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How to Set Up Your Own Aquaponic Tanks at Home

Aquaponics is a system that combines aquatic animals and hydroponic plants to form a symbiotic relationship. Simply put, the fish waste feeds the plants and the plants clean the water for the fish. Aquaponics can be a fun and simple hobby or a serious method with which to farm vegetables and fish.

Things You'll Need

  • Fish tank -- minimum 5 gallon capacity
  • Goldfish
  • 8-by-12-inch piece of cork board
  • 6 2-inch net pots
  • Sharp knife
  • 6 potted herbs, such as mint, watercress and basil, in 2-inch pots

Instructions

    • 1

      Set up the fish tank in the usual manner. Make sure it is as close to a window as possible because the herbs will require sunshine. Place rocks and decorative items on the bottom of the tank if you wish, as this will not interfere with the live plants. At this point you may add the goldfish. You must wait two weeks before continuing with the next steps, to allow the proper bacterial growth to develop. If you have an existing tank set up already you can immediately start with Step 2. Make sure the tank is clean and in good condition.

    • 2

      Cut six holes through the cork board, using the knife. The holes should be 3 inches apart in two rows, with three holes per row. Make the holes 2 inches in diameter. Insert the net pots through the holes.

    • 3

      Remove the herbs from their containers by tipping them upside down and squeezing the plastic pots. Shake off the excess dirt and rinse the roots clean of all dirt that clings to them. Place one herb into each of the net pots.

    • 4

      Place your cork board and herbs on the surface of the fish tank to float. There should be enough room for it to be easily removed for cleaning the tank and to feed the fish. You will not need to clean the fish tank as often because the plants will utilize most of the fish waste. Enjoy your miniature herb garden.