I’m O’Fishally Obsessed With Aquaponics

In May I had the amazing opportunity to participate in an Aquaponics Workshop at Eden Gardens Jax a 120 acre Eco-farm in Jacksonville, FL. I love Eden Garden's because they are on a mission to change the face of hunger and poverty around the world and right here in Jacksonville! The leader of the workshop is Tim (the owner of Eden Gardens Jax) who is so knowledgable about all things farm but especially Aquaponics! He has built two thriving aquaponics greenhouses and plans to build many more. 

Something really neat about Tim is that he goes on mission trips to starving countries and communities to teach them how to build these systems. He goes with nothing, no premade aquaponics systems or water containers, nothing! He has the people of the community collect all the supplies that they would need from things they would have in their village. Then Tim helps them make their Aquaponics system with whatever they've collected and have access to, that way when Tim is not there, they will have the tools and parts they need to trouble shoot and fix their system! 

So What is Aquaponics?

Aquaponics is a form of gardening that combines raising fish in tanks (aqua) with soil less plants (hydroponics). In Aquaponics, the nutrient rich water from raising fish provides a natural fertilizer to the plants and the plants help to purify the water for the fish. 

The Top 10 Things I Learned About Aquaponics 

1. You don't need a lot of space for an Aquaponics system

2. I learned how to take apart and rebuild an Aquaponics system (such valuable knowledge) 

3. I learned about different species of Tilapia. We'll be going with a Blue Tilapia. Tilapia catch a bad rap because they're usually farmed and not well taken care of, but you can raise them super clean organic! 

4. The fish's poop in the water breaks down into exactly what the plants need to grow without any additives 

5. Aquaponics is a clean way to provide premium quality fish and vegetables for you and your family 

6. I learned about growing with floating rafts or you can use a rock system

7. Your system can be scaled to ANY size. 

8. You don't need a lot of money to get started, all you need is multiple containers          that can hold water and some creativity! There are so many different kinds of systems that can be made out of basic everyday materials. 

9. The systems are simple, 10-12 years old can run them effectively! 

10. Lastly I learned about a really cool backyard system that I can't wait to share with ya'll soon! 

Aquaponics Q & A

Q: Is Aquaponics something I can do to feed my family and make it profitable? 
       A: The answer is YES! You can absolutely provide enough fish and vegetables to provide for your family and make a profit! 

Q: What can I grow using Aquaponics? 
        A: Tomatoes, Leafy Lettuce, Watercress, Peppers, Cucumbers, Cauliflower, and Cabbage are some of the most popular choices. 

Q: Does an Aquaponics garden need sunlight?
        A. Yes you will still need sunlight for your plants and your fish. Without some                   distinction between light and dark the fish may become lethargic, become ill and stop eating. 

Q: What are the rafts used for? 
         A. Floating Grow Rafts are the structures used to float the plants on the surface of the water, the plants are placed on these rafts allowing their roots to dangle in the water. 

Q: What is the best fish to use for Aquaponics? 
         A. Tilapia, because they can easily adapt to different environments and even withstand less than ideal water conditions. They are resistant to manyparasites and pathogens. Tilapia are a hardy fish and a great option for Aquaponics. 

Q: Will I need to change the water in my Aquaponics system? 
         A. In a balanced aquaponics system, no you shouldn't have to! You will need to add water as the plants use it and evaporation happens, but the system is pretty much self cleaning! 

Q: What do you feed your fish? 
          A. You'll want to use a combinations of worms, brine shrimp, and insects to feed your fish. Live food is the best source of nutrition because they are rich in protein and other essential nutrients. 
 

I’m so excited to learn more about Aquaponics as we dive into making our own system for the farm! Make sure to stay tuned here!