Comparison: Best Fish Emulsion Hydroponics (Updated | Dec 1st)
If you’re looking to give your hydroponic garden a natural boost, fish emulsion might just be your secret weapon. But with so many options out there, how do you know which one delivers the best results? Whether you’re growing leafy greens or fruiting veggies, the right formula can make all the difference. Let’s dive into the best fish emulsions for hydroponics and find the perfect fit for your thriving indoor garden.
- Best for burn-free growth: Alaska Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 Concentrate 1 Gallon (Packaging may vary)
- Best for cold-pressed yield: 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 salmon nutrient power: Fish Emulsion Fertilizer
- Best for microbe boost liquid: Just Scentsational Bare Ground Solutions TP-64G Trident’s Pride Organic Liquid Fish Hydroponic Soil Fertilizer
- Best for versatile plant mix: 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 large-scale microbe boost: Just Scentsational Bare Ground Solutions TP-128G Trident’s Pride Organic Liquid Fish Hydroponic Soil Fertilizer
- Best for amino-rich concentrate: Safergro Aqua Power Certified Organic Fish Emulsion Concentrate
- Best for burn-free hydrolysate: Fish Hydrolysate Fertilizer for Vegetables & Plants – NPK 2-3-2 Fish Emulsion for Lawn
Product Comparison: Best Fish Emulsion Hydroponics
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
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.
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
Just Scentsational Bare Ground Solutions TP-64G Trident’s Pride Organic Liquid Fish Hydroponic Soil Fertilizer, 64 oz (2 Quarts)
- Omri-rated, all-natural, Organic fish fertilizer adds proteins and enzymes to soil
- Increases anti-oxidants, sugar, and earthworm population
- Increased microbe production reduces the need for pesticides and creates stronger growth
- Comes in liquid fertilizer or soil conditioning granules for easy application
- Suggested use is 4-6oz per gallon 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
Just Scentsational Bare Ground Solutions TP-128G Trident’s Pride Organic Liquid Fish Hydroponic Soil Fertilizer, 128 oz (1 Gallon)
- Omri-rated, all-natural, Organic fish fertilizer adds proteins and enzymes to soil
- Increases anti-oxidants, sugar, and earthworm population
- Increased microbe production reduces the need for pesticides and creates stronger growth
- Comes in liquid fertilizer or soil conditioning granules for easy application
- Suggested use is 4-6oz per gallon of water.
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
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 ratios should I look for in a fish emulsion for hydroponics?
Hydroponic systems benefit from balanced nutrient ratios; many fish emulsions offer a 5‑1‑1 ratio, while others provide 2‑3‑1 or 12‑2‑2 for higher phosphorus. A lower NPK like 2‑3‑2 works well for fruiting stages, whereas 5‑1‑1 supports vigorous vegetative growth. Choose a ratio that matches the growth phase of your crops for optimal results.
How does odor affect my choice of fish emulsion?
Traditional liquid fish emulsions can have a strong fishy smell, which some growers find off‑putting, especially in indoor or greenhouse settings. Powdered forms, such as the 12‑2‑2 fish protein powder, are designed to reduce odor while remaining highly soluble. If scent is a concern, consider a deodorized concentrate or a dry powder.
Is organic certification important for hydroponic growers?
Organic certification (e.g., OMRI) guarantees that the fertilizer meets strict standards for natural ingredients and minimal synthetic additives, which can be crucial for certified organic hydroponic production. Products like Safergro Aqua Power and Just Scentsational’s Trident’s Pride carry OMRI certification, providing peace of mind for growers pursuing organic labeling. Non‑certified options may still be effective but lack that official organic status.
Should I choose a liquid concentrate or a powder for large‑scale hydroponics?
Liquid concentrates are easy to mix on‑the‑fly and work well for small to medium systems, offering quick nutrient availability. Powders, such as the 12‑2‑2 fish emulsion powder, are more cost‑effective for large volumes because a small amount can make hundreds of gallons of feed and they store longer with less risk of spoilage. Evaluate your system size, storage space, and mixing preferences when deciding.
How do price and value compare across these fish emulsions?
While exact prices aren’t listed, larger containers like 1‑gallon concentrates generally provide a lower cost per gallon than smaller 8‑oz bottles. Powdered formulations may have higher upfront costs but deliver more feed per pound, reducing long‑term expenses. Consider both the concentration and the number of applications per unit to assess true value.
Can I use the same fish emulsion for both soil and hydroponic systems?
Many fish emulsions are versatile and can be applied as soil drenches, foliar sprays, or hydroponic nutrient solutions, but dilution rates may differ. For hydroponics, a more precise, lower‑strength mix is recommended to avoid nutrient imbalances, whereas soil applications can tolerate higher concentrations. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the specific growing medium.
What additional nutrients or benefits do some fish emulsions offer?
Beyond the basic NPK, certain products include amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that support root development and microbial activity, such as Safergro’s 20 amino acids and 13 vitamins. Some formulations also claim to boost beneficial soil microbes, increase antioxidant levels, and improve plant stress resistance. These extra nutrients can enhance overall plant health, especially in intensive hydroponic setups.