How to Grow Strawberries in Aquaponics Systems

Strawberries are an ideal crop for aquaponics systems because of their small size, adaptability, and high demand. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast or an aquaponics beginner, growing strawberries in an aquaponics setup can be rewarding, both in flavor and in the satisfaction of cultivating your own food. 

In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know to start growing strawberries in an aquaponics system, from choosing the right setup and fish to maintaining ideal growing conditions and troubleshooting common challenges. Let’s dive into the world of strawberry aquaponics and discover how to harvest sweet, vibrant berries year-round!

Understanding Aquaponics and Its Suitability for Strawberries

In an aquaponics system, fish and plants live in a carefully balanced ecosystem that mimics nature. Fish are raised in a tank where they produce waste, which would typically need to be filtered out to keep the water clean. However, in an aquaponics system, this nutrient-rich water is pumped from the fish tank to the plants, providing them with a natural source of nutrients for growth. As plants absorb these nutrients, they also help purify the water, which is then recirculated back to the fish tank. This continuous cycle supports both the fish and the plants, creating a self-sustaining, efficient system.

• Advantages of Growing Strawberries in Aquaponics

Strawberries are particularly well-suited to aquaponics for several reasons, and this method offers some unique benefits:

1. Faster Growth

The nutrient-rich water in an aquaponics system allows strawberries to grow more quickly than in soil. 

2.Reduced Water Use

Aquaponics systems typically use 90% less water than conventional gardening, making it an environmentally friendly choice for growing water-intensive plants like strawberries.

3. Fewer Pesticides and Healthier Plants

The controlled environment of an aquaponics system reduces the likelihood of pests and diseases, so strawberries can often be grown without the use of pesticides. Additionally, because aquaponics systems are closed, there is less risk of contamination from outside sources. The result is healthier plants that produce cleaner, more organic strawberries without harmful chemicals.

Factors to Consider for Growing Strawberry in Aquaponics

While aquaponics offers significant benefits, strawberries have specific needs that should be carefully managed in an aquaponics setup to ensure optimal growth:

1.Water Temperature

Strawberries prefer moderate temperatures, with an ideal water temperature range between 70-75°F (21-24°C). Maintaining this range can be especially important in colder or warmer climates, where heaters or chillers might be necessary to stabilize water conditions. If the water temperature fluctuates too much, it can stress both the fish and the strawberry plants, impacting their growth and productivity.

2.pH Balance

Strawberries thrive in slightly acidic to neutral conditions, with a pH range of around 5.5-6.5. To maintain this pH balance, it’s important to test the water regularly and adjust as needed using safe, fish-friendly buffers. An imbalanced pH can affect nutrient absorption for plants and cause stress for fish, so monitoring pH is essential.

3.Light Requirements

Strawberries need plenty of light for fruit production, ideally 8–12 hours of light each day. For outdoor systems, natural sunlight may be sufficient, but for indoor systems, supplemental LED grow lights are often necessary. Choosing full-spectrum lights or those designed specifically for fruiting plants will ensure the plants receive the optimal light quality for healthy growth and fruiting. Insufficient light can result in leggy plants with fewer flowers and reduced yields, so proper lighting is key for successful strawberry aquaponics.

What Strawberry Variety is the Best for Aquaponics Systems?

Growing strawberries in your aquaponics garden starts with one question - what variety is the best? The answer to this question will depend on your personal preference, taste, and availability. That being said, the strawberry varieties that are great for aquaponics systems are the following:

• Albion: The Albion is a new strawberry variety that was developed in California. These quick-growing sweet and juicy berries have a bright red color and classical conical strawberry shape. Albion strawberry varieties have an average height of 12 inches.
• Seascape: This perennial strawberry variety grows into medium to large and is sweeter than most strawberry varieties. The seascape strawberry can reach its maximum height of 18 inches. 
• Tribute: The tribute variety fruits are medium to large and have a glossy red color and classic fruity taste. This strawberry variety is a day-neutral species and grows to at least 12 inches. 
• Ozark Beauty: The ozark beauty strawberry grows well in a cooler climate and tastes extra-sweet. This variety is a day-neutral variety and can grow up to 12 inches. 

Choosing the Right Aquaponics System for Growing Strawberries

Selecting the right aquaponics system is crucial for successfully growing strawberries. Strawberries have specific needs that align well with certain types of aquaponics systems, so understanding these systems will help you choose one that best supports healthy strawberry growth, efficient space usage, and ease of maintenance.

Types of Systems Best Suited for Strawberries

1. Media Bed System

The media bed system is one of the most common and versatile types of aquaponics systems. It involves planting crops in a bed filled with grow media, such as expanded clay pellets, gravel, or lava rock.

