Although you may think gardening has to involve sunshine and soil, you can use other methods to grow your own food. Aquaponics alleviates the need for outdoor growing space and a perfect outdoor climate. This quick what is Aquaponics guide will explain the basics of aquaponics to help you decide if it’s the right system for you.
What is Aquaponics?
Aquaponics is a subset of hydroponics. In case you’re unfamiliar, hydroponics is the method of growing plants in a liquid solution, rather than a solid media like soil.
The one defining feature of aquaponics is fish. Rather than applying nutrients to the liquid solution, growers utilize fish waste to feed their plants. Since plants can’t directly take up fish waste, bacteria must first convert the waste into a usable form.
Plants in aquaponic systems can be grown in media such as pebbles or clay pellets, in containers floating on top of the nutrient solution, or in small channels made from PVC pipe.
What Equipment Do You Need?
Your equipment needs will vary depending on the type of aquaponic setup you use. However, all setups require fish and a fish tank. Also, if your setup is in an area without great natural light, you will need grow lights for your plants.
Media Beds
This setup utilizes containers that are filled with media, such as rocks or clay pellets, that support the plants’ roots. Solutions from the fish tanks are pumped into the containers either continuously or on a flood/drain cycle. For this setup, additional equipment includes growing containers, media, and a water pump.
Deep Water Culture
In this setup, plants float in foam rafts on top of the nutrient solution. The plants can float directly on top of the nutrient solution or in a separate watering rig that the nutrient solution is pumped into. This method requires rafts and an optional water pump.
Nutrient Film Technique
In this setup, water is continuously pumped through small channels such as PVC pipe. Plants’ roots extend through small holes in the channels, allowing the solution to flow over the roots. This setup requires PVC pipe and a water pump.
What Fish Do You Use?
While you can technically use just about any fish in an aquaponic system, some fish are better choices than others. First, ask yourself if you want to eat the fish, as this impacts your choice of species. It’s best to use fish that are well-suited to your water temperature and hardy against disease. Popular choices for aquaponic fish include tilapia, koi, and catfish.
What Kinds of Plants Can You Grow with Aquaponics?
The best aquaponic plants are those that are fast-growing and have small root systems. These include lettuce, basil, and kale. Larger plants including tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers can be grown in aquaponic systems, but they do best in media beds or deep water culture.
What Are the Benefits of Using Aquaponics?
Aquaponic rigs are low maintenance once you have them up and running. Since the fish provide nutrients to the plants, you don’t have to apply many additional nutrients. Depending on the type of fish you use, aquaponics systems can supply you with both protein and produce — a complete meal from one system!
Wrap Up
Aquaponics is a fascinating system to try if you’re looking for a new way to grow your own food. It’s also ideal for those without space for an outdoor garden.