Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Also consider hydroton most likely buys bulk electricity so its cheaper than what most would pay. However for me to run a kiln is EXPENSIVE!!! to fire something

Yep... It all adds up. And if I can figure out how to make a ton of clay balls in a weekend then I think I can compete with hydroton. lol.

I have the means to set up a mostly automated assembly line Clay--> Extruder-->Cutter-->Tumble Mill I still have to get it onto the drying racks and then into the kiln...

running the kiln is where it'll get expensive.
The idea of using graded broken bricks isn't a bad one though

Hey guys... I know where you can get a couple of these....

You truck them down and pay for the power.... I'll drive them

Anyone know of a cheap hydroton supplier in the US? I need 16 yards.

Perhaps I should just hire one of the local Mexicans to clean gravel for me..

I've never found cheap hydroton, and if they're not in your local area, the shipping on the stuff is killer. I did negotiate a discount from a local hydroponics supplier for a small bulk order, but it's still pricy.

I think I will just stick with pea gravel. Its just to expensive to buy that much hydroton. I can pay questionably legal person $6 and hour to clean it for me.

Theres no way I want to wash that much by my self and then shovel it into the beds! :brave: It would make me tuff though..