Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

So true.

great stuff Monya..it has been fantastic watching the progress of your system..thanks...now cant wait to see the green phase happenning

Hi LB, how you doin? Thanks for that, the green phase is coming soon!!!!

Good thanks...been flat out like a lizard drinking with work..come back with over 2000 posts to read..ouch..so mch happening here...seems like there is going to be alot of established systems to test in a years time..Been planning on second system which will have some bigger fish.prob silvers..starting system this week so will post construction phase etc..

Since summer is fast approachin what are your plans for cooling your hothouse?

I have to cut out the window at the end, then install the awning window. Will use a fan in the shed to blow hot air out if needed. There is about 150mm gap under the bottom rail all around to help with circulation. If it's not enough I suppose I will start cutting holes!!!!

have you any idea yet wot u are going to plant??

I'm gonna get a bit of everything to start with and see what goes the best. Definately a lot of herbs. The BIL who helped me with gravel and greenhouse wants a constant supply of coriander, so that will be in the floating rafts. I hate buying lettuces, so they will be in there too. And fresh basil on pizza rules, so in they go.

For those that are thinking of PLC'ing.....................you could tie vent solenoids or fans to a temperature loop to auto open close them

Steve

The polytunnels are very effective. I just did a quick temp test. Outside the tunnel, 13.6, inside on top of the gravel bed, 17.5. And it's a cloudy day.

I get lost with all the tech stuff!

Thinking of a poly tunnel myself; how about putting a home made version of one of those thermal /shade screens that you stretch between the walls about two thirds of the way up. I think if the material you use is reflective it reflects the sunlight out again. Greenhouses by Dr Keith Garzoli discusses the different types of materials at length; but anything that lets some light through and reflects the rest would do the job (has to reflect otherwise the material just gets hot and heats up the greenhouse anyway). Also if you choose a material that doesn't transmit heat then in winter you can pull it across at night to help retain the heat.

have you got a link to that info E2?

Nice one Stu, your Barra will be a lot happier with the water being kept warm as it pumps through those growbeds......

Great work Stu!