For aquaponics, fish waste is the sole source of plant nutrients. As incredible as this might seem, plants will survive on this supply of nitrogen with a properly maintained aquaponics system. The key is to develop in the system a healthy bacterial colony that transforms the toxic fish waste into harmless nitrates that are an outstanding fertiliser for the plants. The majority of bacterial colonies would be in the medium of the rising bed, mostly gravel.

The bacteria would require some time to colonise the medium in a newly developed aquaponics system. This is why it uses a method called 'cycling.' There are two ways to cycle the method-using fish right from the beginning or just bringing the fish in after the bacteria have developed themselves. It takes 4 to 6 weeks for the first process, while the latter is faster and can be completed in around 10 days. It is much better to go cycling without fish (using ammonia).

PH is an vital element in the system necessary to maintain a constant supply of plant nutrients. If this is not optimal, an accumulation of toxic materials will build up and the bacteria will stop nutrient generation. In addition, pH outside the range can make it more difficult for nutrients to be taken up by the plant roots which can damage the fish. Try to maintain your pH at around 6.7 to 7. Get commercial pH regulators to raise or decrease the pH if the pH is beyond the range. Instead, use vinegar to lower the pH and to increase the pH with calcium carbonate or baking soda.

Although some aquaponic farmers use nutrient supplements, supplements are never needed in a properly controlled system. Furthermore, you need to be very cautious if you use supplements, as some can harm the fish. The bacteria can provide more than enough nutrients for your plants as long as you keep the pH at 6.7 to 7, and the water well oxygenated.

Salt is the only material that it might be useful to incorporate. Salt is frequently applied at 1 to 2 ppt (parts per thousand; that is 1 kilo to 1000 litres of water) to Aquaponics systems. Adding salt enhances the fish's resilience to disease and infection, as it has a beneficial effect on the fish's mucus layer. It's necessary to keep the concentration below 2ppt and to use pure sea salt-not table salt-if you plan to add salt.

To discover how to boost your plant's growth and ensure the highest yields, refer to Aquaponics 4 You