Comparison: Best Plant Food Fish Emulsion (Updated | Dec 1st)

First, check the NPK ratio; a balanced 5-1-1 formula like Fertilome or Alaska works well for most vegetables and flowers, while a higher nitrogen ratio (e.g., 12-2-2 powder) boosts leafy growth. Next, consider the form—liquid concentrates are easy to mix for quick applications, whereas powders reduce odor and are more economical for large gardens. Finally, verify organic certifications such as OMRI listing if you need a certified organic product.

Liquid emulsions, such as the Central Garden Brands 1‑quart or the 1‑gallon organic fish emulsion, dissolve instantly and are ideal for foliar sprays or soil drenches, but they often emit a strong fishy odor. Powdered options like the 12‑2‑2 Fish Emulsion Powder eliminate most of the smell and are easier to store, yet they require mixing with water before each use. Both deliver the same nutrients, so choose based on your tolerance for odor and the scale of your garden.

The 1‑gallon Organic Fish Emulsion (2‑3‑1 NPK) provides a low cost per volume and a versatile 2‑3‑1 ratio for frequent light feedings, making it a strong value for large beds. Alaska’s 5‑1‑1 concentrate also comes in a 1‑gallon size and is OMRI‑listed, offering good value for organic growers. For the most economical option on a per‑pound basis, the 12‑2‑2 powder can stretch up to 300 gallons, delivering high nutrient density at a low price.

If you sell produce as certified organic or follow strict organic standards, an OMRI‑listed product like Alaska Fish Fertilizer (115 oz) or GS Plant Foods Liquid Fish & Kelp is required. For personal home gardens, non‑OMRI fish emulsions still provide the same natural nutrients, but they may not qualify for organic certification. Checking the label for OMRI status ensures compliance with any official organic program.

Higher nitrogen (the first number) promotes leafy growth, making ratios like 12‑2‑2 excellent for leafy vegetables and indoor foliage. A balanced 5‑1‑1 ratio supplies enough nitrogen while also supporting root development and flower formation, suitable for a wide range of garden plants. For general-purpose feeding, a 2‑3‑1 or 5‑1‑1 ratio offers a safe, all‑round performance without risking nitrogen burn.

Yes, many indoor‑safe products such as the Central Garden Brands 1‑quart fish emulsion and Neptune’s Harvest 2‑4‑1 are formulated to be low‑odor and non‑burning, making them suitable for houseplants. Diluting the fertilizer to the recommended 1‑2 tablespoons per gallon of water further reduces any scent. If odor is a major concern, the powdered 12‑2‑2 formula eliminates most smell because it’s mixed and applied immediately before use.

The GS Plant Foods Liquid Fish & Kelp blend combines fish hydrolysate with seaweed, delivering additional trace minerals, hormones, and micronutrients that improve soil microbiology and nutrient uptake. Kelp helps plants tolerate stress and enhances root development, complementing the nitrogen boost from fish. This dual‑action formula is especially useful for fruiting plants and lawns that need vigorous, balanced nutrition.

Highly concentrated formulas like the 5‑1‑1 liquid concentrates (Alaska, Fertilome) require dilution and can be applied every 2‑4 weeks, while a lower‑strength 2‑3‑1 mix (1‑gallon organic emulsion) is designed for lighter, more frequent feedings, often weekly during active growth. Powdered 12‑2‑2 fertilizer, being super‑concentrated, can be mixed to a strong solution that lasts 3‑4 weeks before re‑application. Adjusting concentration based on plant type and growth stage helps avoid over‑feeding.

All three brands provide similar organic nutrients, but subtle differences exist: Central Garden emphasizes 11 vitamins and a non‑burning formula, making it gentle for delicate houseplants. Fertilome highlights a clear 5‑1‑1 NPK ratio and includes specific mixing instructions for trees versus shrubs. Alaska’s products are deodorized with wintergreen and OMRI‑listed, appealing to organic gardeners who also want reduced odor. Performance will largely depend on how well you follow dilution rates and match the product to your plant’s needs.