The most crucial component of an aquaponics system is likely the grow bed.
Selecting the appropriate aquaponics growbed can result in thriving plants, but failure to do so may hinder their growth and prevent them from reaching their full potential.
An instance of this is that a grow bed made of concrete can alter the pH level of your water, hindering your ability to cultivate a suitable atmosphere for your plants.
Providing ample space for your plants to flourish is a crucial benefit of choosing the appropriate grow bed. The growing area, which is determined by the bed size, is closely linked to the number of fish allowed.
If either of these components is incorrect, it may lead to insufficient nourishment for the plants or inadequate filtration for the fish.
The most rewarding component of your system will probably be the grow bed, despite it possibly being the largest part.
What’s the purpose of a grow bed?
It is crucial to ensure that your grow bed is appropriately sized according to your system. The size of your fish tank and grow bed are directly linked.
The quantity of fish waste is a determining factor for the growth and prosperity of plants. Fish secrete ammonia, which is transformed into nitrites and subsequently nitrates by bacteria present on the cultivation surface. These nitrates serve as nourishment for the plants.
If you have an excessive amount of fish or fish food, it will result in an overabundance of ammonia and nitrates – which can slowly poison the water for the fish if you lack enough grow bed media. Conversely, if you have too few fish, your plants won’t receive sufficient nutrients.
In order to begin with aquaponics, you will require a surface area of 50ft² for every pound of fully grown fish and 8 gallons of water for each pound of fully grown fish.
Expensive vs DIY growbeds
It is reassuring to know that an affordable aquaponics grow bed can be just as efficient as a pricier one. What determines its effectiveness is not the price, but how well it integrates with your overall system.
You must also take into account the material of your grow bed. The combined weight of water and the growing medium can be significant, which means that your grow bed must be sturdy enough to support this weight.
It is essential for it to have waterproofing to prevent water leakage while nurturing your plants.
Stands for grow beds
To enable the cultivation of a variety of plants, it is recommended that the grow bed has a capacity of around 14 inches for growing media. A popular option is to position the grow bed on top of the fish tank, as this saves space and reduces the amount of pipework required for the system.
It’s important to carefully evaluate whether your tank can withstand the weight of a grow bed, particularly since you’ll need to access the tank for regular fish checks, which can potentially weaken the base of the tank.
While it may seem unconventional, the chop and flip technique of aquaponics is indeed a practical approach to consider. Its effectiveness lies in cutting off a third of the IBC tote’s top and turning it upside down to sit on the bottom section, while keeping the original frame.
There are various shapes and sizes available for grow bed stands, which enable you to utilize limited space for your aquaponics setup while avoiding the risk of the bed collapsing into the tank.
Using center blocks and sturdy 2×4’s is the ideal way to construct your own grow bed stands.
Examples of DIY grow beds
Getting started with sourcing or making your own grow bed is quite easy, and here are some helpful ideas to guide you.
Beds for growing in an IBC.
You can acquire an IBC tote, and there is a possibility that you can obtain one without paying. Simply eliminate the structure, sever the topmost portion, and flip it over. The inverted section can be positioned on the initial framework to create a thriving bed, while the remaining part of the IBC tote functions as a tank for fishes!
Grow beds made from 55-gallon barrels.
You can choose this alternative at no cost, but ensure the barrel is thoroughly cleaned beforehand to prevent harmful chemicals from contaminating your fresh aquaponics grow bed.
A pond liner used for a timber frame.
Constructing your own timber frame system is within reach if you have leftover timber or possess DIY skills. By utilizing a wooden floor and plastic pond liner, the grow media and water can be contained, resulting in a straightforward frame.
You can also use the same materials to create a fish tank if you are looking for a more daring project.
One of the fantastic aspects is that you have the ability to select both the dimensions and form.
The number of siphons in growbeds
To transfer water from your fish tank to the grow bed, you’ll require a pump. However, the optimal method to bring back the water to the fish tank is through a siphon. The predicament is determining the number of siphons needed.
