Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Hi all!

After 6 months worth of "brainstorming", I've finally decided on my first AP system design, to suit our small decked backyard.

The plan is to utilise an existing vertical GB from WallGarden http://wallgarden.com.au/ approx. 4200mm wide x 800mm high (21 WallGarden modules) in conjunction with a 1000L IBC, located underneath the timber deck.

The GB is already mounted to our colourbond fence, with some of the weight bearing directly onto our decking, so GB media weight needs to be considered. We don't like the clay colour of the Hydroton, so I am considering other light media (such as pumice).

Here's a picture of the GB from a few months ago, full of soil and veggies:

Black IBC is out the front ready to go!

Hoping to begin the task of getting the big sucker under the deck this weekend.
This is going to removal of some batons and a considerable amount of digging!

Still need to consider the following:

[*] GB media (lightweight, but not a brown clay colour)
[*] Actual plumbing pipe diameters, PVC or retic?
[*] Pump size to allow for approx. 2m head
[*] Deck Trap Door design
[*] Lots more!

CANNOT wait to get started on my first AP system - finally! (Is it the weekend yet?)
Will keep updating the thread with photos as I stubble along through the journey.

Any comments/suggestions are WELCOME!

Google Sketch Up of the proposed system:

I don't know how easy pumice is to get hold of in Perth, I can't say I've noticed it around too much.
If cost isn't an issue, but weight is, could you perhaps fill them 2/3 with Hydroton and then have a top layer of black basalt?
I think it's about the #1 sexiest landscaping rock - not so much dry, but when it's wet in particular it's very dark and a little shiny, and not insanely expensive. The only thing with dark rock I guess is that it might get fairly hot, depending on where your sun hits?

Hi Katmac!

Thanks for the advice!

Yeah I have been considering a multi layered media, although I wonder how long the basalt would remain on top. I would have thought the layers would 'merge' over time.

So pumice is difficult to find in Perth, that is a shame. Basalt is another media I have been looking at, would definitely consider black or even white basalt either layered or on it's own, depending on weight of course!

You're right though, heat may be an issue with the black basalt. Maybe a thin layer with the hydroton buffer would mitigate this? Do you think the heat would have such a negative effect on the veggies? The fence is on our southern boundary and is partially covered by the patio. I'm actually worried about the plants not getting enough sun, particularly in winter.

How about using the expanded clay but cover it with that black felt stuff they use for vertical gardens. They just cut a little hole where the plants go.

Not a bad idea Matt, perhaps a good alternative.
Will look into it and see how it goes!

if its fairly protected there you might actually find the warmth is a positive for germinating seeds in winter?
Who knows, I think anything is worth a go once though.
I'm not sure about how the media would mix over time, it would depend how thick the layer is, and how gentle you are with planting and harvesting I guess.
Good luck with it all, looks like a very tidy plan

Looks good! Should be a very clean looking system.
I like the idea of an attractive layer of gravel over clay but I am sure the gravel will migrate to the bottom over time being denser than clay.
I was keen on pumice too until I saw how rare it is these days.
I'm sure you can find a gravel that you like the look of, assuming the beds can hold the weight.
Have you considered blue metal/drainage gravel or river rock/gravel? Some of the decorative pebbles that are available might work if they aren't limestone or reactive, they're probably an expensive option though.

Thanks Bodgy!

Yeah agreed, I think it would be a chore to maintain individual layers of media over time.

I have briefly looked into various media types, such as river rock, just need to continue my search!

Weight is an issue but not to the point where only light media is an option.

What are you planning on growing in this vertical garden? Will the color of the media even be that big of a deal once everything is all green and leafy?
The system itself looks good, the FT is nicely tucked away. Probably want to make sure the trap door is pretty close to the size of the entire top of the IBC so you don't have to be hanging upside down to get at corners in case you have to scoop anything out. How much clearance is there under your deck? Also, you might want to put something on the underside of the trap door to keep debris from falling through the gaps between the boards and into your FT.
Not entirely sure if any of my points are actually valid, just thoughts.

Hi Jaminjorma!

Not 100% certain on the plants I will be growing, although it will be similar to those pictured in my first post.

So kale, broccoli, spinach, beetroot, dwarf beans, strawberries, spring onions and various types of lettuce... that type of thing.

I've been thinking about the size of the trap door, you're right though I will need to be careful with the dimensions. I don't want it to be too big though, while still being able to allow adequate access to the tank.

Yeah I will either need to either line underneath the trap door or place a lid over the whole IBC. What about a clear Perspex IBC fitted in a routed groove so that it can slide out of the way!

Haha, one step at a time, but a good point and definitely something I will need to consider!

While it was far from an easy task, the FT is in!

After removing the batons, pulling up the artificial lawn and pavers, I started the mammoth task of digging the tunnel under the deck, until.... I come a cross a redundant soakwell!



To say it was a curveball would be a massive understatement!



Time for some extensive jackhammering!

Looks like fun... Not.

You might be best going for something along the lines of Matyh's suggestion. The problem with having a layer of one media on top of another, is that before long, with planting and harvesting, they mix with each other. The only way to really get a particular look would be to cover it with something solid, that won't mix with the clay.

...after some more digging, the IBC was manhandled into place!



It was time to cut in the trapdoor, which was pretty straightforward.



The housing for the hinges needs to be routed out and same goes for the flush handle, hopefully tonight!



I've decided to try 19mm retic pipe, which I have started to assemble.
Plan is to have a ball valve on either end of the horizontal feed to allow for cleaning and the odd filling of the watering can.

Will be interesting to see how it performs!

Thanks for the advice earthbound, I think you're right.
I'll keep investigating!