Aquaponics/Hydroponics
WHAT IS HYDROPONICS?
HYDROPONICS is the method of growing plants without soil which isn’t necessarily a new practice but something that has been used for centuries. It is an intricate system that has been seen to actually be more efficient in producing crops than the traditional methods of growing plants in soil. Plants require two main things in order to flourish which are nutrients and water and thus the nutrients are provided within the water and delivered directly to the roots. As such, there is no need to have any sold in the growing system, instead, in a hydroponic growing system the plant is placed in a nutrient-mixed water solution which will provide it with the required nutrients. Benefits of using a hydroponic system include:
- Cheaper resource consumption
- Large spaces of land for growing plants not needed
- Harvestable plants are of higher quality
WHAT IS AQUAPONICS?
AQUAPONICS is another system of growing plants without any soil to support their root systems but there is a slight distinction.
Aquaponics is an innovative agricultural technique that combine hydroponics with aquaculture. The distinction between hydroponics and aquaponics is that instead of fertilizers being added to the water to provide nutrients, the fish that are grown simultaneously produce the required nutrients for the plants to grow. Fish waste contains toxic ammonia, which bacteria in the filters break down into nitrates and nitrates, which is food for the plant. As such, in this system, the plants and the fish have a symbiotic relationship which provides an efficient system that is circulatory in nature. The plants in turn filter the water naturally to provide a clean environment for the fish to live in.
New mini aquaponics system available!
Sustainable Organic Urban Lifestyle (SOUL) is proud to introduce its latest mini-aquaponics system which allow enthusiasts to learn and experiment with the growing of up to 30 plants and 15 fish on their balconies, patios, gardens and small urban spaces. The system utilises ebb & flow technology and comes complete with stand, aquarium, grow bed, filtration, water and air pumps. SOUL provides design, installation, operation, maintenance, training, coaching and consulting services in hydroponics and aquaponics farming to households, small businesses and large corporate clients. For further info contact:
New mini aquaponics system available!
Sustainable Organic Urban Lifestyle (SOUL) is proud to introduce its latest mini-aquaponics system which allow enthusiasts to learn and experiment with the growing of up to 30 plants and 15 fish on their balconies, patios, gardens and small urban spaces. The system utilises ebb & flow technology and comes complete with stand, aquarium, grow bed, filtration, water and air pumps. SOUL provides design, installation, operation, maintenance, training, coaching and consulting services in hydroponics and aquaponics farming to households, small businesses and large corporate clients. For further info contact sales@soulafrica.org.
Concept Principles
Recycling
The aim is to have a sustainable system that recycles waste to make it efficient and effective..
Saving Water
The system used ensures that water is saved and reused making the system more sustainable than traditional farming.
Use of Space
As the system does not require land or a lot of space to start, it makes it appropriate for urban settings and more accessible to those without the traditional resources such as land.
Benefits
Increased efficiency
Aquaponics and hydroponics systems use less water and fewer resources compared to traditional soil-based farming. These systems also require fewer inputs, such as fertilizers and pesticides, and can produce higher yields in a smaller area.
Controlled environment
In an aquaponics or hydroponics system, the grower has control over the temperature, humidity, and nutrient levels, which allows for more precise growing conditions. This can result in higher-quality produce and faster growth rates.
Reduced risk of pests and diseases
Because the plants are grown in a controlled environment, they are less likely to be affected by pests and diseases that are common in soil-based farming.
Ability to grow in urban areas
Aquaponics and hydroponics systems can be set up in urban areas where there is limited space for traditional farming, making them an attractive option for urban farmers.
Reduced environmental impact
Both aquaponics and hydroponics systems produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions and have a smaller environmental footprint compared to traditional soil-based farming.
Year-round production
Aquaponics and hydroponics systems can be used to grow plants year-round, regardless of the weather or growing season. This allows for a consistent and reliable source of produce.
