Fish emulsion is a type of organic liquid fertilizer made from fish waste. While fish emulsion can be produced from many different types of fish (including wild caught salmon), a small fish called Menhaden is the most common source of this liquid fertilizer. An oily and bony fish with little edible meat, Menhaden, comes from the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea.

The first step is to cook the fish and to squeeze its juice and oils by pressing. The oil is removed while the leftover solids can be ground and baked into protein meals and fed to animals. The juice of the fish is brought to a boil until it becomes more concentrated and results in a fish emulsion.

To hinder fermentation and extend its shelf-life, phosphoric acid is added to the emulsion. The percentage of phosphoric acid in the solution should be under 1% to meet the USDA criteria for organic products.

Although formulations vary, fish emulsion liquid fertilizer typically contains approximately four to five percent nitrogen (N), two percent phosphorus (P), two percent potassium (K), and trace elements. Trace elements, also called micronutrients, are chemical elements that plants need in minute quantities in order to thrive.

Adventurous gardeners make their own liquid fertilizer from fish. It’s a smelly, messy process, but it could be economical for gardeners with a ready supply of fish waste.

Liquid organic fish emulsions are an exception to other organic fertilizers because they release nutrients to the plant immediately. Hence, liquid fish emulsions are used for transplanting seedlings because it makes them more viable. To use as fertilizer, the liquid fish emulsion is diluted in water and sprayed on plants or used to water the soil.

As with the use of all fertilizers, application instructions should be followed strictly. Remember to dilute it in the recommended percentage to prevent damaging seeds and young plants. Only mix the amount you are going to use that day because after it has been mixed with water its potency will be lost when stored. And keep the mixture away from heat to prevent deterioration. Since it’s made from fish, brace yourself for the pungent odor but this will disappear in a few days.

Production of liquid fish emulsions fertilizers is environmentally sound from start to finish. Only fish parts that are unused or are considered as waste by fish and feed processing companies are used. Thus, the use of fish emulsions organic fertilizers thus decrease toxins in our food and helps make zero waste possible.

Frequently we have bought plants on a whim only to discover that we do not have anywhere in the garden that is suitable for them. An examination of conditions in our garden should precede any purchases of plants. All plants have a preference for either shady or sunny sites, hot or cool, and dry or wet conditions. Another consideration is the exposure of the site to prevailing winds and their strength.

Hold on! A soil test can be a good idea to inform you what the pH is and if you should add specific nutrients. Most garden plants like a slightly acid ground, but some prefer alkaline soil. What is the reading for your soil? While it is possible to change the pH of the ground it is far simpler to choose plants that will like the soil you have already.

So you think you are ready to start planting.  Should you plant each plant you like on its own or in groups? Single plants often look spotty. Groups often look better as the colors are harmonious and make a better impact.

Put your chosen plants in their pots in your planned places in the beds to see how they look. You can change the positions if they do not look right. Often uneven numbers of plants will look better than even numbers. Textures and colors should look interesting before a decision is made. Be aware of the final height of plants and where they are to be viewed from. Tall plants should not obscure short plants. Keep a distance from any trees as the roots can steal moisture and food from your plants.

To maintain the right harmony consider the color scheme. The flowers may bloom at different times. Even clashing colors may be planted side by side if the flowers bloom at different times. The leaf colors can also be important. Gray or purple foliage can be as much of a feature as the blossoms. So consider the value of the plant even after its flowering season is over in relation to its neighbors.