The actual response will vary based on the specific aquaponics grow bed that you have selected.
Growbeds that are designed according to the principles of the International Building Code (IBC).
Having an IBC tote allows you to have a grow bed placed on top of your fish tank, and only one siphon is necessary in this case. If the grow bed is smaller than approximately 16 square feet, then it can suffice with less than one siphon.
55-gallon drums or containers
By installing only one siphon, you can reduce your expenses. However, it is important to ensure that the water in your fish tank circulates at least once every hour as the growbeds will fill and drain more slowly.
How to choose aquaponics grow bed material
As briefly stated earlier, aquaponics is the practice of cultivating plants without the use of soil.
Rather than using chemically treated materials, either natural or man-made substitutes are utilized to provide assistance to the crops.
By doing this, the material secures the roots firmly and allows the seeds to safely sprout inside it rather than in the soil.
The material used for the grow beds aids in the absorption of nutrients by plants and provides support to prevent them from toppling over in harsh weather conditions.
Moreover, they offer a habitat for essential microorganisms to thrive. The material used for the grow bed is a vital element of the basis for this type of cultivation.
Before embarking on planning your system, allocate some time to familiarize yourself with the available options.
It is important to note that grow bed material is not always a necessity for every type of aquaponics method.
Things to consider when selecting grow bed material
A variety of grow bed materials are available in the market, and although some favor inorganic options, others opt for organic materials.
After gaining an understanding of the purpose of grow bed material, it’s time to examine the factors you should keep in mind while choosing one.
Having a pH level that is neither acidic nor alkaline.
It is important to monitor the pH level as part of the maintenance routine for an aquaponics system.
When deciding on the material for your grow bed, it is important to take into consideration that certain materials could impact the pH level, which may negatively impact your fish and hinder the growth of your plants.
Managing the pH level of the system will be made easier if the grow bed material is pH neutral.
What makes pH critical?
Regulating the pH levels in your aquaponics system is of utmost importance and requires daily monitoring. It is recommended to choose fish and plant crops that have a similar pH range for optimal results.
It should be considered that certain grow media have the ability to alter the pH levels within an aquaponics setup. These modifications often lead to stunted plant growth and unfavorable conditions for the fish, causing potential harm or mortality.
Limestone is a medium that raises the pH level well above the recommended range.
can be quite a sensitive topic for many people, causing them to feel self-conscious and uncomfortable in their own skin. It can affect a person’s confidence and overall well-being. The issue of weight is a delicate matter that can make individuals feel insecure and uneasy about themselves, potentially damaging their self-esteem and overall health.
If your setup is smaller or flimsy, it is crucial to consider the weight of the material used for the grow bed.
When selecting the material for your grow bed, it is important to ensure that it is not excessively large or heavy, as this may cause difficulties in handling it.
Moreover, excessive weight may cause harm to the garden bed.
Opt for a lightweight to medium-weight material as a larger setup typically tends to be considerably heavier.
Ensure that the weight is distributed uniformly on the bed while spreading it.
The nature of the material, whether rough or smooth, may lead to pipe blockage within the system as an end result.
of living expenses are increasing at an alarming rate, causing financial strain for many individuals and families.
There will be materials available at varying prices. Keep in mind your budget and aim to stay within it.
It’s important to remember that certain materials can be reused, meaning that although there may be a higher initial cost, it will offset in the long run as you won’t have to replace it frequently.
Make sure to consider several alternatives so that you do not overspend and have insufficient funds for other essential components.
Gravel’s affordability is attributed to its easy availability in most regions, whereas hydroton’s scarcity translates to a higher cost.
Ease in Handling
When setting up your aquaponics garden, manual placement of the grow medium is necessary, and this can be a time-consuming task. Therefore, it is recommended to choose a grow medium that is gentle on your hands.
