Inspiring Aquaponics Designs You Can Do-It-Yourself

Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a curious beginner, aquaponics can be an exciting and rewarding project. In this blog, we'll explore a variety of inspiring do-it-yourself aquaponics designs that cater to different needs and spaces. From small indoor setups to larger backyard systems, these designs will help you start your own aquaponic garden and enjoy the benefits of this sustainable practice. Let's dive in and discover how you can create your own thriving aquaponics system!

Small-Scale Indoor Aquaponics Systems

A. Mason Jar Aquaponics

Mason jar aquaponics is a simple and accessible way to start with aquaponics, perfect for beginners and small spaces like apartments or classrooms. Here's how to get started.

Materials Needed:

• A mason jar (quart size or larger)
• Betta fish or small goldfish
• Small aquarium air pump
• Air tubing and air stone
• Net pot (small size that fits in the mason jar opening)
• Grow media (such as hydroton or clay pebbles)
• Aquatic plants or herbs (basil, mint, lettuce, etc.)
• Fish food

Step-by-Step Setup Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mason Jar: Clean the mason jar thoroughly to ensure no contaminants are present.
2. Add the Fish: Fill the mason jar with dechlorinated water and introduce your fish. Let the fish acclimate to the new environment.
3. Install the Air Pump: Attach the air tubing to the air pump and air stone. Place the air stone in the bottom of the jar to provide oxygen for the fish.
4. Set Up the Net Pot: Fill the net pot with the growing medium and place your chosen plant or herb seedling in it.
5. Position the Net Pot: Place the net pot in the mouth of the mason jar so that the roots of the plant are submerged in the water.
6. Add Fish Food: Feed the fish regularly, and as they produce waste, the nutrients will be absorbed by the plant roots.
7. Monitor and Maintain: Check water levels, pH, and fish health regularly. Ensure the air pump is functioning properly to keep the water oxygenated.

 

B. Desktop Aquaponics Garden

A desktop aquaponics garden is a slightly larger setup that can support a variety of herbs and small plants. It’s ideal for kitchen countertops, desks, or small indoor spaces.

Ideal for Herbs and Small Plants:

• Common choices include basil, mint, parsley, cilantro, and lettuce. These plants grow well in the nutrient-rich water provided by an aquaponics system.

Building Instructions and Maintenance Tips:

1. Materials Needed:

• Small aquarium or fish tank (5-10 gallons)
• Small water pump
• Tubing and fittings
• Grow bed (a shallow container that fits on top of the fish tank)
• Growing medium (hydroton, gravel, or clay pebbles)
• Herbs or small plant seedlings
• Fish (betta fish, small goldfish, or guppies)
• Fish food

2. Step-by-Step Setup Instructions:

• Prepare the Aquarium: Clean the aquarium thoroughly and fill it with dechlorinated water. Introduce the fish and let them acclimate.
• Install the Water Pump: Place the water pump in the fish tank and connect it to the tubing. The tubing will carry water from the fish tank to the grow bed.
• Set Up the Grow Bed: Fill the grow bed with the growing medium. Ensure the bed is securely positioned on top of the fish tank.
• Plant the Seedlings: Plant your chosen herbs or small plants in the growing medium. Make sure the roots can access the water.
• Connect the Plumbing: Run the tubing from the water pump to the grow bed, ensuring water will flow evenly to all plants. Install a drain pipe to return the filtered water back to the fish tank.
• Start the System: Turn on the water pump and check for proper water flow. Adjust the pump settings if necessary to ensure a steady flow of water through the grow bed and back to the fish tank.
• Monitor and Maintain: Regularly check the water levels, pH, and nutrient levels. Feed the fish and observe both plant and fish health. Clean the pump and tubing as needed to prevent clogs.

Maintenance Tips:

• Water Quality: Maintain proper pH levels (6.8-7.2) and regularly check for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels to ensure a healthy environment for both fish and plants.
• Lighting: Ensure your plants receive adequate light. If natural light is insufficient, consider using grow lights.
• Fish Health: Monitor fish behavior and health. A healthy fish produces waste that provides essential nutrients for your plants.
• Plant Care: Prune and harvest plants regularly to encourage healthy growth and prevent overcrowding.

By starting with small-scale indoor aquaponics systems like mason jar aquaponics or a tabletop garden, you can enjoy fresh herbs and small plants year-round while gaining valuable experience in aquaponics. These setups are perfect for beginners and can be easily expanded as you become more confident in managing an aquaponics system.

