Aquaponics Systems Tip #1
Day 1: The #1 Reason For Aquaponics System Problems
Almost all problems with freshwater fish and organic
vegetables can be traced back to one thing.
POOR WATER CONDITIONS
Sadly, it’s common for many aquaponics beginners to fail to
monitor the pH levels of the water in their aquaponics
system closely enough.
While the fish and vegetables can survive for a while in a
system where the pH levels of the water are out of balance,
their health will eventually go downhill ~ big time.
It happens every time!
Fortunately, almost all fish, fruit and vegetable problems
are totally preventable.
It is because you can easily setup your aquaponics system
the right way from the very beginning.
Aquaponics Systems Tip #2 – Be Creative!
Day 2: Here are some tips to get you started on the right foot
with setting up your aquaponics system “properly”
One of my favorite aspects of building an aquaponics
system is that you can be as creative as you want to be.
A lot of people think that it must be expensive, but that
just isn’t the case.
One of the coolest ideas I have seen people put into action
is to find a large tub to build their first aquaponics
system with. I started with a large recycled porcelain
bathtub!
If the tub has no holes or cracks, and can handle 500
gallons of water, you are all set to go.
I have seen people even use large metal/plastic barrels to
use as a holding tank for their fish, and if you decide to
go this route, I suggest you go with food-grade plastic
only.
Remember, this is where the fish are going to be living 24
hours/day, so it’s a good idea to make sure it is clean and
doesn’t leak.
By following the above guidelines, you’ll be taking the
first steps toward creating the optimal environment for
your fish, fruit, and vegetables.
Aquaponics Systems Tip #3 – The 3 Main Aquaponics Variants
There are three main variants of aquaponics. The first
variant is called the “ranch tank.” It’s easy to make a
ranch tank.
All you need is to dig a deep pit in the ground, fill that
pit with a few thousand liters of water, and throw some
fingerlings in.
Algae will grow in the water; some fish eat algae, some
don’t. You will not be able to harvest any vegetables from
this type of setup however.
The second variant is the solar pond (which we discussed
in a previous lesson). It has a holding tank that acts as a
home for the fish and the vegetables.
The third variant makes use of a water pump and a flow
system to cycle the water.
The best setup, according to aquaponics enthusiasts, is the
third variant because it provides the biggest yields and is
the easiest to maintain over a long period of time.
Now you know the 3 setups and the basics of each.
More Aquaponics Tips to Come…
Best Regards,
Robbie
