5 Keys to Build a Successful Aquaponics System

An aquaponics system can be very easy to set up and to operate. But there are some key requirements that you will need in your system if you decide to set one up in your home. Here are five components that will be important in making sure your aquaponics system is productive.

5 Keys for a Successful Aquaponics System:

1. Choose An Appropriate Location. You will need a location that gets plenty of light. Either a sunny location or with artificial light. If your system is indoors, a large sunny window, or even better, a sun room makes a great place. When outdoors, the shady side of a building or trees might inhibit growth. Full sun is best, unless you live in an area with extreme heat, then afternoon shading may be welcome. Choose a place where you can maintain proper temperatures. This is where indoors or in a greenhouse has its advantages. Avoid areas where chemical substance may be present. And if outdoors, think about protection from wildlife that could be a problem, like raccoons.
2. Make Sure The Water Is Well Oxygenated. In order for an aquaponics system to work, the water must have a good supply of oxygen. This can come from an air pump and air stone or there are simple designs that allow the water circulation system to absorb oxygen. Without oxygen, the fish will die just the same as any other animal. Also the plant roots and the bacteria that convert fish wastes into fertilizer also need oxygen. It is far better to have more oxygenation than you need, that not enough. You can't have too much oxygen in the water.
3. Choose The Right Fish For Your Location. Tilapia are a common choice for aquaponics but there are many other types of fish that will also do well. In some areas, tilapia and other species have been banned. So check with local regulations to make sure the fish you choose will be legal. Some fish are temperature sensitive. Make sure you will choose a fish appropriate for the water temperatures that you will be able to maintain. In an area with cold winters, tilapia may not be a good choice for outdoors unless you can keep the water heated.
4. Positioning Your Grow Bed. You will do yourself a great favor by positioning your grow bed at a comfortable working level. For most people this will be around waist level. This is one of the advantages over growing crops in the soil. No bending over and working on the ground.
5. Adding Additives To The System. Although this type of system will mostly take care of itself, as far as nutrients, there are times when you may have to add some supplemental nutrients. If the plants start to show signs of deficiencies, you may have to add calcium, potassium or iron. This is more likely in a new system that hasn't fully matured yet.

Aquaponics system is a very simple way of producing fresh organic food. You can produce vegetables and fish with less work than growing plants in the ground. Paying attention to the details above will help ensure your success.Get an aquaponics guide that will teach you everything you will need to know to get your aquaponics system set up and producing. The step by step guide will walk you through the simple process of setting your system up and make you an expert at producing all the fresh organic food you can eat.