Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Hello all,

I've seen a few threads over time but thought ild start another for good luck.

When my next system is underway I am wanting to trial 3 or 4 fruit trees in a siphon corse gravel bed.

I was wondering what size they would need to be for the root mass of a decent size tree? When they are smaller ild probably use the extra space for extra veggies, but ild like to have them large enough from the get go.

Plan is avocado, orange, lemon and pawpaw after seeing Murray's beauty's.

I still have to research a bit, pH and various other things that may not allow a single continuous system but hey, it's worth a go if possible.

I originally thought of half blue barrels but.. They seem a little small after thinking about it.

Anyone had any luck with full size trees? And if so, any recommendations for bed size?

Hope everyone is enjoying the cooler weather.

Trent

I'd imagine half an IBC would do it.
Trees tend to have root balls extending out as far as their foliage through dirt but in gravel it would be much easier for them to get what they need by threading roots through every gap in the stones. I also think that a mixed in larger heavier stone (C grade) could help with the tree's stability when subjected to wind loads.

Hi Trent,

Paw paw in a half 200L blue drum full of coarse gravel (ie: 3/4" bluemetal) would work well, but I don't know that incorporating longer term fruit trees into an aquaponic system is a desirable option.

Murray's paw paws do really well, but he only runs each plant for a maximum of two years. Also, the citrus trees he was trialling didn't do that well in aquaponics, so quite some time back he transplanted them into wicking beds, where they are doing a lot better.

The main reason they aren't really such a viable option is the root systems. With short term plants the majority of their root systems are removed every few weeks or months, so there is very little trapping, or build up of solids/waste in around the root zones, so little chance of anaerobic zones developing. With long term plants this may be an issue. Plus the roots can block up drains etc, even outgrow the grow bed or barrel.

If you kept pruning the root system and foliage like espaliered or semi bonsai (if there is such a thing) there are dwarf fruit trees for all the bloody courtyard gardens, worth bit of research.

Not sure what kind of avocados you guys have in Oz, but Avocados here grow huge. I've successfully had papaya in a f&d IBC.

Thanks for the advice guys!

Yes the roots are my biggest concern as well.. i was wondering about having a setup that airprunes the roots, similar to a root pouch... I just have no idea how to do it hah.

I imagine after a few years it will get pretty crowded root wise.

Good information though, thanks guys.

Maybe the quick plants like pawpaw and bannanas are the way to go after all.

Might just be worth an experiment though!

Heres a photo of some air pruning wicking pots you will need to scroll down
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