top of page
So you want to grow plants in your aquarium...
Aquaponics for the home Aquarist
But not just any plant, You have decided to put that fish poo to good use and harness it's nutrient potential to grow vegetables. You've come to the right place!
Setting up an aquarium for aquaponics involves creating a balanced ecosystem where fish and plants can thrive together. In aquaponics, fish waste provides nutrients for the plants, and the plants help filter the water, creating a symbiotic environment. Here's a step-by-step guide to setting up your aquaponics system:
The size of the aquarium will depend on the number of fish you plan to keep and the type of plants you want to grow. A 20-50 gallon tank is typically a good starting point.
​
1. Choose the Right Location
-
Find a suitable spot for your aquarium that is stable, level, and away from direct sunlight to prevent excessive algae growth.
-
Ensure the location has access to power for the pump and grow lights (if needed).
2. Select the Aquarium Size
-
The size of the aquarium will depend on the number of fish you plan to keep and the type of plants you want to grow. A 20-50 gallon tank is typically a good starting point.
-
Ensure the tank is made of safe, non-toxic materials.
-
We recommend a 40 gallon Breeder, sold at most pet stores.
3. Set Up the Filtration System
-
Mechanical Filter: Removes solid waste particles from the water.
-
Biological Filter: Provides a habitat for beneficial bacteria that convert toxic ammonia (from fish waste) into nitrites and then into less harmful nitrates, which plants can absorb.
-
Pump: A water pump will circulate water from the fish tank to the grow bed and back, ensuring the water stays oxygenated and nutrients are distributed.
-
A simple canister filter will be well suited for this task.
4. Prepare the Grow Bed
-
Grow Bed Material: Use materials like gravel, clay pebbles, or other inert mediums that support plant roots.
-
Flood and Drain System (Ebb and Flow): The grow bed should be set up above the aquarium, with a system that floods the bed with water and then drains it back into the tank. This promotes root health and nutrient absorption.
-
Siphon or Timer: Install a bell siphon or use a timer to control the flood and drain cycle.
5. Add Water and Condition It
-
Fill the tank with dechlorinated water. You can use a water conditioner or let the water sit for 24-48 hours to remove chlorine.
-
Test the pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels to ensure they are within safe ranges. The ideal pH for aquaponics is around 6.8-7.0.
6. Cycle the System
-
Fishless Cycling: Before adding fish, cycle the system by adding ammonia or fish food to the water to establish beneficial bacteria colonies. This can take 4-6 weeks.
-
Fish-In Cycling: Alternatively, you can add hardy fish and monitor water parameters closely, doing partial water changes to protect the fish during the cycling process.
7. Select and Introduce Fish
-
Choose fish species that are hardy and suited for your climate. Common choices include tilapia, goldfish, and koi.
-
Introduce the fish gradually, starting with a small number and adding more as the system stabilizes.
8. Add Plants to the Grow Bed
-
Seedlings or Seeds: Start with healthy seedlings or directly sow seeds in the grow bed. Leafy greens, herbs, and some vegetables like lettuce, basil, and tomatoes are popular choices.
-
Lighting: If natural light is insufficient, install grow lights above the plants to provide 12-16 hours of light per day.
9. Monitor and Maintain the System
-
Regularly test water quality (pH, ammonia, nitrites, nitrates) to ensure the environment is healthy for both fish and plants.
-
Feed the fish daily, but be cautious not to overfeed as excess food can lead to poor water quality.
-
Prune plants as needed and harvest mature plants to maintain balance in the system.
10. Troubleshooting
-
Watch for signs of stress in fish (such as gasping at the surface) or poor plant growth (yellowing leaves), which may indicate water quality issues.
-
Adjust feeding, water changes, or add supplements as needed to correct any imbalances.
By following these steps, you can successfully set up an aquarium for aquaponics, creating a sustainable and efficient system that benefits both fish and plants.
Now available in the Aquaponics Store
Now available in the Aquaponics Store
Now available in the Aquaponics Store
bottom of page