Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

We had some crushed brick lying around after some local building were demolished. Also had some totes lying around so we painted one and filled it with brick. This stuff is very heavy and hard to work with but there is some germination started. So far there are two goldfish and one largemouth bass fingerling.

Some more images

Looks good!

How's the PH sitting? I'm just curious if it's PH neutral or not?

I'm interested in this answer as well

Started at 8.6(tap) two weeks ago and now its at 8.3 so at least eight now were on the right track. I have removed most of the crushed mortar but there is still some in there.

Looks great!

pH has remained about 8.0-8.2 if one the feeding rates increase and the pH does not decline we can assume the mirror pieces are dissolving in water.

Beans coming up nicely. Once rapid growth starts we will see how they do there are only 4 small fish at the moment.

Sam

Looking good. Did you test some of brick in vinegar first??1

Nope...the brick itself is OK its just the mortar you have to be concerned with regarding pH. I just test the mortar...

Oh yeah I'm still very wet behind the ears when it comes to aquaponics. What plants are you looking at growing and are you going to have fish for eating eventually or just ornamentals.

Crushed brick has been successfully used for many years. I swear everyone on this planet must have a tin of green paint

System looks great.

Thanks a little paint goes far in terms of image. Here is an update. The pH is still at 8.2 but the plants are growing.

Just a quick question regarding the use of crushed bricks. Did you tumble them to remove any sharp edges?

Looks nice though, would match my house!

Nope there are still lots of sharp edges. It's also very heavy I have to use a trowel just to plant.