20 February 2023

We already discussed why Aquaponics is considered a sustainable method of growing plants and vegetables in a previous post. The waste produced by the fish is broken down by bacteria and converted into nutrients that are used by the plants. This symbiotic relationship not only allows for the efficient use of resources, but also creates a closed-loop system that reduces the need for external inputs, such as fertilizer or pesticides.

One of the key benefits of aquaponics is the ability to grow a wide variety of plants and vegetables. However, not all plants are well-suited to this method of cultivation. Some plants, such as root vegetables, require a lot of space and may not be practical to grow in an aquaponic system. Other plants, such as those with a high water or nutrient requirement, may not thrive in the limited environment of an aquaponic system.

Unsplash

Here are some plants and vegetables that are particularly well-suited to aquaponics:

  • Leafy Greens: Lettuce, spinach, and other leafy greens are ideal for aquaponics because they have a low water and nutrient requirement and can be grown in a relatively small space. They also have a short growth cycle, making them ideal for frequent harvests.
  • Herbs: Herbs such as basil, mint, and cilantro are well-suited to aquaponics because they have a low water requirement and can be grown in a small space. They also have a high value, making them a great choice for commercial aquaponic operations.
  • Tomatoes: Tomatoes are a popular choice for aquaponics because they are relatively easy to grow and have a high yield. They do require a lot of space and a larger water and nutrient requirement than leafy greens, but they are still a good choice for aquaponic systems.
  • Peppers: Peppers are another popular choice for aquaponics. They have a similar water and nutrient requirement to tomatoes and can be grown in a similar space. They also have a high yield, making them a great choice for commercial aquaponic operations.

Unsplash

It is important to note that different plants have different requirements, and the best plants for your aquaponic system will depend on the specific conditions of your system, including the size of your setup, the type of fish you are raising, and the temperature and pH of your water. It is always best to do your own research and consult with experts before setting up your aquaponic system.

In summary, aquaponics is a sustainable method of growing plants and vegetables by combining aquaculture and hydroponics. Leafy greens, herbs, tomatoes, peppers and even fishes are some of the plants, vegetables and animals that are well-suited to aquaponics. It is important to do your own research and consult with experts before setting up an aquaponic system to ensure that the plants you choose are suitable for the specific conditions of your system.

And you, which plant do you think is more interesting than the others for Aquaponic cultivation? Let us know in the comments and if you want to find out more about how Aquaponics interacts with the h-ALO Project read here:

Sustainability: the Aquaponics case

When fishes and plants put up a Revolution: Aquaponics

Everything You Need to Know About: Acquaponics