Pros for Strawberries:

• Good Nutrient Retention: The media holds nutrients well, making it easy for strawberries to access the nutrients they need.
• Root Support: The media provides stability for strawberry plants, which have delicate root systems that benefit from a supportive growing medium.
• Simple Design: Media beds are relatively easy to set up and maintain, making them a good choice for beginners.

Cons for Strawberries:

• Limited Space Efficiency: Media beds can require more horizontal space than other systems, which may be a drawback if space is limited.
• Maintenance: The media can occasionally clog and may require occasional cleaning, especially in systems with fine substrates.
• Inconsistent Watering for Some Plants: If not carefully managed, water levels can vary, which may impact the growth of more water-sensitive plants, though strawberries generally adapt well.

2. Nutrient Film Technique (NFT)

The NFT system involves a shallow, continuous flow of nutrient-rich water circulating through narrow channels or tubes where plants are placed. The strawberry plants are held in net pots that allow their roots to dangle into the stream of nutrient-rich water.

Pros for Strawberries:

• Efficient Use of Space: NFT systems are typically narrow and can be vertically stacked, making them ideal for those with limited space.
• Controlled Nutrient Access: Since the water flows continuously, strawberries have steady access to nutrients and oxygen without being waterlogged.
• Ease of Harvest: Plants in NFT systems are easier to access, making strawberry harvesting simpler and less labor-intensive.

Cons for Strawberries:

• Root Health Sensitivity: The shallow flow of water requires careful monitoring, as the roots can dry out if water flow is disrupted or oxygen levels are low.
• Temperature Sensitivity: NFT systems may be more affected by ambient temperature, so if grown indoors, strawberries in NFT systems might require additional temperature control.
• Maintenance of Channels: The narrow channels can become clogged or algae-ridden, requiring regular cleaning to ensure water flow.

3. Raft System or Deep Water Culture (DWC)

In a raft system, plants float on rafts over a tank filled with nutrient-rich water. The roots of the strawberry plants dangle directly into the water, which is aerated to maintain oxygen levels.

Pros for Strawberries:

• High Nutrient Availability: Since the roots are constantly submerged, strawberry plants have consistent access to nutrients, which can support faster growth.
• Suitable for Larger Scale: DWC systems are often easier to scale, making them a good option for those looking to grow a larger quantity of strawberries.
• Low Maintenance: There are fewer moving parts in DWC systems, reducing the risk of mechanical failures and the need for frequent adjustments.

Cons for Strawberries:

• Root Oxygenation Needs: Adequate aeration is crucial in DWC systems to prevent root rot; strawberries are susceptible to this if oxygen levels are too low.
• Potential for Water Temperature Fluctuations: Since water is the primary growing medium, any temperature shifts in the tank can directly impact the roots, so temperature control may be needed in colder or warmer climates.
• Bulky Design: DWC systems require a larger water tank, which can be more space-intensive than other systems, particularly if not stacked vertically.

When choosing a system for strawberries, consider these key factors:

1. Space:

If you have limited horizontal space, an NFT system may be the best option, as it can be stacked vertically to maximize growing area. Raft systems are better suited for larger spaces or outdoor setups, while media bed systems require moderate horizontal space but provide a stable, accessible growing environment.

2. Budget:

Media bed systems are typically more affordable to set up, as they don’t require as many pumps or aeration devices. NFT systems can be more expensive due to the need for multiple tubes, pumps, and possibly grow lights in indoor settings.

3. Maintenance Needs:

Consider how much maintenance you’re willing to perform. Media beds require periodic cleaning, NFT systems need regular monitoring for water flow and clogging, and raft systems demand careful aeration. For a low-maintenance setup,the raft might be preferable if you can manage the space, whereas media beds might be easier for smaller systems.

Best Fish Species for Strawberry-Friendly Systems

When selecting fish for a strawberry-friendly aquaponics system, it’s important to choose species that are hardy, adaptable to the environmental conditions needed for strawberry growth, and compatible with the size and type of system you have. Here are three popular fish choices:

1. Tilapia

Tilapia is one of the most common fish species used in aquaponics due to its adaptability and resilience. Tilapia are hardy fish that can tolerate a wide range of water conditions, including slight fluctuations in temperature and pH.

2. Goldfish

Goldfish are another popular option, especially for smaller or indoor aquaponics systems. Known for their hardiness, goldfish are relatively inexpensive and well-suited to beginners.

3. Koi

Koiare large, decorative fish known for their vibrant colors and hardy nature. They are commonly used in larger aquaponics systems, as they require more space due to their size.

