Aquaponics

Back in September we embarked on a new project.  This time it was to have a sustainable way to grow vegetables in our back garden.  Thanks to a friend who has had many years of experience in Aquaponics we were able to get one up and running.  You can check out how it works on Rod's website https://www.aquaponicgardener.com.au/  However, in the meantime I will let our photos do the talking.

 

We needed to remove our old vegetable beds and then mark out the site for the Aquaponics.  We didn't have much success in growing veggies the traditional way due to critters and bugs enjoying them first. 

 

I had various tasks in the process and that included spray painting the tanks to keep the mildew at bay.

Simon preparing the frames to support the beds

  

Due to the tanks having chemicals in them previously we needed to do some vinegar washes over the courses of a week.

Islay in the midst of the construction project

 

More prep work

 

Finally planting can take place.  In the far tank we have fish.  In simple terms the fish water feeds the plants and the plant water then circulates back to the fish so closed loop system.

  

For the last few weeks we have been enjoying the fruits of our labour.  Different salads, beans, corn, herbs, tomatoes and cucumbers to name a few.  Our fish are growing well also so look forward to trying them in a couple of months.