Comparison: Best Fish Emulsion Fertilizer For Vegetables (Updated | Dec 1st)
If you’re growing vegetables and want to give them a natural boost, fish emulsion fertilizer is a go-to choice for many gardeners. But with so many options out there, how do you know which one’s truly the best? We’ve dug into the top contenders—checking ingredients, effectiveness, smell levels, and value—to help you pick the right feed for healthier, tastier veggies. Whether you’re tending tomatoes or nurturing carrots, the right fish emulsion can make all the difference. Let’s break down the best picks so your garden thrives naturally.
- Best for omri certified blend: Alaska Fish Fertilizer OMRI Listed 5-1-1
- Best for vitamin-rich formula: CENTRAL GARDEN BRANDS 100099247 Fish Emul Fertilizer
- Best for yield-boosting emulsion: 1 Gallon Organic Fish Emulsion Fertilizer for Plants – Ideal Liquid Fish Fertilizer for Plants
- Best for salmon nutrient boost: Fish Emulsion Fertilizer
- Best for wintergreen deodorized: Alaska Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 Concentrate 1 Gallon (Packaging may vary)
- Best for vigorous root growth: Fertilome (10611) Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 (16 oz)
- Best for high-npk powder: Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 12-2-2 Powder (3.3 pounds Powder-Up to 300 Gallons of Water)
- Best for odorless protein rich: Neptune’s Harvest Fish Fertilizer 2-4-1
- Best for fish-kelp power: 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 burn-free hydrolysate: Fish Hydrolysate Fertilizer for Vegetables & Plants – NPK 2-3-2 Fish Emulsion for Lawn
Product Comparison: Best Fish Emulsion Fertilizer For Vegetables
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
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!
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 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
Fertilome (10611) Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 (16 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.
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
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
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
Fish Hydrolysate Fertilizer for Vegetables & Plants – NPK 2-3-2 Fish Emulsion for Lawn, Flowers, Fruits & Vegetables in Garden or Farm (16 fl oz)
- Rich in amino acids and nutrients
- Natural and eco-friendly
- Boosts plant growth and vitality
- Works both as soil drench & foliar spray
- helps add organic matter to soil
- Will not burn plants, no bad 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 key nutrients should I look for in a fish emulsion fertilizer for vegetables?
Vegetable growers benefit most from a balanced NPK ratio that emphasizes nitrogen for leaf growth and a modest amount of phosphorus for root and fruit development. Ratios like 2-3-1 or 5-1-1 are common and provide steady nutrition without over-fertilizing. Look for products that also list amino acids, micronutrients, and organic matter, as these support overall plant health.
How does the odor level differ between liquid fish emulsions and powdered fish fertilizers?
Traditional liquid emulsions often have a strong fishy smell, which can be noticeable during mixing and application. Powdered formulas, such as the 12-2-2 fish protein powder, are processed to reduce odor and are easier to store. If indoor use or minimal scent is a priority, a deodorized liquid or powder may be the better choice.
Is a higher concentration product like a 5-1-1 concentrate more cost‑effective than a ready‑to‑use mix?
Concentrated formulas allow you to dilute large volumes of water, stretching the product over many gallons and lowering the per‑application cost. However, they require accurate mixing and may need more careful handling to avoid over‑application. For gardeners who prefer simplicity, a pre‑diluted quart can save time, though it may be slightly pricier per use.
Can I use the same fish emulsion on both indoor houseplants and outdoor vegetable beds?
Most fish emulsions are labeled safe for indoor and outdoor use, but indoor applications benefit from low‑odor or deodorized versions to keep indoor air pleasant. Outdoor beds can tolerate stronger‑smelling products, especially if applied early in the day when wind disperses the scent. Always follow label dilution rates to prevent leaf burn in sensitive indoor plants.
What advantages does a fish‑and‑kelp blend offer compared with pure fish emulsion?
Adding kelp introduces natural plant hormones and additional micronutrients that boost flowering and fruit set, complementing the nitrogen‑rich fish component. This blend can enhance root development and improve stress tolerance. If you want a single product that supports both foliage growth and reproductive stages, a fish‑kelp concentrate is a solid option.
How important is OMRI certification when choosing an organic fish fertilizer?
OMRI certification confirms that the product meets strict organic standards, making it safe for certified organic gardens and complying with resale regulations. While many fish emulsions are inherently organic, certification provides peace of mind and may be required for certain market labels. Choose OMRI‑listed items if you grow certified organic vegetables.
Which product provides the best value for a large vegetable garden?
For extensive plots, a high‑volume concentrate like the 1‑gallon 5‑1‑1 fish emulsion or the 12‑2‑2 powder offers the lowest cost per acre because you can dilute many gallons of water. These options also deliver consistent nutrient levels throughout the season. If odor is a concern, consider the deodorized Alaska concentrate, which still offers bulk savings with reduced scent.
Do fish emulsions help improve soil biology, and how can I tell?
Fish emulsions contain amino acids and organic matter that feed beneficial microbes, enhancing soil structure and nutrient cycling. Look for product claims about stimulating microorganisms or improving soil health, such as the Central Garden Brands formula. Over time, healthier soil will show increased earthworm activity and better water retention.