Comparison: Best Fish Emulsion For Roses (Updated | Dec 1st)
If you’re serious about growing lush, vibrant roses, you already know they crave nutrients—and fish emulsion is a gardener’s secret weapon. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which one truly delivers? We’ve dug into the details, tested the top contenders, and compared ingredients, scent levels, and real results in the garden. Whether you’re organic-focused or just looking for bigger blooms, we’ll help you choose the best fish emulsion that’ll have your roses thriving all season long—naturally and beautifully.
- Best for all-natural boost: Heirloom Roses Founder’s Fish Fertilizer – Plant Food for Plants
- Best for high-yield formula: 1 Gallon Organic Fish Emulsion Fertilizer for Plants – Ideal Liquid Fish Fertilizer for Plants
- Best for wintergreen fresh: Alaska Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 Concentrate 1 Gallon (Packaging may vary)
- Best for salmon strength: Fish Emulsion Fertilizer
- Best for vigorous foliage: Fertilome (10612) Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 (32 oz)
- Best for versatile garden: Fish Emulsion 16OZ CONC
- Best for low-odor powder: Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 12-2-2 Powder (3.3 pounds Powder-Up to 300 Gallons of Water)
- Best for rose-ready formula: Heirloom Roses Founder’s Fish Fertilizer – All Natural Plant Food for Plants
- Best for hydrolysate boost: Fish Hydrolysate Fertilizer for Vegetables & Plants – NPK 2-3-2 Fish Emulsion for Lawn
- Best for certified nutrient mix: Safergro Aqua Power Certified Organic Fish Emulsion Concentrate
Product Comparison: Best Fish Emulsion For Roses
Heirloom Roses Founder’s Fish Fertilizer – Plant Food for Plants, Organic Liquid Emulsion Fertilizer, Garden Fertilizers for Rose Flower and Tomato Outdoor Gardening

- All Natural
- Easy Application
- Won’t Burn Plants
- Long Lasting
- Promotes Robust Plant Health
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!
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
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
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.
Fish Emulsion 16OZ CONC

- Total Nitrogen – 5% Available Phosphate – 1% Soluble Potash – 1%
- For use in Potted and house plants, fruits, vegetables, ornamentals and shade trees: african violets, ferns, tuberous begonias, camellias, azaleas, rhododendrons, acid-tolerant plants, fuchsias, chrysanthemums, orchids, vegetables, shrubs, berries, trees (fruit, shade, deciduous), roses, flowers (annual and perennial), and transplants * See label for complete list
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
Heirloom Roses Founder’s Fish Fertilizer – All Natural Plant Food for Plants, Natural Liquid Emulsion Fertilizer, One Gallon Garden Fertilizers for Rose Flower and Tomato Outdoor Gardening

- Great For All Plant Types
- All Natural
- Easy Application
- Won’t Burn plants
- Plant Fertilizer
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
Safergro Aqua Power Certified Organic Fish Emulsion Concentrate, 1 Quart

- OMRI certified organic liquid product
- Contains 20 amino acids, 13 vitamins and 8 minerals to promote health and growth
- 1 quart concentrate makes 6 to 10 gallons mix depending on application
- Feeds soil, plants and beneficial soil microbes
- To be used at any growth stage
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 for roses?
Roses benefit most from a balanced NPK ratio that emphasizes nitrogen for foliage and moderate phosphorus for bloom development. Look for formulas around 5-1-1 or 2-3-1, which provide enough nitrogen without overwhelming the plant. Additionally, amino acids and micronutrients support root health and disease resistance.
How does the Heirloom Roses Founder’s Fish Fertilizer compare to generic fish emulsions?
Heirloom Roses’ product is marketed as all‑natural, easy to apply, and specifically formulated to avoid plant burn, which can be reassuring for sensitive rose varieties. Generic emulsions often have higher nitrogen levels (5‑1‑1) that work well for many plants but may require more careful dilution. The founder’s blend focuses on gentle, consistent feeding, making it a good choice for beginners.
Is odor a concern when choosing a fish emulsion for my garden?
Traditional liquid fish emulsions can have a strong fishy smell, which some gardeners find off‑putting. Products like the 1‑gallon Organic Fish Emulsion emphasize the authentic scent as a sign of quality, while others such as the Alaska Fish Emulsion are deodorized with natural wintergreen. If odor is a priority, consider a deodorized or powdered option like the 12‑2‑2 Fish Emulsion Powder.
What are the advantages of a powdered fish emulsion versus a liquid one?
Powdered fish emulsion, like the 12‑2‑2 formulation, reduces the typical fishy odor and offers a longer shelf life with easy storage. It is highly concentrated, allowing you to mix large volumes of feeding solution from a small amount of product, which can be cost‑effective for larger rose beds. Liquid emulsions provide immediate use and are often simpler for quick top‑dressing of individual plants.
How often should I apply fish emulsion to my roses?
Because fish emulsions are gentle, they can be applied every 2‑3 weeks during the active growing season without risking burn. Follow label directions for dilution—typically 1‑2 tbsp per gallon of water for roses—to ensure even coverage. Reduce frequency in cooler months when growth naturally slows.
Is a higher nitrogen ratio always better for rose growth?
While nitrogen promotes lush foliage, excessive nitrogen can lead to weak stems and fewer blooms. A moderate nitrogen level (around 5 % in a 5‑1‑1 blend) supports healthy leaf development without sacrificing flower production. Balancing nitrogen with phosphorus and potassium ensures robust bloom formation and overall plant vigor.
What value‑added features should I consider when selecting a fish emulsion?
Look for certifications such as OMRI organic status, which guarantees the product meets organic gardening standards. Additional benefits like added amino acids, vitamins, and beneficial microbes can enhance soil biology and improve nutrient uptake. Products that include clear application instructions and are packaged for easy dilution add convenience and reduce the chance of over‑application.
