Comparison: Best Ferti Lome Fish Emulsion Fertilizer (Updated | Dec 1st)

Consider the scale of your planting area: the 16‑oz bottle is ideal for small container gardens or indoor plants, while the 32‑oz and 1‑gallon options are better for larger beds and trees. Larger containers provide a lower cost per ounce, but you’ll need to store the extra product safely. Check the label for recommended mixing rates to ensure you don’t over‑dilute a smaller bottle.

Fertilome’s 5‑1‑1 ratio delivers a balanced blend of nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium that supports vigorous foliage and root development. Competing brands may use different NPK ratios or add extra micronutrients, which can affect flowering or fruiting stages. For general purpose feeding, Fertilome’s consistent formula is reliable and easy to follow.

Traditional liquid fish emulsions, like Fertilome and Alaska’s 5‑1‑1 concentrate, have a noticeable fishy smell that some gardeners find off‑putting. Powdered options, such as the 12‑2‑2 fish protein powder, significantly reduce odor while still delivering the same nutrients. If odor is a concern for indoor use, consider a low‑odor powder or a product that’s deodorized with natural wintergreen.

Several products, including Central Garden Brands’ 1‑quart fish emulsion, Alaska’s OMRI‑listed fertilizer, and GS Plant Foods’ fish & kelp blend, carry organic certifications, ensuring they meet strict standards for natural ingredients. Organic certification can be important for growers who sell certified produce or who prefer environmentally friendly inputs. Non‑certified liquids like Fertilome still use natural fish soluble but lack the official organic label.

When you calculate cost per gallon, the 1‑gallon Fertilome and Alaska 1‑gallon concentrates typically offer the best value, delivering the same nutrient strength as smaller bottles. The 16‑oz and 32‑oz sizes are convenient for beginners but cost more per unit of fertilizer. Powdered formulations may appear pricier upfront but stretch further because a small amount makes many gallons of feed.

Yes, most of these products, including Fertilome and Alaska’s concentrate, are formulated for both indoor and outdoor use. Adjust the dilution rate: 1‑2 tablespoons per gallon of water for foliage plants and 4 tablespoons per gallon for larger trees. Always shake the bottle well before mixing to ensure even distribution of nutrients.

Kelp adds trace minerals, hormones, and natural growth promoters that can improve stress tolerance and root vigor. Products like GS Plant Foods combine fish hydrolysate with seaweed to boost soil microbiology and nutrient uptake. If you’re looking for a more holistic boost, a fish‑and‑kelp blend may outperform a straight fish emulsion.

Because fish emulsions release nutrients quickly, most growers apply them every 2–4 weeks during the active growing season. For high‑demand plants, such as tomatoes or flowering annuals, a bi‑weekly schedule can sustain vigorous growth. Always follow the manufacturer’s mixing instructions and monitor plant response to avoid over‑feeding.