Getting Started with NFT Aquaponics
If you are an indoor gardener or urban farmer, you may have already heard of aquaponics. Aquaponics is a sustainable method of growing plants and fish in a closed-loop system. The plant roots are submerged in nutrient-rich water, which is then filtered by fish waste. The filtered water is then recycled back to the fish tank. This system is beneficial for both the fish and plants as it provides clean water for the fish and nutrients for the plants.
One of the most popular methods of aquaponic gardening is the Nutrient Film Technique (NFT). In this system, plants grow in a shallow, sloping channel that is continuously flooded with nutrient-rich water. The water then flows back to the fish tank, providing a continuous cycle of nutrients.
Choosing the Best Plants for NFT Aquaponics
When it comes to choosing the best plants for NFT aquaponics, there are a few things to consider. First, you want to choose plants that are easy to grow and maintain. Second, you want to choose plants that are well-suited to hydroponic growing. Finally, you want to choose plants that are compatible with the fish in your aquaponic system.
Easy to Grow and Maintain Plants
Some of the easiest plants to grow in NFT aquaponics include:
- Lettuce
- Basil
- Mint
- Kale
- Chives
- Spinach
- Arugula
- Watercress
- Mustard greens
These plants require minimal maintenance and can be harvested regularly for a continuous supply of fresh produce.
Hydroponic-Friendly Plants
Plants that are well-suited to hydroponic growing are those that have a shallow root system and can thrive in a nutrient-rich environment. Some of the best hydroponic-friendly plants include:
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Cucumbers
- Strawberries
- Blueberries
- Swiss chard
- Bok choy
- Celery
These plants grow well in NFT aquaponics systems and produce high yields.
Fish-Compatible Plants
When choosing plants for your NFT aquaponics system, it’s important to consider the type of fish you have in your system. Some fish prefer cooler water temperatures, while others prefer warmer water. Additionally, some fish produce more waste than others, which means they require more plants to filter the water.
Some of the best fish-compatible plants for NFT aquaponics include:
- Duckweed
- Water hyacinth
- Water lettuce
- Azolla
- Watercress
- Mint
These plants are great for removing excess nutrients from the water and providing a healthy environment for your fish.
Conclusion
In conclusion, NFT aquaponics is a great way to grow plants and fish in a sustainable, closed-loop system. When choosing plants for your NFT aquaponics system, choose plants that are easy to grow and maintain, well-suited to hydroponic growing, and compatible with the fish in your system. By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to grow a variety of healthy, fresh produce for your indoor garden or urban farm.