All you cannabis growers thinking of trying aquaponics for cannabis then start with learning the basics of how cannabis aquaponics works and what can be done to achieve optimal yields. To grow cannabis aquaponically, one should know how to produce high levels of nutrients for marijuana to thrive, and that needs a better understanding of the whole system!
What is Aquaponics?
Aquaponics is a fascinating and sustainable system that combines two efficient techniques:
- Aquaculture: Include raising fish, shrimp, crayfish, or prawns in a controlled environment. Tilapia, koi, trout, catfish, bluegills, or, which are the best choices for creating such ecosystems, are hardy fishes that can tolerate crowding.
- Hydroponics: Growing plants in a water-based system without soil.
Here’s the magic of aquaponics: the nutrient-rich water from the fish tank, which can contain ammonia from fish waste, is circulated to a hydroponic growing bed. You can say that it creates organic aquaponics for cannabis growing where the beneficial bacteria break down the ammonia into nitrates easily absorbed by cannabis aquaponics nutrients.
The plants purify the water by absorbing nitrates and other nutrients, making it safe for fish to live. It’s a closed-loop system where the waste from one component becomes fertilizer for the other, creating a mini ecosystem.
Aquaponics is the most efficient way to cultivate fish and plants without much work. Additionally, the expense is lowered because one’s trash becomes food for another. Many commercial industries use aquaponic methods to combine tilapia and lettuce for a lucrative business. Even in small setups, aquaponic is sustainable and profitable for creating food in infertile land, and with fewer resources. So, that’s all you need!
How do Aquaponic Systems Work?
Growing cannabis aquaponically is somewhat similar to a hydroponics system but the key difference is you don’t have to add nutrients but they are produced via fish detritus. It gets dissolved in water and then supplied to the upper tank where cannabis plants are supported. In aquariums, cannabis roots absorb nutrients and purify them before supplying water again. So, here you only buy fish food which is part of the cannabis food chain, and the rest is done by these lovely fishes.
How does fish waste help grow cannabis?
Fish waste contains nitrogen and multiple minerals which makes the cannabis aquaponic system so great for growing marijuana effectively. The plants filter the water by cleaning it, and making it suitable for the fish to live in again. It’s a closed-loop system where the waste from one component becomes fertilizer for the other, creating a mini ecosystem.
We all know that cannabis requires micro and macro nutrients but the major ones are NPK. Nitrogen helps in maintaining green cannabis leaves but you have to add phosphorus and potassium supplements to the cannabis aquaponics.
But how to add phosphorus and potassium? For this, you can opt for a double root zone. The bottom half of cannabis roots are submerged in water and the top is covered with soil, this two-way division can be done via burlap, so that soil does not get in touch with water. It allows adding additive nutrients directly without water contamination. The only thing to keep in mind is not to over-saturate soil and to keep the aquaponics cannabis system clean.
Also Read: Harvesting Cannabis Buds: Tips, Tricks, and Expert Advice
Aquaponics vs Hydroponics for Cannabis
As mentioned above, aquaponic utilizes hydroponic techniques for growing cannabis but an addition of fish in a water tank. It allows the generation of nitrogen (the most vital nutrient for growing cannabis) in high amounts.
We know that hydroponic systems are more precise and provide faster growth rates and control over nutrient delivery. However, you need to purchase them from stores, which can be hefty on the pocket.
Also, Aquaponics is more environmentally friendly and self-sufficient. Fish waste offers natural nutrients to plants, eliminating the need for additional fertilizer. It’s also a closed-loop system that conserves water. However, setting up and maintaining a balanced aquaponic system can be more complex, especially in the initial stages when establishing the beneficial bacteria that convert fish waste into plant-usable nutrients.
Some considerations before opting for Aquaponics for Cannabis Growing are:
- Water temperature
- Tank size
- Maintenance
- Availability
Some fishes require warm water, so get heaters for your aquarium. Some are bigger, so buying large tanks means investing more time and money.
