I did get my aquaponic 29 gallon tank setup, but not without some major arm twisting and repurposing of some of my hydroponic equipment.
Here’s the story.
All I wanted for Christmas last year was an aquaponics set-up – as some of you may remember.
So Jerry went about salvaging things we had on hand – a 29-gallon fish tank, old hydroponic pots, clear storage containers – to set up a small aquaponic operation in the living room.
Tilapia Went Into The Aquaponic 29 Gallon Tank
We met a local couple who had a much larger operation once the tank was set-up and were able to purchase a dozen baby fish – or as they are officially called “fingerlings.”
Once the fish were in the tank, I started seeds of tomatoes and cucumbers in the pots and transplanted herbs from my AeroGarden that were outgrowing their home.
Our Aquaponic 29 Gallon Tank Was A Learning Experience
We have learned a lot as most gardeners do regardless of the gardening media they use – you can’t use small pumps – and forget about small tubing.
We have lost some plants – but others have thrived.
We have harvested tons of basil and parsley.
We have a gigantic tomato plant taking over the greenhouse – and honestly it is the largest tomato plant I have ever seen – and we even lost one fish along the way.
Aquaponics is about learning a new way of growing plants and in the process you get to raise your own fish to eat.
We have Tilapia in our tank – and maybe someday we will also get to raise catfish.
In the meantime, here is a short video of the fish in our tank.
It is easy to see how much they have grown from that cold December night when they came home to now.
Aquaponics and Hydroponics
Plunging Into Aquaponics
We took the challenge and decided to get into aquaponics. Growing fish and using the waste to fertilize vegetables seemed like a great idea.
Starting Seeds For An Aquaponic System
Aquaponic seed starting is really not much different than regular seed starting. You do use a different seed starting medium.
Hydroponic Gardening Advantages: Grow More Food In Less Space Using Environmentally Friendly Methods
Grow more food in less space using environmentally friendly practices when you learn about the advantages of hydroponic gardening.
Go Green With Hydroponics
Gardeners and farmers often seek ways to be environmentally friendly. One way to achieve this goal is to go green with hydroponics.
Environmental Advantages of Hydroponics: Green Gardening Products That Combat Global Warming
Learn about the various environmental advantages of hydroponics and the green gardening products for that combat global warming.
The Right Way To Get Started In Hydroponics
Grow lights are an important part of hydroponic gardening. In order to be successful getting started the right way is important.
