Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

I couldn't remember or find any discussion of this product so thought what the heck.
Got one for a Christmas gift and planted it out on Jan 1st.
Neat and tidy, fasionable, easy to operate, takes up about as much space as a small Micro wave.
I find myself desperately wanting to add fish though!
This would be a good design base I think for a table top Ap system.
Aerogarden

I kept wondering what would happen if you closed the lid on the plants

The lid I think you mean is just the light fixture and it has a lower position for germinaton and the can be adjusted up, I think 5 different height selections as the plants grow. It does not close all the way although it looks as if it would.
Quite the market, they even have a wall bracket for it if you dont have the counter space.
And belated B-day wishes to your other half J.

thanks John I'll let him know.

It looks like a fun present. What are you growing in it?

Just the seed batch that came with it (Gormet Herb's). They sell different seed groups, 7 cups per package at $20 a shot.
The Gormet Herb kit has Italian Basil, Parsely, Cilantro, Mint, Chives, Dill, and Purple Basil.
Something I would not have bought for myself but yes a neat present.
Now how long must I wait before I convert it to Ap without hurting the gift givers feelings?

how close are you to the gift giver? Will conversion result in permanently hurt feelings? Will it result in cold shoulders and lack of emotional support?

LOL, It's my big brother. Isn't there a set social rule that is understood by all or is it on a case by case basis?

does he visit often?

Dad bought one of those things. I think he secretly envies my AP system, but SWMBO would never allow it.

The water reservoir is enclosed. How would big brother ever know there were fishies in there?

Show us your pics, Got Fish, please!

Well we see each other monthy I spose. I could not keep a fish addition, secret. It's set up at the other house and we only get there on the week ends but I'll take some pics next time.
But seriously it has a pleasing design. Now, the crux. Keeping with the Ap. Fish must be viewable, so a clear plexiglass for the water tank. Shaped the same as existing one so the plant table would fit and give some shade for the fish. The grow lights are really bright so I'd guess it would not be long before alge took over the view.
Perhaps an increase in holding room, say a 5 gallon tank? Strickly ornamental fish.
Would taking it to 5 gallons make it too heavy to be a table top Ap design? That's 40 lbs sitting on the counter.
How does your dad like his JP?

Like ya thinking GF

A table should be able to hold 40 lbs no problem. You could get a 5 gallon traditional tank and cover the top with a piece of black plastic to match the aerogarden thingy. The top will be opaque, so not much of an algae issue from the growlights. There will be algae growth from the clear sides, so get a pleco or snails or other normal aquarium-type solutions. Would be snazzy!

I saw one of these aerogardens at bed bath and beyond. And I definately would not buy one. Way too small. Plants would out grow it very quickly. I wanted to take it apart to find the pump, timer and misters. Thought they might make me pay for it if I did that.

It's really just an expensive toy. Dad thinks it is well-designed and cute, but too small to give any reasonable quantity of herbs. iow, no pesto supplies, just garnishes and light seasonings.