Anna's dreaming...

[Anna]

Hi, my name is Anna and I've been interested in Aquaponics for a while. I don't have a system yet but I want to start small. Could you give me a few pointers to get me going? I have an old laundry tub (concrete) that I thought would make a good fish tank, but I haven't sourced grow beds yet.

The sysyem will need to be outside (can't afford a greenhouse - Murray, you suggest this could be a problem because of pests?!) but I don't have much space. Any suggstiuons appreciated!

Anna

[Murray]

Hi Anna,
Welcome to the Forum
A greenhouse or similar is not really necessary but very desirable. It helps to make everything work just that much better.
Just make do with what you have to start with. It is important to make a start.
The concrete tubs will be great.
Try and get hold of an old bath tub for the grow bed. Bath tubs make great grow beds.
Actually my greenhouse has no walls and I do not have any pests at all in my tomatoes. Can't say the same for the Bok Choi.
I find that cucumbers suffer from mould attack but this can be kept in check by spraying the cucumber vine with milk.
I have also found that Seasol sprayed on the leaves of the Bok Choy kills the grubs. The effect does not last for more than a couple of days, but it works.
A visitor who came to see my system put me on to that little gem. (spraying with Seasol) I have learned heaps from many of the wonderful people who come here to see my system.
There are ways of controlling the pests without using dangerous chemicals.
Murray

[Anna]

Thanks Murray.

A question re the seasol - is it OK for the fish? I wouldn't want to kill anything off at this early stge!!

[Murray]

Seasol, mixed according to the directions is fine.
Does not bother the fish at all. Make sure it is Seasol.
I sprayed some beds with Aquasol once....I thought "Seasol - Aquasol....sounds much the same.....no..no..no.....Was not good.
Fish started protesting and swimming upside own. Not good....Not good....
Murray