Comparison: Best Water Soluble Fish Fertilizer (Updated | Nov 30th)
Packed with essential nutrients and easy to use, it’s no wonder gardeners everywhere are making the switch. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which one delivers the best results? In this comparison, we’ll break down the top contenders—weighing smell, nutrient content, ease of use, and value—so you can choose the right fertilizer to help your garden thrive, naturally.
- Best for vigorous root boost: Fertilome (10612) Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 (32 oz)
- Best for vitamin-rich organic: CENTRAL GARDEN BRANDS 100099247 Fish Emul Fertilizer
- Best for high nitrogen power: Down To Earth All Natural Fertilizers Organic Solution Grade Fish Powder – Water Soluble Nitrogen – Makes up to 50 Gallons of Liquid Fish Fertilizer for Soil or Foliar Spray 12-1-1
- Best for all-purpose bloom boost: Pennington Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food 20-10-20 8/1.5lb
- Best for root development formula: Down To Earth All Natural Fertilizers Organic Fish Bone Meal – High Phosphorus Plant Food for Buds
- Best for aquarium plant nutrient: API LEAF ZONE Freshwater Aquarium Plant Fertilizer 8-Ounce Bottle
- Best for organic garden emulsion: Alaska Fish Fertilizer OMRI Listed 5-1-1
- Best for seaweed boost blend: Neptune’s Harvest Fish & Seaweed Fertilizer 2-3-1
- Best for yield-enhancing emulsion: 1 Gallon Organic Fish Emulsion Fertilizer for Plants – Ideal Liquid Fish Fertilizer for Plants
- Best for low-odor powder: Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 12-2-2 Powder (3.3 pounds Powder-Up to 300 Gallons of Water)
Product Comparison: Best Water Soluble 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.
CENTRAL GARDEN BRANDS 100099247 Fish Emul Fertilizer, 1 Quart
- Promotes healthy plant growth with 11 vitamins
- Can be used on all indoor and outdoor plants
- 100-percent organic
- Stimulates microorganisms
- Does not burn
Down To Earth All Natural Fertilizers Organic Solution Grade Fish Powder – Water Soluble Nitrogen – Makes up to 50 Gallons of Liquid Fish Fertilizer for Soil or Foliar Spray 12-1-1, 1 lb
- High Nitrogen Content (12-1-1): Provides essential nitrogen to encourage lush, green, and healthy plant growth.
- Organic & OMRI Listed: Made from sustainably sourced fish and approved for organic gardening.
- Slow-Release Nutrients: Offers steady nutrient availability to feed plants over time without burning.
- Improves Soil Fertility: Enhances soil microbial activity and structure for healthier growing conditions.
- Versatile Use: Suitable for vegetables, flowers, shrubs, lawns, and container plants.
Pennington Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food 20-10-20 8/1.5lb
- Water soluble plant food mix with a measuring scoop.
- Wide mouth jar for easy scooping without the mess
- Formulated to keep the product dry and free flowing
- A foam seal on the lid conserves freshness
- All purpose plant food for bigger, more bountiful fruits and blooms vs. unfed
- Safe for all plants – when used according to to label dilution
- For feeding plants including fruits, vegetables and flowers. Guaranteed to grow your plants
- Apply every 7-14 days or as needed throught the growing season
- For new and established plants
- Simply scoop plant food into watering can, add water, and apply Follow application rates listed on container for best results
Down To Earth All Natural Fertilizers Organic Fish Bone Meal – High Phosphorus Plant Food for Buds, Bulbs, Blooms, Flower Beds 4-12-0, 5 lb
- Water-Soluble Formula – Easily dissolves in water for quick absorption and efficient nutrient delivery directly to the root zone
- Targets Root Development – Formulated to enhance root growth, improving plant stability, nutrient uptake, and drought resistance
- Fast-Acting Nutrients – Provides immediate access to essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium where roots need them most.
- Ideal for Transplants & Seedlings – Great for jumpstarting young plants or helping transplants establish quickly in new soil.
- Improves Soil-Root Interaction – Encourages a healthy rhizosphere, boosting microbial activity and root-zone nutrient cycling.
