Comparison: Best Fish Emulsion Liquid Fertilizer (Updated | Dec 1st)
If your garden’s looking a little under the weather, it might just be craving some good old-fashioned fish power. Fish emulsion liquid fertilizers have been a gardener’s secret weapon for years—rich in nutrients, fast-acting, and perfect for everything from veggies to flowers. But with so many options on the shelf, how do you know which one’s truly the best? We’ve dug into the bottles, compared ingredients, and tested results to bring you the top contenders that deliver real growth without the guesswork. Let’s find your garden’s next favorite meal.
- Best for vitamin‑rich boost: CENTRAL GARDEN BRANDS 100099247 Fish Emul Fertilizer
- Best for cold‑pressed power: 1 Gallon Organic Fish Emulsion Fertilizer for Plants – Ideal Liquid Fish Fertilizer for Plants
- Best for omri‑certified: Alaska Fish Fertilizer OMRI Listed 5-1-1
- Best for wintergreen deodorized: Alaska Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 Concentrate 1 Gallon (Packaging may vary)
- Best for salmon‑based complete: Fish Emulsion Fertilizer
- Best for fish‑kelp fusion: GS Plant Foods Liquid Fish & Kelp Fertilizer (1 Gallon) – Organic Material Review Institute Listed Natural Plant Food for Home Gardens
- Best for deep green growth: Fertilome (10612) Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 (32 oz)
- Best for fast‑acting foliar: Down To Earth All Natural Fertilizers Organic Liquid Fish & Kelp Concentrate – Plant Food for Vegetable Gardens and Flower Beds – Makes up to 32 Gallons 2-4-1
- Best for balanced 2‑3‑1: GS Plant Foods Liquid Fish Fertilizer – Organic Material Review Institute Listed (1 Gallon) – Natural Hydrolyzed Fish Fertilizer for Gardens
- Best for odor‑free powder: Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 12-2-2 Powder (3.3 pounds Powder-Up to 300 Gallons of Water)
Product Comparison: Best Fish Emulsion Liquid Fertilizer
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
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!
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
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
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
GS Plant Foods Liquid Fish & Kelp Fertilizer (1 Gallon) – Organic Material Review Institute Listed Natural Plant Food for Home Gardens, Lawns, and Vegetables
- ORGANIC MATERIALS REVIEW INSTITUTE LISTED FOR TRUSTED GARDEN CARE Certified by OMRI for use in organic growing, GS Plant Foods Liquid Fish & Kelp Fertilizer delivers reliable, natural nutrition for vegetables, lawns, flowers, and shrubs.
- SEA-AND-SOIL BASED NUTRITION Made from North Atlantic seaweed (Ascophyllum nodosum) and fresh fish hydrolysate, this liquid concentrate provides essential nutrients and trace minerals that help support healthy soil and plant development.
- IMPROVES SOIL MICROBIOLOGY & NUTRIENT UPTAKE Supports a thriving soil ecosystem that promotes strong root systems and efficient nutrient absorption — the foundation for resilient, productive plants.
- EASY-TO-USE CONCENTRATE FOR ALL PLANTS Mix 2 oz per gallon of water and apply as a foliar spray or soil drench every 2–4 weeks. Safe for use on vegetables, fruits, ornamentals, turf, and houseplants.
- MADE IN THE USA – SUSTAINABLY PRODUCED Proudly produced by GS Plant Foods as a licensed fertilizer manufacturer. No synthetic chemicals, additives, or fillers — just natural ingredients formulated for healthy home gardens and hobby farms.
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.
Down To Earth All Natural Fertilizers Organic Liquid Fish & Kelp Concentrate – Plant Food for Vegetable Gardens and Flower Beds – Makes up to 32 Gallons 2-4-1, 32 oz
- Fast‑acting liquid formula: Perfect for foliar feed or soil drench applications, supporting quick absorption and growth stimulation.
- Stimulates overall plant vigor: High phosphorus aids flowering and fruiting, while nitrogen supports lush foliage and root development.
- Organic & soil‑friendly: Helps promote beneficial microbial activity and sustainable soil health due to its fish and kelp base
- Versatile application rates: For general garden use: ¼–½ cup per gallon of water; for containers: 2–4 Tbsp per gallon; for houseplants: 2 Tbsp per gallon, repeated every 2–4 weeks depending on growth stage
- Watch out for odor: While extremely effective, many users report a strong fish-like odor characteristic of fish emulsions—though it typically subsides quickly and doesn’t linger long indoors
GS Plant Foods Liquid Fish Fertilizer – Organic Material Review Institute Listed (1 Gallon) – Natural Hydrolyzed Fish Fertilizer for Gardens, Lawns & Container Growing
- Organic Materials Review Institute Listed for Organic Production Approved as GS Plant Foods Organic Liquid Fish Concentrate 2-3-1. Suitable for organic growing under OMRI and NOP standards.
