertilizer
- Best for wintergreen odor-free: Alaska Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 Concentrate 1 Gallon (Packaging may vary)
- Best for trace mineral power: Harris Organic Plant and Lawn Fertilizer
- Best for odorless powder concentrate: Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 12-2-2 Powder (3.3 pounds Powder-Up to 300 Gallons of Water)
- Best for broad-range concentrate: Fish Emulsion 16OZ CONC
- Best for odorless cold-process: Neptune’s Harvest Fish Fertilizer 2-4-1
Product Comparison: Best Fish Emulsion For Tomato Plants
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
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
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.
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
Harris Organic Plant and Lawn Fertilizer, Hydrolyzed Liquid Fish Fertilizer Emulsion Great for Tomatoes and Vegetables, 3-3-0.3, 32oz (32oz (Quart))
- Uses trace minerals and micronutrients naturally derived from fish
- Promotes vigorous growth of plants and vegetables
- Great for all indoor and outdoor plants
- For use in an Organic Gardening program
- Won’t burn plants
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
Fish Emulsion 16OZ CONC
- Total Nitrogen – 5% Available Phosphate – 1% Soluble Potash – 1%
- For use in Potted and house plants, fruits, vegetables, ornamentals and shade trees: african violets, ferns, tuberous begonias, camellias, azaleas, rhododendrons, acid-tolerant plants, fuchsias, chrysanthemums, orchids, vegetables, shrubs, berries, trees (fruit, shade, deciduous), roses, flowers (annual and perennial), and transplants * See label for complete list
Neptune’s Harvest Fish Fertilizer 2-4-1, 36 Ounce
- Neptune’s Harvest is an organic fertilizer made from fresh north Atlantic fish
- It is made by a unique cold process that protects the vitamins, amino acids, enzymes and growth hormones
- It also contains all the micro and macro nutrients naturally found in fish
- Unlike fish emulsions, Neptune’s Harvest retains the fish proteins and oils and has no unpleasant odor
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 for tomato plants?
Tomatoes benefit most from a balanced nitrogen to phosphorus to potassium ratio of around 2-3-1, which encourages strong foliage without excessive leaf growth. Several products, such as the 1‑gallon Organic Fish Emulsion (2‑3‑1) and the Neptune’s Harvest 2‑4‑1, fall within this range. Choose the ratio that matches your soil test results and growth stage for optimal fruit set.
How does the odor of a fish emulsion affect its suitability for indoor tomato growing?
Strong fishy smells can be off‑putting in indoor or greenhouse settings, but they also indicate a true fish‑based product. The 1‑gallon Organic Fish Emulsion advertises a pungent aroma, while Alaska Fish Emulsion (deodorized with natural wintergreen) and Neptune’s Harvest claim reduced odor. If you grow tomatoes indoors, a low‑odor option may improve comfort without sacrificing nutrient quality.
Is a liquid fish emulsion better than a powder for large tomato gardens?
Liquid emulsions are easy to apply as a soil drench or foliar spray and mix quickly, making them convenient for smaller plots or container tomatoes. Powdered forms, like the 12‑2‑2 Fish Emulsion Powder, are highly concentrated and can be mixed to feed hundreds of gallons, which is cost‑effective for larger beds. Consider your garden size and storage preferences when choosing between liquid and powder.
Which fish emulsion offers the best value per ounce for tomato production?
Value can be measured by nutrient content, concentration, and price. The Alaska Fish Fertilizer 5‑1‑1 (1 gallon) provides a high nitrogen level at a low cost per gallon, while the 1‑gallon Organic Fish Emulsion includes a premium cold‑pressed process that may cost more but offers a richer nutrient profile. Compare the price per ounce and the recommended application rates to determine total cost per harvest.
Do I need an OMRI‑listed fish emulsion for certified organic tomato farming?
Yes, if you are selling your tomatoes as organic or following an organic certification program, the fertilizer must be OMRI‑listed. The Alaska Fish Fertilizer (5‑1‑1) and Fertilome Fish Emulsion both carry OMRI certification, ensuring compliance. Products without the listing, such as some generic fish emulsions, may still be natural but could jeopardize organic certification.
How often should I apply fish emulsion to tomato plants during the growing season?
Fish emulsions are typically applied every 2‑3 weeks as a light feeding to maintain steady nutrient availability. For liquid products, a common rate is 1‑2 tablespoons per gallon of water for tomatoes, while powder forms are mixed according to label instructions, often 1 lb per 100 gal. Adjust frequency based on plant vigor and soil test feedback.
Can fish emulsion be combined with other fertilizers for tomato plants?
Yes, fish emulsion can be used alongside other organic amendments like compost or bone meal to provide a broader nutrient spectrum. Because fish emulsion is high in nitrogen, pairing it with a phosphorus‑rich source can balance the NPK ratio for fruit development. Always monitor total nutrient input to avoid over‑fertilizing, which can lead to leaf‑only growth.
What extra benefits do fish emulsions provide beyond basic nutrients for tomatoes?
Fish emulsions contain micronutrients, amino acids, and growth hormones that improve root development and stress tolerance. They also stimulate beneficial soil microorganisms, enhancing nutrient uptake and disease resistance. Products that emphasize cold‑pressed processing, like the 1‑gallon Organic Fish Emulsion, tend to retain more of these organic compounds.