API LEAF ZONE Freshwater Aquarium Plant Fertilizer 8-Ounce Bottle
- Product Type: ARTIFICIAL PLANT
- Package length: 19.558 cm
- Package width: 3.048 cm
- Package height: 4.572 cm
Alaska Fish Fertilizer OMRI Listed 5-1-1, 115 oz
- Fish-based fertilizer for use in vegetable, fruit, and flower gardens
- Excellent for use on flowers, trees, and other plants
- OMRI listed
- For organic gardening
- Great for all indoor and outdoor plants
- NPK 5-1-1 fish emulsion fertilizer
- Fish has been used as a natural source of plant nutrients for centuries
- Easy to use, just mix with water
Neptune’s Harvest Fish & Seaweed Fertilizer 2-3-1, 18 Ounce
- Grow a beautiful vegetable garden
- Flowers and foliage will be stronger and more colorful
- Blooms will be more plentiful, fragrant and longer lasting
- Easy to mix and apply by hand, sprayer, or drip line
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 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
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 my garden?
For general leafy growth a higher nitrogen ratio such as 5‑1‑1 (Fertilome) or 12‑2‑2 (Fish Emulsion Powder) works well, while fruiting plants benefit from a more balanced 2‑3‑1 blend like the 1‑gallon organic fish emulsion. If you need strong root development, a formula rich in phosphorus such as the 2‑3‑1 fish & seaweed fertilizer can be advantageous. Choose the ratio that matches the primary growth stage of the plants you are feeding.
How does a liquid fish emulsion compare to a powdered fish fertilizer?
Liquid emulsions, like the 1‑gallon Organic Fish Emulsion, are ready‑to‑mix and provide quick nutrient uptake, but they often have a stronger fishy odor and require more storage space. Powdered options, such as the 12‑2‑2 Fish Emulsion Powder, are highly concentrated, odor‑reduced, and can be diluted to make large volumes of feed, making them cost‑effective for big beds or hydroponic systems. Both deliver the same organic nutrients; the choice hinges on convenience, odor tolerance, and volume needs.
Are there odor differences and how can I manage them?
Traditional liquid fish emulsions emit a noticeable fishy smell, especially the 1‑gallon Organic Fish Emulsion, whereas powdered forms like the 12‑2‑2 Fish Emulsion Powder are formulated to minimize odor. To reduce smell, dilute the product in a well‑ventilated area, apply it early in the morning, and consider using a closed‑system sprayer. Adding a small amount of compost tea can also mask the odor while enhancing microbial activity.
Which products are certified organic or OMRI listed?
The Down To Earth Organic Fish Powder (12‑1‑1) and the Alaska Fish Fertilizer (5‑1‑1) are both OMRI listed, confirming they meet organic gardening standards. Central Garden Brands Fish Emulsion and the 1‑gallon Organic Fish Emulsion also carry organic certifications. If strict organic compliance is essential for your garden, prioritize these listed items.
How do application rates differ between concentrates and ready‑to‑use formulas?
Concentrated products like Fertilome (5‑1‑1) recommend 1‑2 Tbsp per gallon of water for garden beds and 4 Tbsp per gallon for trees, while ready‑to‑use formulas such as the 1‑gallon Organic Fish Emulsion can be applied at 1‑2 Tbsp per 5 gal of water for a gentle, frequent feed. Powdered fertilizers, for example the 12‑2‑2 Fish Emulsion Powder, use a ratio of 1 lb to 100 gal, allowing you to make large batches with minimal effort. Always follow the label instructions to avoid over‑fertilizing.
Is a water‑soluble fish fertilizer better for hydroponics or indoor plants?
Water‑soluble options like Pennington All‑Purpose Plant Food (20‑10‑20) dissolve quickly and provide precise nutrient control, making them ideal for hydroponic systems and indoor containers where runoff is limited. Liquid fish emulsions also work well indoors but may require careful odor management and regular dilution. Choose a water‑soluble product if you need exact dosing and a clean, mess‑free application.
What value considerations (price per ounce, concentration) should I evaluate?
High‑concentration powders, such as the 12‑2‑2 Fish Emulsion Powder (3.3 lb), deliver the most plant food per dollar because a small amount makes many gallons of feed. Liquid concentrates like Fertilome (32 oz) are less expensive per ounce but require more frequent purchases due to lower nutrient density. Compare the total cost of the amount needed to treat your garden area, not just the shelf price.
Can I use the same fish fertilizer on vegetables, flowers, and trees?
Yes, most fish‑based fertilizers are versatile; the 5‑1‑1 Fertilome works on vegetables, ornamental flowers, and trees when mixed at the appropriate rate. For more delicate seedlings or transplants, a lower‑strength formula such as the 2‑3‑1 fish & seaweed blend is gentler and promotes root establishment. Adjust the dilution according to plant type and growth stage for optimal results.