Comparison: Best Yates Fish Emulsion (Updated | Nov 30th)

Look at the NPK ratio, concentration format (liquid vs. powder), and any added ingredients like kelp or micronutrients. Check the recommended dilution rates and whether the product is suitable for your plant type (indoor, outdoor, vegetables, or ornamental). Also consider packaging size and price per ounce to gauge overall cost.

Liquid emulsions, such as the 1‑gallon concentrates, are ready to mix and work quickly, making them ideal for frequent, light applications. Powdered formulas, like the 12‑2‑2 powder, have a longer shelf life, lower odor, and can be diluted to cover large volumes of water, which is useful for big garden beds. The trade‑off is that powders require an extra mixing step, while liquids may have a stronger fishy smell.

The 1‑gallon organic fish emulsion with a 2‑3‑1 NPK ratio provides a good balance of nutrient density and price per gallon, especially for regular soil drenching. For very large areas, the 12‑2‑2 powder (3.3 lb) can make up to 300 gallons of feed, delivering the lowest cost per acre when mixed correctly. Choose based on whether you prefer a liquid or powder application method.

Traditional liquid fish emulsions can have a strong fishy scent, which some gardeners find off‑putting. Products that are deodorized, such as the Alaska Fish Emulsion with natural wintergreen, or dry powders like the 12‑2‑2 fish protein, reduce the smell significantly. If odor is a priority, opt for a deodorized liquid or a powdered formulation.

Higher nitrogen (the first number) promotes leafy growth, while phosphorus and potassium support root development and fruiting. For leafy vegetables, a 5‑1‑1 or 2‑3‑1 ratio works well, providing ample nitrogen without excess phosphorus. Fruit‑bearing plants benefit from a slightly higher potassium, so a 12‑2‑2 or 2‑3‑2 ratio can boost yields and improve fruit quality.

Yes, most fish emulsions are versatile enough for both indoor and outdoor use, as long as you follow the proper dilution guidelines. Indoor plants typically need a weaker solution (1‑2 tbsp per gallon of water), while outdoor crops can handle stronger mixes (4 tbsp per gallon for trees). Always check the label for specific recommendations to avoid over‑feeding.

Kelp adds natural hormones that stimulate root growth and improve stress tolerance, while micronutrients such as iron, manganese, and zinc fill nutritional gaps that fish emulsion alone may lack. Products that combine fish emulsion with kelp or micronutrients, like the Liquinox 5‑1‑1 fertilizer, can give a more balanced feed and enhance overall plant vigor. These additives are especially helpful for nutrient‑demanding crops or soils that are deficient.

Fish emulsion is typically applied every 2‑4 weeks during the active growing season, using a light to moderate feeding schedule. Most liquid concentrates recommend 1‑2 tbsp per gallon of water for houseplants and 4 tbsp per gallon for trees or larger beds; powdered versions suggest mixing 1 lb of powder into 100 gallons of water. Adjust frequency based on plant response and avoid over‑application, which can lead to nutrient burn.