Comparison: Best Fish Emulsion Fertilizer For Corn (Updated | Dec 1st)

Corn thrives on a higher nitrogen level for strong stalk development, so a fish emulsion with a ratio around 5-1-1 or 2-4-1 works well. Products like the Central Garden Brands 5-1-1 (1 Quart) and Fertilome 5-1-1 (16 oz) provide that balanced blend. If you prefer a slightly lower nitrogen mix, Neptune’s Harvest 2-4-1 still supplies enough nitrogen while boosting phosphorus for root growth.

Fish emulsions release nutrients slowly, improving soil biology and reducing the risk of nitrogen burn, which can lead to more consistent corn growth. Synthetic fertilizers give a quick nitrogen spike but may leach away, especially in heavy rain. Many growers find that using a fish emulsion like the Alaska 5-1-1 Concentrate (1 Gallon) alongside a modest synthetic boost yields the best of both worlds.

The Alaska Fish Emulsion 5-1-1 Concentrate (1 Gallon) offers a low cost per ounce and can be diluted to cover many acres, making it the most economical choice. The 1‑Gallon Organic Fish Emulsion (2‑3‑1 NPK) also provides good value but is slightly pricier per nutrient. For the cheapest per‑nutrient price, the bulk powder from Fish Emulsion 12-2-2 (3.3 lb) can stretch to 100 gallons of feed.

Traditional liquid emulsions can be quite fishy, especially the 1‑Gallon Organic Fish Emulsion which advertises a strong scent. Products like the Alaska 5-1-1 Concentrate are deodorized with natural wintergreen, reducing the smell. If odor is a major issue, the dry 12‑2‑2 powder form is virtually odorless and easier to store.

Most liquid fish emulsions recommend a 1‑2 tablespoon per gallon of water for vegetable crops; for corn, a 2‑3 tablespoon per gallon mix ensures enough nitrogen during the vegetative stage. The Alaska 5‑1‑1 Concentrate follows the same guideline, while the powder 12‑2‑2 can be mixed at 1 lb per 100 gallons, then further diluted as needed. Always start with a weaker solution and increase as the plants mature.

Yes, OMRI‑listed products meet the standards for organic farming. Both the Alaska Fish Fertilizer OMRI Listed 5‑1‑1 (115 oz) and GS Plant Foods Liquid Fish & Kelp Fertilizer carry OMRI certification, making them eligible for use on organic corn. Using these ensures compliance with organic certification agencies while still providing the benefits of fish‑based nutrition.

Powdered fish emulsion, like the 12‑2‑2 (3.3 lb), is highly concentrated and can be mixed to create large volumes of feed, reducing shipping weight and storage space. Liquid concentrates such as the Alaska 5‑1‑1 (1 Gallon) are ready‑to‑dilute but require more frequent refills. For extensive corn fields, the powder often proves more cost‑effective and easier to handle with bulk sprayers.

Beyond nitrogen, fish emulsions contain amino acids, trace minerals, and natural growth hormones that support root development and stress resistance. Products like Neptune’s Harvest retain fish oils and proteins, delivering micronutrients such as calcium, magnesium, and iron. These additional elements improve soil biology, helping corn plants absorb nutrients more efficiently and potentially increasing yield.