Whenever we mention the idea of gardening or growing any type of plants in our backyards the image that comes to mind is a plot of soil dedicated to growing vegetables and other plants. Not many individuals are aware of aqauponics gardening which is an alternative to conventional soil based growing.
In a conventional garden the needs of your plants are met by the soil, the sun, you tending the soil to rid it of weeds, you tending the plants by watering and applying fertilizer if needed. In a aquaponics gardening system there are three main components:
The water source which is usually a holding tank of some sort.
The fish that are cared for in the water tank.
The growing beds for the plants.
The fish's waste is deposited in the water which is pumped into the plant growing bed which feeds the plants and at the same time is filtered before it returns to the fish holding tank where the cycle is repeated. If this sounds fairly simple and easy; it is. The aquaponics gardening system can be very simple or extremely complex if it is used on a commercial scale.
Like the commercial systems an aquaponics gardening system at home can be complex as well, it depends on what your gardening goals are which will determine its design and complexity.
Regardless of the size the benefits are excellent because you have complete control of the growing process and therefore the quantity and quality of your plants. Your system might be as simple as a small unit for growing herbs or as complex as several units designed to feed a large family. What a great way to provide organic fresh vegetables year round.
The best place to start if you are considering aqauponics gardening is to invest in a guide that will provide the necessary information and guidelines to get you started. A good guide will be your road map to having a successful and safe garden!