Finally after much planning, building, learning and patiently waiting, my Aquaponics system is fully functional and producing wonderful organic veggies for the table.
Yesterday the final piece of cladding went on followed by the self opening windows that should hopefully regulate the internal temperature of the greenhouse.
Now, even though I live in the south of Australia, which is much colder than the subtropical and tropical areas, I should be able to grow the exotic fruits that I crave i.e. Mangoes, Paw Paw, Avocado. As well as extending the growing season for a huge variety of veggies. Hopefully, no more glut and famine that is the norm for home veggie gardening.
The system has now stabilised after 10 weeks, with the naturally occurring good bacteria having built up sufficiently in the grow beds to change all of the fish waste (mainly Ammonia) to Nitrites and the Nitrites to Nitrates that the feed the plants.
With the full cladding now on the greenhouse, the water temperature has risen significantly from a range of 4 to 8 degrees to that of 14 to 18 degrees and rising. This is far more conducive for fish health and growth as well as better veggie health and growth.
7 days ago I planted a Mango tree, and yesterday I ordered a dwarf Avocado and dwarf Paw Paw.
As the fish grow in size and produce more waste, I will be able to plant more veggies and see them grow at a very rapid rate.
The aim is to lead a far more sustainable and healthier life by producing sufficient quantities of truly organic fruit and veggies all year round. Stay tuned to follow my success or otherwise.
It looks like it’s all going as planned! You’ve learned well and it will be interesting to watch your success.
Thanks again Nancy, I’ll keep you informed. Looking good so far but should improve even more when I get my Silver Perch and Catfish fingerlings in December.
Lovely! š
Thanks LFFL
Sounds amazing I am keen to check it out as you go along, regards Jane Martin
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Pop over any time Jane. I’d love to show you around.
I find this enormously exciting Paul. The idea that the cycles inherent in nature (many indeed but broadly the mutuality of the animal and vegetable kingdoms) can be reproduced in your backyard/verandah, that water can be circulated, that food is produced for vegans (I am not) and others – the idea is earth-shattering.
Thank you
Thanks for your supportive comment David. I look forward to showing you the project in person.