Aquaponic Grow Bed Size Calculator

Aquaponic Grow Bed Size Calculator

Here’s a comprehensive table summarizing all you need to know about aquaponic grow bed sizes:

AspectDetails
Ideal Depth12-14 inches (30-35 cm)13
Minimum Depth6-8 inches (15-20 cm) for leafy greens and herbs3
Recommended Media Depth12 inches (30 cm) of wet media + 2 inches (5 cm) of dry media on top7
Grow Bed to Fish Tank RatioStart with 1:1 (80 square inches per 80-gallon tank), can increase up to 4:110
Surface Area Requirement50 ft² (4.6 m²) of surface area per pound of fully grown fish1
Water Requirement8 gallons (30 liters) of water per pound of fully grown fish1
Grow Bed WidthMaximum 1.2 m (4 ft) if accessible from one side only2
Media VolumeOnly 40% of grow bed capacity is filled with water when using clay balls2
Weight ConsiderationsA 1000L media bed weighs approximately 550 kg when filled2
DrainageDrill 1/8″ or 3/16″ holes every 2 square inches in the bottom for proper drainage6
PlumbingInclude a 1/2″ hole in one corner for pump tubing6
Growing Capacity1-2 square feet (0.09-0.19 m²) of growing area per 10 gallons (38 L) of fish tank water6

Remember that these are general guidelines, and the exact size and specifications may vary depending on your specific system design, the types of plants you want to grow, and the fish species you’re raising. Always consider factors such as the root depth of your chosen plants, the weight capacity of your support structure, and the overall balance of your aquaponic ecosystem when determining the ideal grow bed size for your system

Leave a Comment