Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Odd that i didn't think of this beforehand, but perlite floats. I just gave my first completed GB a test run. The autosiphon worked well enough (it's just a loop of hose), it left about 2 inches of water in the bottom of the GB but i assume tha'ts not a big issue.
The bigger problem, is the floating nature of perlite. will this go away when i plant stuff in there or does it actually float up and down a bit like pummus all the time?

It will become a little waterlogged over time, but not much......

Try putting a layer of gravel on top.

hmmm, wouldn't the gravel just settle to the bottom of the bed?

Nope

what if i got some really course sand and mixed it in, that would probably weight it down enough?

Good chance sand would probably work it's way down through the perlite Timmy

It's smaller than the perlite....

Once planted out and growing the roots will bind the media together more anyway.

yeah true. once it's bound together it'd float like a boat i think. i'll keep playing around until i find a solution

I've got about 5cm of gravel over perlite - works like a charm. You just have to be careful when pulling out big plants (cabbage etc) not to drag the perlite through with the root ball.

Timmy why would you try to perfect the wheel again?
Geez most of your post are very questioning, why don't you just do!
If you want to experiment, don't ask just do!
Where abouts in perth are you?
I am sure one of us would love to show you one of our installs!
C1

Actually that's probably a good idea Timmy, arrange a visit with Joel or TimC or one of the other members around Perth and eyeball an actual working system... perhaps some of the concepts might become more apparent when actually viewed and it would give you the chance to ask specific questions and get specific answers.

Whereabouts are you in Perth?

Mine is running off 6 goldfish and some marron at the moment but your welcome to come check it out...

it's all done. I found some cheap river stones and put a layer on top, works like a charm. they are too wide and flat to get lost in the perlite as well.
Tested the pump, works good, autosiphons are going.
Only thing to do is add the fish now, which i'll do on my next break as i'm heading down to margret river for a few days of food and booze.

I'm in rivervale, near the belmont forum. i'd love to check out a working system. pictures of mine will follow soon as i can.

Timmy these a few people down Margeret River way...

C1, beej and Trevor (not active a lot)... and Mandurahguy at Mandurah on the way down....

PM them... if C1 has some time I'm sure he'll be glad to show you around

Timmy,
If you are getting some SP or marron/yabbies while down there, I could use some here too.
I am in Bedfordale, on Albany Hwy, so give me a call if in the area.

Tony