Tips on Keeping a Balanced Ecosystem for Both Fish and Strawberries

Maintaining a healthy aquaponics system requires balancing the needs of both fish and plants. Here are some tips to keep your ecosystem stable and productive:

1. Monitor Water Quality Regularly

• Test Parameters: Regularly test for pH, ammonia, nitrites, nitrates, and dissolved oxygen levels. Maintaining the ideal pH range (around 6.5-7.0) and low levels of ammonia and nitrites is essential for both fish health and plant nutrient availability.
• Ammonia and Nitrite Control: Fish produce ammonia, which can become toxic if it accumulates. Beneficial bacteria convert it to nitrates, but overfeeding the fish or having too many fish can lead to dangerous spikes in ammonia and nitrite levels. Maintain a balanced fish-to-plant ratio to prevent this.

2. Manage Temperature and Light

• Temperature Control: Ensure the water temperature remains within a range suitable for both the fish and strawberries. Use heaters or chillers if necessary, especially in extreme climates, to maintain a stable environment.
• Light for Plants: Ensure strawberries receive adequate light, especially in indoor setups. Place your system in a sunny location or use full-spectrum grow lights to support the plants’ light needs without disrupting the fish’s natural cycle.

3. Maintain a Balanced Fish-to-Plant Ratio

• A balanced fish-to-plant ratio is key to ensuring the plants receive enough nutrients without overwhelming the system. As a general guideline, one adult tilapia can support about 10-15 strawberry plants. Adjust this ratio based on the specific nutrient needs of strawberries and the type of fish used.
• If your plants show signs of nutrient deficiency (e.g., yellowing leaves or poor growth), consider adjusting the fish-to-plant ratio or adding a natural, fish-safe supplement.

4. Feed Fish Appropriately

• Feed fish the correct type and amount of food to ensure they remain healthy and produce enough waste. Avoid overfeeding, as leftover food can lead to ammonia spikes and water quality issues.
• Consider using organic or aquaponics-specific fish food to avoid contaminants or additives that might disrupt the ecosystem.

5. Introduce Beneficial Bacteria

• Beneficial bacteria are essential for converting ammonia into plant-usable nitrates. If setting up a new system, consider “cycling” the system to establish a healthy bacteria colony before introducing strawberries and fish. You can use a bacterial starter culture to speed up this process.

Planting and Caring for Strawberries in Aquaponics

Once you’ve set up your aquaponics system and selected strawberry varieties well-suited for continuous fruiting, the next steps are planting, supporting, and caring for your strawberries to ensure healthy growth and high yield. The controlled environment of aquaponics allows for efficient nutrient delivery, but strawberries still require specific care to reach their full potential.

Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Strawberry Seedlings

1. Prepare the Seedlings

• Begin with healthy strawberry seedlings or transplants rather than seeds, as this accelerates the growing process and allows for earlier fruit production.
• Gently remove any excess soil from the roots if the seedlings were started in soil. This helps prevent soil-borne pathogens from entering the system.

2. Prepare the Grow Bed or Planting Medium

Depending on your aquaponics setup (e.g., media bed, NFT, or DWC), the planting process will vary:

• Media Bed: If using a media bed, make a small hole in the grow media (e.g., expanded clay pellets or gravel) that is just large enough to accommodate the roots of the plant.
• NFT or DWC Systems: Place the seedlings in net pots with a lightweight medium (such as hydroton or coco coir) to support the roots. Ensure the crown (where the stems meet the roots) is above the medium to prevent rot.

3. Plant the Seedlings

• Place each seedling in the prepared hole or net pot, making sure the crown remains above the medium. Burying the crown can lead to root and crown rot, which strawberries are particularly prone to.
• If using a media bed, gently cover the roots with grow media, but avoid pressing down too firmly, as strawberry roots need airflow for healthy growth.

4. Positioning the Seedlings

• Space the strawberry plants approximately 8-12 inches apart to give them room to spread as they grow. Good airflow between plants helps reduce the risk of fungal infections.
• Ensure that each plant is positioned to receive sufficient light (8-12 hours daily) for flowering and fruiting.

Maintenance Tips

Once your strawberries are planted, routine maintenance will help ensure a healthy crop. Key tasks include monitoring for pests and diseases, checking nutrient levels, and ensuring effective pollination.

Monitoring for Pests and Diseases

• Check Leaves and Fruits Regularly: Inspect the undersides of leaves, stems, and developing fruits for signs of common pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. If you notice any pests, remove them manually or use natural deterrents like neem oil sprays (fish-safe if applied carefully).
• Prevent and Address Fungal Diseases: Strawberries are prone to fungal issues, particularly powdery mildew. Ensure good airflow around plants by spacing them appropriately, removing dead or yellowing leaves, and keeping the system clean.
• Control Humidity: High humidity can encourage mold and mildew growth. Indoors, use a fan to promote air circulation and keep humidity levels balanced.

