Comparison: Best Fish Emulsion For Plants (Updated | Nov 30th)
If your garden’s looking a little under the weather, the fix might just come from the sea. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which one’s truly the best for your tomatoes, roses, or leafy greens?
- Best for vitamin‑rich boost: CENTRAL GARDEN BRANDS 100099247 Fish Emul Fertilizer
- Best for salmon‑powered growth: Fish Emulsion Fertilizer
- Best for wintergreen deodorized: Alaska Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 Concentrate 1 Gallon (Packaging may vary)
- Best for omri‑certified garden: Alaska Fish Fertilizer OMRI Listed 5-1-1
- Best for cold‑pressed nutrients: 1 Gallon Organic Fish Emulsion Fertilizer for Plants – Ideal Liquid Fish Fertilizer for Plants
- Best for deep‑green foliage: Fertilome (10612) Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 (32 oz)
- Best for compact 5‑1‑1: Fertilome (10611) Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 (16 oz)
- Best for low‑odor powder: Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 12-2-2 Powder (3.3 pounds Powder-Up to 300 Gallons of Water)
- 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 omega‑rich salmon: Bloom City Organic Wild Fish Fertilizer and Plant Supplement
Product Comparison: Best Fish Emulsion For Plants
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
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
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
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!
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.
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
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.
Bloom City Organic Wild Fish Fertilizer and Plant Supplement, Great for Roots and Soil, Made from Sustainable Salmon, 1/2 Pint (8 oz)
- FROM SUSTAINABLE ALASKAN SALMON: Great for Soil and Plants, for indoor and outdoor use.
- CONTAINS SALMON EMULSION AND SALMON OIL: Very high in omega 3 Fatty Acids for Plants. More Amino Acids than any other brand.
- SMELLS LIKE FISH: You know this is the good stuff, because is really really smells like ocean and fish.
- HIGHEST QUALITY, MOST POTENT, BEST VALUE, BIGGEST YIELD: Bloom City’s ingredients are better for plants, better for you, and better for the planet. Simply the best choice for the conscientious grower.
- FORMULATED AND MADE IN THE USA: Designed by botanists and plant chemists in Seattle, Washington. Bloom City chooses only the highest quality ingredient sources and manufacturing methods to create the world’s best craft growing nutrient systems.
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 consider when picking a fish emulsion fertilizer?
Look for the NPK ratio, concentration level, and whether the product is OMRI‑listed if you garden organically. Check the form (liquid vs. powder) and the size of the container to match your garden’s scale. Also consider additional ingredients like kelp or salmon oil that can boost micronutrients.
How do liquid fish emulsions compare to powdered fish fertilizers?
Liquid emulsions, such as Central Garden Brands or Alaska Fish Emulsion, are ready‑to‑mix and provide quick nutrient uptake, but they often have a stronger fishy odor. Powdered options like the 12‑2‑2 Fish Emulsion Powder reduce odor and are highly concentrated, allowing you to make large batches of feed with less storage space. Choose liquid for ease of use and powder for odor‑sensitivity and bulk applications.
Which product gives the best value for a large garden or vegetable plot?
The 1‑gallon Alaska Fish Fertilizer (OMRI listed, 5‑1‑1) and the 1‑gallon organic fish emulsion with a 2‑3‑1 NPK ratio both provide a high volume of feed at a lower per‑gallon cost. The 12‑2‑2 powder is also economical because one pound can treat up to 100 gallons of water, making it ideal for extensive plots. Compare the price per usable ounce after dilution to determine the most cost‑effective choice.
Do any of these fish emulsions have reduced odor, and does that matter?
Alaska Fish Emulsion is deodorized with natural wintergreen, which makes it milder than standard emulsions. The 12‑2‑2 powder also minimizes smell because it’s a dry form. If you’re applying fertilizer near living spaces or indoor plants, choosing a low‑odor product can improve comfort without sacrificing nutrient quality.
Why does the NPK ratio matter, and what’s the difference between 5‑1‑1 and 12‑2‑2?
The NPK ratio indicates the balance of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, guiding how the fertilizer supports foliage, root, and fruit development. A 5‑1‑1 ratio is a classic balanced blend for general growth, while 12‑2‑2 provides a higher nitrogen boost for vigorous leaf growth, making it better for leafy vegetables or rapid greening. Match the ratio to the growth stage of your plants for optimal results.
Is an OMRI listing important for my garden?
Yes, an OMRI (Organic Materials Review Institute) listing confirms the product meets organic certification standards, which is essential for certified organic farms or gardeners who avoid synthetic inputs. Products like Alaska Fish Fertilizer (115 oz) and GS Plant Foods Liquid Fish & Kelp carry this certification, giving you confidence in their organic integrity.
How do concentration and dilution rates affect cost and application frequency?
Higher‑concentration emulsions, such as the 5‑1‑1 liquids, require less product per gallon of water, extending the life of each bottle and lowering long‑term cost. Powdered fertilizers like the 12‑2‑2 can be mixed to very dilute solutions, making a small amount last for many applications. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended dilution (usually 1‑2 Tbsp per gallon) to avoid over‑feeding and to maximize value.
Which fish emulsion is best for indoor plants versus outdoor gardens?
For indoor use, a low‑odor, smaller‑volume product like the 8 oz Fish Emulsion Fertilizer (Complete Fish Emulsion) or the 1‑quart Central Garden Brands works well because it’s easy to store and apply without strong smells. Outdoor gardeners benefit from larger containers such as the 1‑gallon Alaska Fish Emulsion or the 12‑2‑2 powder, which cover larger areas and can be mixed into soil drench or foliar sprays efficiently.