Comparison: Best Fish Emulsion For Seedlings (Updated | Dec 1st)
If you’re growing seedlings, you know they need a gentle yet powerful start—and fish emulsion could be your secret weapon. But with so many options out there, how do you know which one’s truly the best? We’ve dug into the smelly details, tested top contenders, and compared nutrients, sourcing, and real garden results. Whether you’re nurturing tomatoes, greens, or flowers, the right fish emulsion can make all the difference.
1 Gallon Organic Fish Emulsion Fertilizer for Plants – Ideal Liquid Fish Fertilizer for Plants
Sustainable Organic Boost
- Best for wintergreen deodorized: Alaska Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 Concentrate 1 Gallon (Packaging may vary)
- Best for vigorous green growth: Fertilome (10612) Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 (32 oz)
- Best for sustainable organic boost: 1 Gallon Organic Fish Emulsion Fertilizer for Plants – Ideal Liquid Fish Fertilizer for Plants
- Best for salmon nutrient pack: Fish Emulsion Fertilizer
- Best for low-odor powder: Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 12-2-2 Powder (3.3 pounds Powder-Up to 300 Gallons of Water)
- Best for all-purpose liquid: Fish Emulsion 16OZ CONC
- Best for omri certified: Safergro Aqua Power Certified Organic Fish Emulsion Concentrate
- Best for seedling root vitalizer: FoxFarm Bush Doctor Wholly Mackerel Fish Fertilizer
- Best for odorless growth boost: Fish Hydrolysate Fertilizer for Vegetables & Plants – NPK 2-3-2 Fish Emulsion for Lawn
- Best for micronutrient rich: Liquinox 7128 Fish Emulsion 5-1-1 Fertilizer
Product Comparison: Best Fish Emulsion For Seedlings
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 (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.
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
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
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
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
FoxFarm Bush Doctor Wholly Mackerel Fish Fertilizer, Fx14113 – Liquid Plant Nutrient for Seedlings, Transplants, and Vegetative Growth – NPK 3-1-0 (Pint)
- SEEDLING & TRANSPLANT VITALIZER: This fish plant food promotes root strength, making it perfect for nurturing young seedlings & transplanted plants. Its fast-acting formula ensures plants receive rapid nutrition, helping them establish robust foliage
- EFFECTIVE ROOT DRENCH APPLICATION: This fish fertilizer for plants is for root drench applications, allowing nutrient absorption through the roots. It ensures deeper nutrient penetration, enhancing plant resilience, during early growth stages
- ESSENTIAL GROWTH INGREDIENTS: Made with fish protein hydrolysate, molasses, and kelp, this fish emulsion fertilizer provides a mix of nutrients. Fish protein provides essential amino acids, molasses gives soil microbes, and kelp supports plane health
- EASY MIX FOR THRIVING PLANTS: Using fish plant fertilizer is a breeze, simply mix 1 tablespoon per gallon of fresh water and drench the soil thoroughly. For optimal results, apply every other week throughout the vegetative cycle until early fruiting
- TRUSTED FOXFARM QUALITY: From a brand known for sustainable and effective gardening solutions, Our fish hydrolysate fertilizer is a high-quality option for feeding your plants. Trust FoxFarm for products that support lively gardens and vibrant plants
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
Liquinox 7128 Fish Emulsion 5-1-1 Fertilizer, 1-Gallon
- All purpose liquid fish fertilizer: Use on flowers, lawns, shrubs, trees, and other outdoor plants
- Primary nutrients source: Derived from seagoing fish
- Active ingredients: Includes iron, manganese, and zinc
- Fish emulsion 5-1-1: Suitable for soil or foliar application
- Safe and nonburning: Ideal for use on vegetables, flowers, shrubs, lawns, and trees
- Versatile application: Can be used on potted and house plants, fruits, vegetables, ornamentals, and shade trees
- Application rate: Recommended usage is 2 tablespoons per gallon monthly during the growing and blooming season
- Product type: Liquid fertilizer
- Package size: Available in a 1-gallon container
- Manufacturer: Liquinox
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
Which NPK ratio is most suitable for seedling growth?
Seedlings benefit from a lower nitrogen level with a balanced phosphorus and potassium, such as a 2-3-1 or 2-3-2 ratio, which promotes root development without causing excessive foliage. The 1‑gallon organic fish emulsion (2‑3‑1) and the Fish Hydrolysate (2‑3‑2) both fit this profile, making them strong choices for young plants.
How important is odor when selecting a fish emulsion for indoor seedling use?
A strong fishy smell can be off‑putting in indoor environments, so many gardeners prefer deodorized or low‑odor formulas. Alaska Fish Emulsion advertises a wintergreen deodorizer, while the powder form from the 12‑2‑2 product eliminates odor entirely, offering a cleaner indoor experience.
What are the advantages of a liquid concentrate versus a powdered fish emulsion?
Liquid concentrates, like the Alaska or Safergro Aqua Power, are ready to dilute and apply quickly, which is convenient for frequent seedling feedings. Powdered options, such as the 12‑2‑2 fish protein powder, have reduced odor, longer shelf life, and can be mixed into large volumes of water for extensive garden beds.
Do any of these fish emulsions contain additional micronutrients or vitamins?
Yes, Safergro Aqua Power is OMRI‑certified and lists 20 amino acids, 13 vitamins, and 8 minerals, providing a comprehensive nutrient boost. FoxFarm Bush Doctor also includes kelp and molasses, which supply micronutrients and support beneficial soil microbes.
How do the recommended dilution rates differ for seedlings compared to mature plants?
For seedlings, most manufacturers suggest a weaker solution—typically 1‑2 tablespoons per gallon of water—to avoid nutrient burn. Products like Fertilome and FoxFarm advise the same low‑strength mix for young plants, while higher rates (4 tablespoons per gallon) are reserved for trees and established crops.
Which product offers the best value for a small indoor seedling setup?
The 1‑gallon organic fish emulsion (2‑3‑1) provides a modest price per ounce and a seedling‑friendly NPK ratio, making it cost‑effective for limited indoor use. Its dual capability as a soil drench and foliar spray adds versatility without needing additional products.
Is there a certified organic option that still delivers strong results for seedlings?
Safergro Aqua Power is OMRI‑certified organic and delivers a 5‑1‑1 ratio, which is slightly higher in nitrogen but balanced with amino acids and vitamins for vigorous early growth. Combined with its low‑odor formula, it meets organic standards while supporting healthy seedling development.