Checking Nutrient Levels and System Health

• Test Water Quality Regularly: Use a test kit to check ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and pH levels. Strawberries generally prefer a slightly acidic pH (5.5-6.5), while fish and beneficial bacteria prefer a range closer to 6.8-7.0, so monitor closely and adjust gradually if needed.
• Observe Nutrient Needs: Strawberry plants are nutrient-demanding, particularly during flowering and fruiting stages. Monitor nitrate levels to ensure a steady nutrient supply, and consider supplementing with natural, fish-safe sources of potassium or calcium if deficiencies occur.
• Adjust Fish Feeding as Needed: Since fish waste provides most nutrients, monitor their feeding and health. Overfeeding can lead to ammonia spikes, while underfeeding may lead to nutrient deficiencies.

Pollination Methods in an Indoor System

In outdoor systems, bees and other pollinators often handle pollination naturally. However, in indoor or fully enclosed systems, manual pollination may be necessary to encourage fruiting.

• Manual Pollination: Use a small, soft paintbrush or cotton swab to gently brush the center of each flower, transferring pollen from one flower to another. This mimics the effect of bees and encourages fruit set.
• Electric Pollinators: Alternatively, you can use an electric toothbrush or a small, battery-operated pollinator designed for plants. Hold the device near the base of each flower to vibrate the pollen, facilitating pollination.
• Fans and Airflow: Increasing airflow around your plants with a fan can help circulate pollen, but manual pollination is usually more effective.

Harvesting and Storing Your Strawberries

Harvesting strawberries at the right time and storing them properly are key to enjoying their delicious flavor and nutritional benefits. Knowing when to pick your strawberries and how to handle them can significantly affect their quality and shelf life.

Signs That Strawberries Are Ready for Harvest

1. Color Change

Strawberries should be a vibrant red color when ripe, indicating they have developed their full flavor and sweetness. Look for an even coloration across the entire fruit. If the berries are still partially green or have white tips, they need more time to ripen.

2. Size

Ripe strawberries will generally reach a size appropriate for their variety. While size may vary among types, a good rule of thumb is that larger berries are more likely to be ready for harvest. However, size alone is not the only indicator—color is crucial.

3. Firmness

Gently squeeze the berry; ripe strawberries should feel firm but slightly soft to the touch. If they feel hard, they likely need more time to ripen. Overripe strawberries may feel mushy or overly soft.

4. Sweet Aroma

A ripe strawberry will emit a sweet, fragrant aroma. If you can smell the strawberries from a distance, they are likely ready for harvest. This scent is an excellent indicator of ripeness and flavor development.

5. Timing

Harvest strawberries in the morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler, as this helps preserve their freshness. Avoid picking in the heat of the day to reduce stress on the plants and maintain the quality of the fruit.

Proper Techniques for Harvesting Without Damaging Plants

1. Use Clean, Sharp Tools

To minimize damage to both the plants and the strawberries, use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears for harvesting. This reduces the risk of tearing the plant and helps maintain a clean cut on the fruit stems.

2. Hold the Stem, Not the Fruit

When harvesting, gently hold the strawberry with one hand and cut the stem with the other, leaving a small portion of the stem attached to the berry (about 1 inch). This helps protect the berry and can extend its shelf life.

3. Be Gentle

Handle the berries carefully to avoid bruising. Strawberries are delicate, and rough handling can lead to damage, which can result in faster spoilage. Place harvested strawberries gently into a container lined with soft material, such as a cloth or paper towel.

4. Avoid Pulling

Do not pull the strawberry off the plant; this can damage the plant and result in tearing. Instead, cut the stem cleanly, which promotes healthy regrowth and future production.

5. Regular Harvesting

Check the plants every few days during the growing season to ensure you harvest ripe strawberries promptly. Regular harvesting encourages the plant to produce more fruit and reduces the risk of overripe strawberries attracting pests.

Conclusion

Growing strawberries in an aquaponics system offers a unique and sustainable way to enjoy this delicious fruit while minimizing environmental impact. By understanding the intricacies of aquaponics, selecting the right varieties, and addressing common challenges, you can cultivate a thriving strawberry garden that yields flavorful fruits throughout the season.

Now that you have the knowledge and tools to start your own strawberry aquaponics adventure, why not take the plunge? Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner looking for a new challenge, creating your own aquaponics system can be a rewarding experience. Gather your supplies, choose your system, and get planting!