Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Actually I live in Santee, San Diego's "East" county though it's actually about the middle. I just set up an IBC system, simple flood & drain with siphons. About 175 gallons in the FT with 5 grow beds. I look forward to meeting local AP experts and finding sources for fingerlings.

My water temp has been as low as 47°F and I would love to raise trout, but I'm sure I'll hit 80°F during the summer months. So I'll probably wind up with catfish unless I can control temps year round or go seasonal crops. Currently just 8 remaining tiny goldfish to test the water.

Filled 12/28/2014 with rain water from barrels. 3/4" lava rock media, 200 gph pump, air poump, no external filter. I've been cycling for almost two weeks and just started adding plants. 12 feeder goldfish were added 12/30. Temps have been below freezing for several nights, but are returning to about 45°/75° typical winter weather. I added a plastic sheet "freeze cap" to protect from freezing nights, but will probably remove it unless needed.

Current pH about 7.5, Temp 50 - 60. planted a few onions, lettuce, basil, brussels sprouts. Looking forward to adding spinach, strawberries, maybe raspberries, squash, corn, tomatoes...

Thanks to all for taking time to share. I'm already learning a lot and I will share / help as I am able.

Manufacturing Engineer, machinist, electrician, woodworker, welder, snow ski, water ski, boating, Co River trips, BSA volunteer, camping, hiking, bicycling, private pilot instrument airplane, scuba...

Cheers - Dave St John

Hello and welcome Dave

Hey Dave welcome. Are you testing your system water? It can give you an idea where you are at in the whole cycling process.

Yes, using test strips right now. They seem a little less precise than the API type kits (one on order) I've used.