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

For general vegetable and flower beds a balanced 5-1-1 ratio provides steady nitrogen for foliage while keeping phosphorus low; the Alaska and Fertilome formulas use this ratio. If you need a stronger nitrogen boost for rapid leaf growth, the 12-2-2 powder from Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 12-2-2 offers a higher nitrogen content. For a slightly higher phosphorus level to support root development, the 2-3-2 hydrolysate provides a modest boost while still being gentle on seedlings.

Liquid emulsions, such as the Alaska Fish Emulsion and the Organic Fish Emulsion with Kelp, are ready to dilute and apply, delivering nutrients quickly and helping improve soil microbial activity. Powders like the 12-2-2 Fish Emulsion Powder have a longer shelf life, lower odor, and are easier to store, but require mixing with water to create a liquid feed. Choose liquid if you prefer convenience and immediate results; choose powder if you want reduced smell and flexibility for large‑scale applications.

Odor can be a concern for indoor growers or close‑quarter gardening; deodorized formulas, such as Alaska Fish Emulsion with natural wintergreen, are designed to minimize the fishy smell. The 12-2-2 powder explicitly reduces odor by removing the liquid component, making it a good choice for indoor use. If you don’t mind the natural scent, the standard organic fish emulsion from the 1‑gallon product will have a stronger fish aroma, which some gardeners associate with potency.

For a balcony or small container garden, a 8‑oz bottle like the Fish Emulsion Fertilizer (250 mL) provides enough product for frequent, low‑volume applications without waste. Larger outdoor beds benefit from gallon‑size containers such as the Alaska Fish Emulsion or the Organic Fish Emulsion with Kelp, which offer better per‑gallon pricing and fewer refills. If you have a very large plot, the 12‑2‑2 powder can stretch up to 100 gallons per pound, delivering the most economical coverage.

The Safergro Aqua Power Certified Organic Fish Emulsion and the Organic Fish Emulsion with Kelp both carry OMRI certification, confirming they meet organic standards for use in certified organic production. Certified organic products assure you that no synthetic chemicals or prohibited additives are present, which is important for growers seeking to maintain organic integrity. Non‑certified options still provide natural nutrients but may not qualify for organic labeling.

The 5‑1‑1 Fertilome formulas recommend 1‑2 tablespoons per gallon of water for foliage plants and 4 tablespoons per gallon for trees, delivering a moderate nitrogen boost. Higher‑NPK products like the 12‑2‑2 powder suggest mixing 1 pound to make up to 100 gallons of feed, resulting in a more concentrated solution that can be applied less frequently. Adjust rates based on plant type and growth stage; seedlings need weaker solutions, while mature fruiting plants can handle stronger mixes.

Larger containers generally lower the cost per ounce; for example, the 1‑gallon Alaska Fish Emulsion provides roughly 128 ounces of product, offering a better price per unit than the 8‑oz bottle. To compare value, divide the price by the total ounces and consider the recommended dilution ratio to estimate how many gallons of feed you’ll get. Remember to factor in storage space and shelf life—powders have a longer shelf life, which can offset a slightly higher per‑ounce cost.

Yes, most liquid fish emulsions, including the Organic Fish Emulsion and the EB Stone Fish Emulsion with Kelp, are safe for both soil drench and foliar spray when properly diluted. The 12‑2‑2 powder, once mixed into a liquid, also works as a foliar feed, offering flexibility for rapid nutrient uptake. Always follow the manufacturer’s dilution instructions to avoid leaf burn and ensure optimal absorption.