Using Fish Emulsion: Learn How And When To Use Fish Emulsion Fertilizer

Pile Of Fresh Fish
fish
(Image credit: artas)

You probably already know your plants need light, water, and good soil to thrive, but they also benefit from the addition of fertilizer, ideally organic. There are several organic fertilizers available – one type being fish fertilizer for plants. The following article contains information on fish emulsion use, including when to use fish emulsion and how to apply it to your plants.

About Fish Emulsion Use

Fish emulsion, or fish fertilizer for plants, is a fast-acting, organic liquid fertilizer made from the byproducts of the fishing industry. It is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, plus trace elements such as calcium, magnesium, sulfur, chlorine, and sodium.

Benefits to Using Fish Emulsion

Not only is fish fertilizer an organic option, it is made from fish parts that would otherwise be wasted. It contains plenty of nutrients for quick absorption by plants. Fish fertilizer for plants is a mild, all-purpose feeding option that can be used at any time. It may be used as a soil drench, foliar spray, in the form of fish meal, or added to the compost pile.

Selecting fish fertilizer is a terrific option for leafy green veggies due to its high nitrogen content. Fish emulsion use is especially beneficial as a lawn fertilizer in the early spring.

How to Apply Fish Emulsion

Do be careful when applying fish fertilizer, however. Too much fish emulsion can burn plants and affect their growth. As long as you’re careful, fish fertilizer is a mild fertilizer that, in moderation, can be used at almost any stage of plant growth.

Fish fertilizer for plants is a concentrated product that is diluted with water prior to application. Combine ½ ounce (14 g.) of fish emulsion with one gallon (4 L.) of water, then simply water the plants with the mixture.

To get the most benefit from using fish fertilizer on your plants, apply the mixture twice per week. In the spring, apply the diluted fish emulsion to the lawn with a sprayer.

Amy Grant
Writer

Amy Grant has been gardening for 30 years and writing for 15. A professional chef and caterer, Amy's area of expertise is culinary gardening.