Comparison: Best Fish Emulsion Houseplants (Updated | Dec 1st)
We’ve dug into the smelly (but effective!) world of fish emulsion fertilizers to find the top picks that deliver lush, thriving plants without the guesswork. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or just starting your indoor jungle, we’ll help you choose the right formula to keep your greens happy and growing strong.
- Best for wintergreen deodorized: Alaska Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 Concentrate 1 Gallon (Packaging may vary)
- Best for deep green boost: Fertilome (10612) Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 (32 oz)
- Best for cold-press sustainable: 1 Gallon Organic Fish Emulsion Fertilizer for Plants – Ideal Liquid Fish Fertilizer for Plants
- Best for salmon nutrient pack: Fish Emulsion Fertilizer
- Best for 5-1-1 classic: Fish Emulsion 16OZ CONC
- Best for odorless powder power: Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 12-2-2 Powder (3.3 pounds Powder-Up to 300 Gallons of Water)
- Best for omri certified organic: Safergro Aqua Power Certified Organic Fish Emulsion Concentrate
- Best for no-odor hydrolysate: Fish Hydrolysate Fertilizer for Vegetables & Plants – NPK 2-3-2 Fish Emulsion for Lawn
- Best for all-purpose liquid: Liquinox 7128 Fish Emulsion 5-1-1 Fertilizer
- Best for large salmon blend: Fish Emulsion Fertilizer
Product Comparison: Best Fish Emulsion Houseplants
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 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
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
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
Fish Emulsion Fertilizer, Complete Fish Emulsion Plant Food, 32 oz (1 Quart)
- Complete fish fertilizer for thriving plants
- Helps growth with natural harvest salmon nutrients
- Easy-to-follow care instructions included
- Made in the USA
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 NPK ratio should I choose for houseplants?
For indoor foliage, a lower nitrogen ratio such as 2-3-1 or 2-3-2 works well because it promotes steady growth without causing excessive leaf burn. Products like the 1‑gallon organic fish emulsion (2-3-1) and the fish hydrolysate (2-3-2) are formulated for frequent, light applications. Higher ratios like 5-1-1 are better for rapid greening but can be too strong for delicate houseplants if over‑applied.
How does liquid fish emulsion compare to powdered fish fertilizer?
Liquid emulsions, like Alaska Fish Emulsion or Safergro Aqua Power, are ready‑to‑mix and provide quick nutrient uptake, making them convenient for regular watering schedules. Powdered options, such as the 12‑2‑2 fish protein powder, have a reduced odor and can be diluted to make large volumes of feed, which is useful for bigger indoor setups or hydroponics. However, powders require an extra mixing step and may need more precise measuring.
Is odor a concern when using fish emulsion indoors?
Yes, traditional fish emulsions can have a strong fishy smell, which some indoor gardeners find unpleasant. Products like Alaska Fish Emulsion are deodorized with natural wintergreen, while the 12‑2‑2 powder advertises a reduced odor due to its dry form. If scent is a priority, consider the deodorized liquid or the powder to keep your home smelling fresh.
Do I need to dilute fish emulsion before applying it to houseplants?
All the listed fish emulsions are concentrated and must be diluted with water before use. Typical dilution rates are 1‑2 tablespoons per gallon of water for foliage plants, and up to 4 tablespoons per gallon for larger trees, as shown on the Fertilome label. Following the recommended ratios prevents leaf burn and ensures nutrients are absorbed evenly.
Which fish emulsion offers the best value per gallon?
Value can be measured by nutrient concentration, price, and versatility. The Alaska Fish Emulsion provides a 5‑1‑1 ratio in a 1‑gallon container and is deodorized, offering a balance of performance and convenience. The 12‑2‑2 powder, while sold in a 3.3‑pound bag, can make up to 100 gallons of feed, giving a lower cost per application for large indoor gardens.
Can I use fish emulsion on both foliage and root zones?
Yes, most fish emulsions are safe for both soil drenching and foliar feeding. The organic fish emulsion (2‑3‑1) highlights its use as a soil drench to improve fertility and as a foliar spray for quick nutrient uptake. Applying to the root zone builds long‑term soil health, while occasional foliar sprays boost leaf color and growth.
What additional nutrients do fish emulsions provide beyond NPK?
Fish emulsions naturally contain amino acids, trace minerals, and vitamins that support overall plant vigor. Safergro Aqua Power lists 20 amino acids, 13 vitamins, and 8 minerals, while the organic liquid fish emulsion mentions beneficial microbes and micronutrients. These extras help improve stress resistance and promote healthier root systems.
Are there any certifications I should look for when buying organic fish fertilizer?
Certification can assure you of organic integrity and safety for indoor use. Safergro Aqua Power is OMRI‑certified, meaning it meets strict organic standards, and many of the listed products are marketed as “organic” or “eco‑friendly.” Choosing a certified product can give confidence that no synthetic chemicals are present.