One reason why lava rocks are preferred by several cultivators is due to their significant dimensions and enhanced permeability, in contrast to alternative alternatives.
The sharp edges of these objects can pose a risk of injury if you are not cautious when handling them.
To avoid such dangers, it is advisable to choose options that are gentle on your hands or to wear gloves.
Adequate surface area.
As previously stated, a key role of grow media is to furnish a space for the proliferation of bacteria.
In most cases, a greater surface area equates to an increased amount of bacteria and a quicker transformation of fish waste (ammonia) into nitrates.
Maintaining the same meaning: Dimensions
When selecting a grow media, it is important to take into account its size. If the media is too small, it can lead to obstruction in your aquaponic systems.
Your crops will experience a slower growth rate if there are air gaps due to excessive size.
Providing enough support and space for colonizing bacteria, it is advisable to stick to the size range of half an inch to three-fourths of an inch.
The process of breaking down organic matter into simpler compounds is called decomposition.
Do not buy a growing medium that will break down either during or after the end of a growth cycle.
The reason for this is that decomposition decreases the bacteria’s surface area and impacts the creation of nitrates.
Accumulating for prolonged periods can lead to the blockage of your system and the creation of anaerobic conditions, which can have a substantial impact on the well-being of your crops and fish.
Grow bed material options
After gaining an understanding of the factors to consider when selecting your grow bed material, let us examine some of the available choices.
Bear in mind that no grow bed material is flawlessly ideal.
Coco Coir, also known as Coconut Fiber.
Grow media made from coconut husks include coconut fiber growth mediums that can be obtained in the form of chips or pith.
Coconut fiber’s notable characteristic is its resemblance to soil, which allows it to regulate the nutrient levels in your aquaponics setup, preventing possible negative impacts due to over or under feeding of the plants.
Coco coir has a pH neutral property as well as a favorable oxygen-to-water ratio that makes it suitable for cultivating a wide variety of crops without being concerned about acidity or alkalinity.
Watering is not necessary for a day or two due to the excellent water retention of this medium.
One disadvantage of this material is its inadequate drainage capability, which can be remedied by blending it with alternative growing media.
Rock made of lava
When hot lava rapidly cools down, lava rock is created.
Opting for this will provide your grow bed material with ample surface area.
These rocks contain air pockets that offer bacteria more surface area for growth. Additionally, they possess favourable drainage qualities, are pH neutral and are relatively lightweight.
Nonetheless, their sharp edges can pose a danger to your hands or damage the root system of your plants.
In case you opt for lava rocks, it is recommended that you soak them for several days before cleaning.
Clay pebbles can be rewashed and reused, making them a sustainable and eco-friendly option for gardening and hydroponic systems.
Clay pebbles, similar to lava rocks, provide ample surface area and have a neutral pH.
Although not all plants can be grown using this specific bed material, there are still a substantial number of eligible ones listed.
With its minute perforations, clay pebbles can retain enough moisture while facilitating adequate drainage and promoting optimal air circulation.
Although clay pebbles are an excellent choice for a grow bed substance, they are not the most cost-effective.
Moreover, during initial usage, they have a tendency to float, causing interference with your system’s functioning.
Reworded: A material known as Rockwool.
By subjecting a blend of coke, limestone, and volcanic rock to elevated temperatures, Rockwool is created. The melted substance is transformed into fibers that are formed into slabs and blocks at a later stage.
A sterile grow media that has excellent water retention and aeration properties is produced. Additionally, it has a long lifespan and can be reused if properly disinfected and rinsed after each growth cycle.
One major drawback of this substance is its inability to decompose, requiring proper disposal methods when no longer useable.
If you opt for rockwool as your growing medium, it’s important to keep a close eye on your system because certain varieties of rockwool can possess a substantial pH level that stems from the bonding agents utilized during production.
It is highly recommended to wear protective equipment when working with rockwool because it can cause irritations on the skin, lungs, and eyes. The material can lead to itchiness.
