Custom Client System

I'm pleased to report that I have just completed construction of my first custom aquaponic system for a client based in Little Compton, RI. The system is built from pine lumber and plywood and finished with six inch cedar siding, which will resist rot and weather to the same natural color as the deck.

Interested in a system of your own for either indoor or outdoor growing? Contact Patrick Roche at pjroche@live.com.

First custom built aquaponic system: 4' x 2' x 1' grow bed with 3' x 2' x 1.5' fish tank using an autosiphon

This system is compact and can easily fit on a deck or patio. If needed, the fish tank can even be placed partially under the grow bed to save space. The fish tank is covered with a cedar lattice frame to help reduce light exposure to prevent algae growth. The lattice has a hinge to allow for easy access and viewing of fish. A pump moves water into the grow bed and an autosiphon allows the water to flood the grow bed then completely drain back into the fish tank.

At four feet long by two feet wide, the grow bed may seem small; however, even a small space can produce an abundance of vegetables and herbs. Vine plants, like cucumbers and squash, can spread out from the grow bed and one can plant cooler weather crops, like lettuce and chard, underneath the canopy of taller plants such as tomatoes and peppers. Of course, larger systems are no problem, too! If desired, the system can be moved inside for the winter to continue growing year round.

The grow bed contains expanded shale which has several beneficial properties:

• Lightweight: easily supported by any decking and easy to transport
• Rounded edges: comfortable on your hands to work with
• Porous: high surface area to support nitrifying bacteria growth and retain moisture between flood and drain cycles
• Domestically mined from NY

The system will use goldfish, as it will initially operate only during the summer months. If located in a greenhouse and operated year round, one could raise food fish like Silver or Jade Perch or Tilapia.

A Client Tends to Her Aquaponic Garden

Interested in a system of your own for either indoor or outdoor growing? Contact Patrick Roche at pjroche@live.com.