Comparison: Best Making Fish Emulsion (Updated | Dec 1st)
If you’ve ever wondered how some gardeners get their tomatoes so plump or their greens so vibrant, the secret might just be bubbling in a bucket in their backyard: homemade fish emulsion. But not all fish emulsions are created equal. We’ve tested and compared the best methods—from fermented brews to quick enzymatic breakdowns—to help you find the easiest, smell-free(ish), and most effective way to turn fish scraps into garden gold.
- Best for odor-free boost: Alaska Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 Concentrate 1 Gallon (Packaging may vary)
- Best for deep green growth: Fertilome (10612) Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 (32 oz)
- Best for salmon nutrient blend: Fish Emulsion Fertilizer
- Best for sustainably sourced: 1 Gallon Organic Fish Emulsion Fertilizer for Plants – Ideal Liquid Fish Fertilizer for Plants
- Best for versatile plant feed: 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 omri certified: Safergro Aqua Power Certified Organic Fish Emulsion Concentrate
- Best for all-purpose liquid: Liquinox 7128 Fish Emulsion 5-1-1 Fertilizer
- Best for vitamin-rich oil: EMULSION DE ESCOCIA Cod Liver Oil
- Best for big batch boost: Fish Emulsion Fertilizer
Product Comparison: Best Making Fish Emulsion
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.
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
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 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
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
EMULSION DE ESCOCIA Cod Liver Oil, Orange Flavor, 6.5 fl oz (1 Pack) – Fish Oil with Vitamins A, D, E, B1, Omega-3 for Immune and Bone Health, Kids & Adults
- [NUTRIENT-RICH FORMULA] Emulsión de Escocia Cod Liver Oil Liquid provides essential Vitamins A, D, E & B1, promoting immune support and bone health for kids and adults.
- [SUPPORTS STRONG BONES] With high levels of Vitamin D, this fish oil liquid helps the body absorb calcium effectively, aiding in the development and maintenance of strong bones.
- [BRAIN HEALTH BOOSTER] The Omega-3 fatty acids in our cod liver oil are crucial for maintaining overall health, particularly benefiting brain development and function in children.
- [FAMILY-FRIENDLY SUPPLEMENT] Ideal for the whole family, our formula supports natural body resistance and bone strength, especially in growing children and adults with a diet lacking in natural iron and vitamins.
- [DELICIOUS FLAVOR] Enjoy the tasty Orange flavor, making it easier for children and adults to incorporate this beneficial supplement into their daily routine.
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 key factors should I look at when picking a fish emulsion fertilizer?
Focus on the NPK ratio, concentration level, and whether the product is liquid or powder, as these affect dilution and application frequency. Check for certifications like OMRI to ensure organic compliance, and consider any added nutrients such as amino acids, vitamins, or micronutrients. Also review the recommended usage rates for your plant type and garden size.
How do liquid fish emulsions compare to powdered versions for home gardening?
Liquid emulsions, like the 1‑gallon concentrates, are ready to mix with water and are convenient for quick foliar sprays or soil drenches, but they can have a stronger fish odor. Powdered options, such as the 12‑2‑2 powder, are less odorous, have a longer shelf life, and can be mixed in bulk to cover large areas with fewer containers. The trade‑off is that powders require an extra step to dissolve fully before use.
Which product gives the best value for large‑scale garden applications?
The 12‑2‑2 fish emulsion powder (3.3 lb) offers the highest yield, making up to 100 gallons of feed per pound, which is cost‑effective for extensive vegetable plots. The 1‑gallon organic liquid with a 2‑3‑1 NPK ratio also provides good coverage but at a higher per‑gallon price. For bulk coverage, the powder generally delivers more feed for less money.
Is odor a concern with fish emulsions, and which products minimize the smell?
Traditional liquid emulsions often have a noticeable fishy scent, especially the 1‑gallon organic fish emulsion that advertises a strong aroma. Products that are deodorized, like the Alaska Fish Emulsion with natural wintergreen, or the dry powder formulation, reduce odor significantly. If scent is a priority, choose a deodorized liquid or a powder.
How do the NPK ratios differ among the listed fish emulsions, and what does that mean for my plants?
Most products use a 5‑1‑1 ratio, delivering a balanced nitrogen boost for leafy growth, while the organic 1‑gallon option offers a 2‑3‑1 ratio that favors steady, long‑term development. The 12‑2‑2 powder provides higher phosphorus and potassium, supporting root and fruit development. Choose a ratio that matches your plant’s growth stage—higher nitrogen for foliage, higher phosphorus/potassium for blooming or fruiting.
Are there any certified organic fish emulsions I should consider?
Yes, Safergro Aqua Power is OMRI‑certified organic, guaranteeing it meets strict organic standards. The 1‑gallon organic fish emulsion also markets itself as fully organic, using cold‑pressed, sustainably sourced fish. Selecting a certified product ensures compliance with organic gardening practices and may qualify for organic labeling.
Which fish emulsion works best for indoor houseplants?
For indoor use, a low‑odor, low‑concentration product is ideal; the Alaska Fish Emulsion’s deodorized formula or the 5‑1‑1 Fertilome concentrate are good choices because they can be diluted heavily (1‑2 Tbsp per gallon). The powder version can also be used indoors if mixed well, but it requires careful handling to avoid dust. Always start with a weaker solution to prevent root burn.
How do concentration and dilution rates affect how often I should feed my plants?
Higher‑concentration products, like the 1‑gallon 5‑1‑1 concentrates, typically require feeding every 2‑3 weeks when diluted to the recommended strength. More dilute solutions, such as a 1‑2 Tbsp per gallon mix, can be applied more frequently, even weekly, without risking nutrient burn. Adjust frequency based on plant response and growth stage, reducing feed during dormant periods.