- Balanced Nutrient Formula (2-3-1) Provides primary nutrients from hydrolyzed fish for sustained plant nutrition and soil health.
- Versatile Garden Use: Ideal for vegetables, lawns, flowers, shrubs, trees, fruit, and container plants when used as directed.
- Simple Application: Mix 4 oz per gallon of water for most uses. Apply generously to soil or as a foliar feed until leaves are wet.
- Florida Licensed Manufacturer: Produced by GS Plant Foods, LLC (License F003717). 1 Gallon liquid fertilizer (8.9 lb).
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
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 key factors should I look at when choosing a fish emulsion fertilizer?
First, check the NPK ratio to match the growth stage of your plants; a 2-3-1 or 5-1-1 ratio works well for general feeding, while a higher nitrogen blend supports leafy growth. Next, consider certification such as OMRI listing if you garden organically, and look for added ingredients like kelp that boost micronutrients. Finally, compare container size and price per ounce to gauge overall value, and note any odor‑reduction features if you plan to use it indoors.
How do the NPK ratios vary among the products and why does that matter?
The Alaska Fish Emulsion (5-1-1) and Fertilome (5-1-1) provide a balanced nitrogen boost for vigorous foliage, while the GS Plant Foods and the 1‑gallon Organic Fish Emulsion (2-3-1) favor a slightly lower nitrogen level that encourages steady, long‑term growth and better fruiting. A higher nitrogen ratio is ideal for leafy vegetables and houseplants, whereas a lower ratio with more phosphorus supports blooming and root development. Choosing the right ratio helps you avoid over‑fertilizing and improves plant health.
Which product gives the best value for a large garden?
The 1‑gallon Organic Fish Emulsion (2-3-1) and the Alaska Fish Emulsion 5-1-1 Concentrate (1 gallon) both offer large volumes at a lower cost per gallon, making them economical for extensive beds. The GS Plant Foods Liquid Fish & Kelp (1 gallon) adds kelp for extra micronutrients, which can be worth the slight premium if you need a more comprehensive feed. Compare the price per ounce and the recommended application rate to calculate total coverage.
Are there any low‑odor or deodorized fish emulsions available?
Yes, the Alaska Fish Emulsion Concentrate (1 gallon) is deodorized with natural wintergreen, reducing the typical fishy smell. The Down To Earth Organic Liquid Fish & Kelp also mentions a strong odor that fades quickly, but it is not specifically deodorized. If odor is a major concern for indoor use, the wintergreen‑treated Alaska product is the most suitable choice.
Why is OMRI certification important when selecting a fish fertilizer?
OMRI listing confirms that the product meets organic standards set by the USDA, allowing you to use it in certified organic gardens without risking compliance issues. Several items, such as Alaska Fish Fertilizer (5-1-1) and GS Plant Foods Liquid Fish & Kelp, carry this certification, giving you confidence in their organic integrity. If you follow organic gardening practices, choosing an OMRI‑listed fertilizer ensures you stay within those guidelines.
Can these fish emulsions be used on both indoor houseplants and outdoor gardens?
All of the listed products are marketed for indoor and outdoor use, including the Central Garden Brands 1‑quart and the Fertilome 5‑1‑1 blend. However, indoor applications benefit from low‑odor formulas like the deodorized Alaska concentrate to avoid lingering smells. Outdoor use allows for higher application rates and soil drenching, which many of the larger‑volume products support.
What are the pros and cons of liquid versus powder fish fertilizers?
Liquid emulsions, such as the 1‑gallon Organic Fish Emulsion, provide quick absorption and are easy to mix for foliar sprays or soil drenches, but they often retain a strong fish odor. Powder forms like the 12‑2‑2 Fish Emulsion Powder eliminate most odor and are highly concentrated, making them cost‑effective for large areas, though they require thorough mixing and may need more storage space. Choose liquid for convenience and immediate results, or powder for odor control and long‑term storage.
How do application rates differ across the brands, and what should I keep in mind?
Most 5‑1‑1 products recommend 1‑2 Tbsp per gallon of water for general garden use, while the 2‑3‑1 liquids suggest 2‑4 Tbsp per gallon for a milder feed. The GS Plant Foods and Down To Earth formulas advise ¼–½ cup per gallon for vigorous growth, and the powder version calls for 1 lb to make up to 100 gal of solution. Always start with the lowest recommended rate and observe plant response before increasing dosage.