Medium-Sized Backyard Aquaponics

A. IBC Tote Aquaponics System

IBC (Intermediate Bulk Container) totes are large, sturdy containers commonly used for storing and transporting liquids. They are a popular choice for medium-sized backyard aquaponics systems due to their durability, size, and availability.

The benefits of using IBC totes in aquaponics:

• Durability: Made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), IBC totes are designed to withstand harsh conditions and last for years.
• Size: Typically holding around 275-330 gallons, IBC totes provide ample space for fish and a large surface area for plant growth.
• Availability and Cost: IBC totes can often be sourced from industrial suppliers or second-hand markets, making them an affordable option for backyard aquaponics.

Step-by-step guide on converting an IBC Tote into an aquaponics system:

1. Materials Needed:

• IBC tote (275-330 gallons)
• Saw or reciprocating saw
• Water pump
• Plumbing fittings and PVC pipes
• Grow bed medium (hydroton, gravel, or clay pebbles)
• Fish (tilapia, goldfish, catfish, etc.)
• Plant seedlings or seeds
• Drill and hole saw
• Liner for the grow bed (optional)

2. Preparation and Cutting:

• Clean the IBC Tote: Ensure the tote is thoroughly cleaned and free from any chemical residues.
• Cut the IBC Tote: Use the saw to cut the IBC tote horizontally into two sections. The bottom section will serve as the fish tank, and the top section will be the grow bed.

3. Setting Up the Fish Tank:

• Position the Fish Tank: Place the bottom section of the IBC tote on a sturdy, level surface.
• Install the Water Pump: Position the water pump in the fish tank, ensuring the power cord can reach an electrical outlet.

4. Setting Up the Grow Bed:

• Position the Grow Bed: Place the top section of the IBC tote above the fish tank. You may need to build a support frame to hold the grow bed securely in place.
• Drill Drainage Holes: Drill holes in the bottom of the grow bed for drainage and insert PVC fittings to connect to the fish tank below.
• Add the Growing Medium: Fill the grow bed with your chosen growing medium.

5.  Plumbing and Water Circulation:

• Connect the Water Pump to the Grow Bed: Use PVC pipes to connect the water pump to the grow bed, ensuring water will be evenly distributed across the plants.
• Install the Drainage System: Ensure proper drainage from the grow bed back into the fish tank. This may involve installing a bell siphon or other drainage mechanism.

6. Starting the System:

• Fill with Water: Fill the fish tank with dechlorinated water.
• Introduce the Fish: Add the fish to the tank and allow them to acclimate.
• Plant the Seedlings: Plant your chosen seedlings or seeds in the grow bed.
• Power On the Pump: Turn on the water pump and monitor the water flow to ensure proper circulation.

7. Monitoring and Maintenance:

• Water Quality: Regularly check pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels.
• Fish Care: Feed the fish appropriately and monitor their health.
• Plant Care: Prune and harvest plants as needed.

B. Barrelponics

Barrelponics, or using barrels for aquaponics systems, is another popular method for medium-sized backyard setups. Barrels are versatile, affordable, and easy to work with.

Using Barrels for Fish Tanks and Grow Beds:

• Versatility: Barrels can be used for both fish tanks and grow beds, making them a flexible option for various aquaponics designs.
• Affordability: Food-grade barrels are often inexpensive and readily available.
• Compact Size: Barrels are perfect for smaller spaces while still providing enough volume for a productive aquaponics system.

Step by step process and maintenance advice:

1. Materials Needed:

• Food-grade plastic barrels (55 gallons each)
• Saw or reciprocating saw
• Water pump
• PVC pipes and fittings
• Grow media (hydroton, gravel, or clay pebbles)
• Fish (tilapia, goldfish, catfish, etc.)
• Plant seedlings or seeds
• Drill and hole saw
• Liner for the grow bed (optional)

2. Preparation and Cutting:

• Clean the Barrels: Ensure the barrels are thoroughly cleaned and free from any residues.
• Cut the Barrels: Cut one barrel in half horizontally to create two grow beds. Leave the other barrel intact for the fish tank.

3. Setting Up the Fish Tank:

• Position the Fish Tank: Place the intact barrel on a sturdy, level surface.
• Install the Water Pump: Position the water pump in the fish tank, ensuring the power cord can reach an electrical outlet.

4. Setting Up the Grow Beds:

• Position the Grow Beds: Place the two halves of the cut barrel on a support structure above the fish tank.
• Drill Drainage Holes: Drill holes in the bottom of the grow beds for drainage and insert PVC fittings to connect to the fish tank below.
• Add the Growing Medium: Fill the grow beds with your chosen growing medium.

