The combination of aquaculture and hydroponics creates a well integrated system for the growth of plants and fish. While plants get their source of food from fish waste, they in turn provide filtered water for the fish to thrive in.
If you’re getting into aquaponics, one of the first things you’ll need is a grow bed. Below are some products we believe are worthy of consideration if you’re looking to take that first step in creating an aquaponics system.
1. AquaBundance SpaceSaver Aquaponics Grow Bed
If you would like to save space the AquaBundance SpaceSaver Grow Bed will be ideal for you. It is highly attractive with a great Asian styling and is available in terracotta, stone, charcoal granite and light gray. You can grow 7 tomato plants or 25 basil plants using this grow bed.
Since it is made from tough PE plastic it is very durable. With a capacity of 7.5 cubic feet and a width of 28 inches it is the right size when you take it out of doorways. Handles have been fitted at the appropriate places so that you can lift and carry without any issue.
The material used in the production of the grow bed is food-safe and is covered with layer of UV protection. The tubing is made out of powder coated steel and the dry zone of the grow bed is marked with a lip located 1.5 inches below the top rim. Provisions have been made for extra plumbing fixtures as well.
Pros
- It is compact in size making it easy to move it through doorways.
- The tough furniture grade PVC material makes it durable.
- Being UV protected means that it will be able to stand the harsh sunlight without being damaged.
Cons
- On the small side in terms of total capacity.
2. Three Aquaponics – Hydroponics & Pond Grow Bed and Bio-Filter
It is possible to grow vegetables by yourself even if you do not have a green thumb with this Three Aquaponics package. It creates a large area of 14 square feet for a grow bed with 10 inches of water depth. It is extremely versatile and allows you to grow salad greens and vegetables as well as beautiful flowers. Indoor gardening could not be easier if you choose to go with this option.
The total dimensions of the grow beds are 48 x 42 x 12 inches and can create a 2700 GP flow.
Pros
- You can use a vast variety of plant bio mass with the water depth that it provides.
- Large grow feet area.
Cons
- Available for States East of the Mississippi only.
3. AquaBundance Aquaponics System
This is a Spacesaver package consisting of a grow bed, fish tank and rolling table. The main advantage of the system is its compact size which makes it easy to move around. You can place it indoors as well as outdoors.
The self aerating fish tank is also made out of PE plastic which is protected against the sun, and has a capacity of 60 gallons of water. Extra long vinyl tubing offers flexibility while placing the tank. The grip handles make it really easy to lift the tank with both hands.
The rolling table is partially welded and is made out of powder coated steel. You will find it easy to assemble thanks to the nuts and bolts that are included in the package. Well placed handles and strong casters help while moving it. You may need to purchase a hanging bar accessory if you would like to have hanging lights and plants supported with a trellis.
Additional items included with the package are a timer, digital tank thermometer and a 400 GPH pump. An illustrated instruction manual explains each and every detail.
Pros
- Compact in size.
- Meant for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Can be used throughout the year.
Cons
- This level of convenience comes with a substantial price tag.
4. AquaBundance Modular Easy-Reach 2 Media Bed Aquaponics System
This is a very space efficient system and saves you space while increasing convenience when you have your grow beds adjacent to each other or against a wall. The width has been designed such that it becomes very easy for you to reach out while taking care of your plants. You can start with 2 beds and increase the number of beds later using this 2-bed modular system.
You will get a total growing area of 15 square feet and a fish tank capacity of 200 gallons that will give you 40 fish. The grow beds and fish tank are made out of tough PE plastic with UV protection and contains drilled holes for accommodating all fittings.
The 130 gallon sump tank is also UV protected. Each grow bed has been provided with a media guard and an efficient drainage with an included bell siphon assembly. A continuous supply of oxygen is made possible with an oxygenation bar.
Other items that are included with your purchase are a book on aquaponic gardening, detailed instructions with illustrations, digital tank thermometer, medium cycling kit and an API master test kit.
Pros
- A great solution for saving space in greenhouses and basements.
- Well designed to maximize your reach, easy on the back.
- UV protected for use throughout the year.
Cons
- Price.
Conclusion
Each product has been designed to suit different requirements that aquaponics gardeners might have. The AquaBundance SpaceSaver Aquaponics Grow Bed is a great space saving option for the aquaponic gardener. The Three Aquaponics – Hydroponics & Pond Grow Bed and Bio-Filter is ideal for a expandable aquaponic filtration bed. For those who want a system that can be used indoors as well as outdoors without issues while moving, the AquaBundance Aquaponics System is the right choice. If you would like to start with 2 beds for a basement or greenhouse, you can do so easily with the AquaBundance Modular Easy-Reach 2 Media Bed Aquaponics System.