5. Plumbing and Water Circulation:

• Connect the Water Pump to the Grow Beds: Use PVC pipes to connect the water pump to the grow beds, ensuring water will be evenly distributed across the plants.
• Install the Drainage System: Ensure proper drainage from the grow beds back into the fish tank. This may involve installing a bell siphon or other drainage mechanism.

6. Starting the System:

• Fill with Water: Fill the fish tank with dechlorinated water.
• Introduce the Fish: Add the fish to the tank and allow them to acclimate.
• Plant the Seedlings: Plant your chosen seedlings or seeds in the grow beds.
• Power On the Pump: Turn on the water pump and monitor the water flow to ensure proper circulation.

7. Monitoring and Maintenance:

• Water Quality: Regularly check pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels.
• Fish Care: Feed the fish appropriately and monitor their health.
• Plant Care: Prune and harvest plants as needed.

By setting up medium-sized backyard aquaponics systems like IBC tote systems or barrelponics, you can enjoy a more substantial and productive aquaponic garden. These systems offer a great balance between size and manageability, providing a continuous supply of fresh fish and vegetables for your household.

Large-Scale Aquaponics Systems

A. Greenhouse Aquaponics

Combining aquaponics with greenhouse technology creates an optimal environment for both fish and plants, enhancing growth and productivity. This setup allows for year-round cultivation, protecting your system from weather extremes and pests.

The benefits of using greenhouses in aquaponics:

• Climate Control: Greenhouses provide a controlled environment, maintaining consistent temperatures and humidity levels. This is beneficial for both fish and plant health.
• Extended Growing Season: Greenhouses enable year-round production, extending the growing season and increasing yields.
• Pest and Disease Management: Greenhouses offer protection against pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
• Maximizing Space: Utilizing vertical space in a greenhouse allows for more efficient use of the area, increasing the number of plants that can be grown.

Aquaponics greenhouse design considerations and construction step:

1. Site Selection and Preparation:

• Location: Choose a site with good sunlight exposure and access to utilities (water, electricity).
• Foundation: Prepare a level foundation for the greenhouse. This can be a concrete slab or a well-drained gravel base.

2. Greenhouse Structure:

• Frame Material: Select a durable frame material, such as aluminum, galvanized steel, or PVC.
• Covering: Use a transparent covering material, such as polycarbonate panels, greenhouse film, or glass, to allow maximum light penetration.
• Ventilation: Incorporate ventilation systems (roof vents, side vents, and exhaust fans) to maintain proper airflow and temperature control.

3. Aquaponics System Setup:

• Fish Tank: Position the fish tank inside the greenhouse, ensuring it is easily accessible for maintenance.
• Grow Beds: Arrange grow beds around the fish tank, optimizing space for plant growth. Consider using raised beds to improve accessibility.
• Water Pump and Plumbing: Install a water pump to circulate water between the fish tank and grow beds. Use PVC pipes and fittings to create an efficient plumbing system.
• Filtration: Include mechanical and biological filters to maintain water quality. Mechanical filters remove solid waste, while biological filters facilitate the nitrogen cycle.

4. Environmental Control Systems:

• Heating and Cooling: Install heating systems (such as electric heaters or gas heaters) and cooling systems (such as evaporative coolers) to maintain optimal temperatures.
• Lighting: Use supplemental grow lights to ensure plants receive adequate light, especially during winter months or in low-light conditions.
• Monitoring Systems: Implement automated systems to monitor and control temperature, humidity, and water quality parameters.

5. Stocking and Planting:

• Introduce Fish: Add fish to the tank, starting with hardy species like tilapia or catfish. Monitor their health and adjust feeding accordingly.
• Plant Seedlings: Plant seedlings or seeds in the grow beds. Choose a variety of vegetables, herbs, and fruits suitable for your climate and system.

6. Maintenance and Monitoring:

• Water Quality: Regularly test and adjust pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels.
• Fish Health: Monitor fish behavior and health, providing appropriate care and feed.
• Plant Care: Prune, harvest, and replant crops as needed. Monitor for pests and diseases.

B. Vertical Aquaponics Towers

Vertical aquaponics towers are a space-efficient and high-yield system, ideal for maximizing limited space. These towers allow for the vertical stacking of grow beds, increasing the number of plants that can be grown in a given area.

The benefits of vertical aquaponics towers:

• Maximizes Space: Vertical towers utilize vertical space, making them ideal for small or urban environments.
• Increased Yield: By stacking multiple levels of grow beds, vertical towers can produce a higher yield per square foot compared to traditional horizontal systems.
• Efficient Water Use: Vertical systems promote efficient water use, as water trickles down through the levels, providing nutrients to all plants before returning to the fish tank.

Instructions for building and maintaining vertical towers:

1. Materials Needed:

• PVC pipes or vertical grow towers
• Water pump
• Tubing and fittings
• Growing medium (hydroton, gravel, or clay pebbles)
• Fish (tilapia, goldfish, catfish, etc.)
• Plant seedlings or seeds
• Drill and hole saw

2. Design and Construction:

• Base Structure: Build a sturdy base to support the vertical towers. This can be made from wood, metal, or other durable materials.
• Vertical Towers: Construct vertical towers using PVC pipes or pre-made vertical grow towers. Drill holes at intervals along the length of the towers for planting.
• Water Distribution: Install a water distribution system to pump water to the top of the towers. Use tubing to connect the water pump to the towers, ensuring even water distribution.
• Drainage: Ensure proper drainage from the bottom of the towers back into the fish tank. This may involve installing a catchment basin or tray to collect excess water.

3. Setting Up the System:

• Position the Towers: Place the vertical towers on the base structure, ensuring they are stable and secure.
• Fill with Growing Medium: Fill each tower with your chosen growing medium, providing support for plant roots.
• Plant Seedlings: Plant seedlings or seeds in the holes along the length of the towers.
• Connect the Water Pump: Connect the water pump to the water distribution system, ensuring water flows evenly to all towers.

4. Starting the System:

• Fill with Water: Fill the fish tank with dechlorinated water.
• Introduce the Fish: Add the fish to the tank and allow them to acclimate.
• Power On the Pump: Turn on the water pump and monitor the water flow to ensure proper circulation through the towers.

5. Maintenance and Monitoring:

• Water Quality: Regularly check and adjust pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels.
• Fish Care:Feed the fish appropriately and monitor their health.
• Plant Care: Prune, harvest, and replant crops as needed. Monitor for pests and diseases.
• System Maintenance: Clean the water pump and tubing periodically to prevent clogs and ensure efficient water flow.

By implementing large-scale aquaponics systems like greenhouse aquaponics or vertical aquaponics towers, you can significantly increase your food production capacity. These systems provide a sustainable and efficient way to grow fresh fish and vegetables, making them ideal for households, communities, or commercial operations.

Creative Aquaponics Designs

1. DIY Indoor Shelponics

If you do not have much garden space but want to get into aquaponics, you can get inspiration from this indoor aquaponics system that is made of four layers of bookshelves. This system will look amazing in lounge spaces or the kitchen area. The four or three-level planting spaces will give you enough space to plant your favorite herbs or vegetables.

2. The Survival Gardener's DIY Aquaponics System

The Survival Gardener created this aquaponics system using three IBC containers bought from a recycling place. One container became a 1000L fish tank while the remaining two were cut in halves and became three plants grow beds and one sump tank. 

3. DIY Greenhouse Built From Reclaimed Windows and Doors

In his photo from Reddit,art_by_di built this DIY greenhouse from reclaimed windows and doors. He also made a 200-gallon aquaponics system inside to grow red lettuces and other vegetables.

4. Easy DIY Aquaponics System

If you already have an aquarium but want to get into aquaponics, then building your aquaponics system is a piece of cake. You can add a grow bed to your aquarium fish tank and start growing your vegetables. This step-by-step

5. Bathtub DIY Aquaponics System

This bathtub DIY aquaponicssystem is an example of what creativity can make. The bathtub system uses two standard recycled bathtubs. 

A bathtub aquaponics system works well and is very simple to operate. This system will produce good results if properly managed and what’s excellent with aquaponics is, you can easily expand later on if you want a bigger system. 

6. DIY One Barrel Aquaponics System 

You will just need a barrel, drill, and jigsaw to build this simple aquaponics system. This step-by-step guide with photos will explain the process of making the single barrel aquaponics system. This type of aquaponics system is excellent for aquaponics beginners who want to start small and save on start-up costs. 

 

Conclusion

Making your own DIY aquaponics system can be a rewarding project if you start on the right track. Don’t worry if you’re a total beginner in aquaponics; there are many free resources and aquaponics gardening tips available online. You can also read our ultimate aquaponics beginner's guide to get ideas on the things you need to start your own aquaponics system..