Types of Aquaponic Cannabis Growing
There are three main types of Aquaponic systems. Let us see how they work:
- Deep Water Culture (DWC): DWC is like a floating garden where plants with net pots holding their roots rest on rafts floating in fish tank water. This water is constantly aerated and circulated, delivering nutrients directly to the plant roots. It is simple to set up but requires good filtration as there’s no media to capture solid waste. It’s ideal for leafy greens like lettuce and herbs.
- Nutrient Film Technique (NFT): NFT uses a shallow, sloped channel filled with a growing medium like clay pebbles. Water continuously flows down the channel, carrying nutrients to the exposed plant roots. NFT is efficient with water and space but requires a pump to maintain the water flow. It works well for short-rooted crops like herbs and strawberries.
- Media-Based Aquaponics: This method is like a hybrid of the two above. Plants grow in a container filled with gravel or coconut coir. Fish tank water trickles or floods the media, delivering nutrients and allowing beneficial bacteria to break down waste. Media beds are versatile and suitable for a wider range of plants including vegetables and fruiting varieties. They require less maintenance than DWC but can be bulkier than NFT.
Also Refer To: What is Cannabis Plant Training?
How to set up an Aquaponic System?
To set up your Aquaponic Cannabis system, you need a few things and have to do it step-wise. If you already have a hydroponic system at your home, this will be much easier for you. Don’t worry, this is beginner-friendly:
Setting up an aquaponic system can be an exciting project, but it involves a few key steps. Get started with this guide:
1. Planning and Design
Where to install aquaponics? Decide on an indoor or outdoor location with access to sunlight (if growing plants that need it) and electricity. Consider the weight of a full system when choosing a location.
Which technique suits you the best? Deep Water Culture (DWC), Nutrient Film Technique (NFT), and Media-Based Aquaponics are the primary alternatives. Each has advantages and considerations (refer to the previous explanation for details).
How big a system do you want? Determine the size of your system based on available space and desired yield. Start small if you’re a beginner.
2. Gather Your Supplies
Here is what you will need for a perfect cannabis aquaponics setup:
- Fish Tank: Select a food-grade container suitable for your chosen size. Some people opt for large plastic barrels or recycled tote containers to save money.
- Grow Bed: These can be built from wood or purchased pre-made. You’ll need a growing medium like gravel, clay pebbles, or coconut coir.
- Water Pump: This circulates water between the fish tank and grow beds. Choose a pump as per aquaponic system size.
- Air Pump and Airstone: Provide oxygen to the fish tank water, essential for both fish and beneficial bacteria.
- Ammonia: Adding ammonia attracts bacteria to work for nutrient breakup.
If you are still in confusion get a cannabis aquaponics kit that will have all the necessary things you need to install an aquaponic system.
3. Setting Up the Fish Tank
Clean thoroughly and remove chlorine. Cycle the tank for 4-6 weeks to establish beneficial bacteria before adding fish. Also, operate the tank for at least a month to activate bacteria needed for nitrogen synthesis. If the pond will not have good bacteria and microorganisms, it will not have nitrogen for fish.
You can add a little ammonia for bacteria production. You can even buy aquaponics systems for cannabis, these have installation manuals and use aquaponic cannabis kits with bacteria, algae, and other essential good microorganisms for nitrate conversion. Do not use too much or too little, go for the dosage mentioned by the supplier.
Now, ensure proper drainage and fill them with your chosen media. Connect the pump, hoses, and other necessary components to create water flow from the fish tank to the grow beds and back to complete the ecosystem.
4. Adding Plants and Fish
Choose aquaponics-friendly varieties like leafy greens, herbs, or certain fruiting plants. Research their specific needs. Seedlings or starter plants can be used. Ensure proper spacing for mature plant size. After the tank has cycled, add fish suitable for aquaponics, like tilapia, koi, barramundi, ornamental fish, or goldfish. Start with a smaller number and gradually increase as the system matures.
5. Create Growing Beds for Cannabis Plants
Creating media helps cannabis roots to develop and sustain in aquaponic systems. Use a net pot first to support the plants, as we do in the hydroponic method. The next step is to plant it in the container inside the tank that receives water from the fish tank. Always go for a quality water tank.
Add a layer of pebbles and create a culture medium with plants, etc. Maintain water pH and temperature. You can also opt for aquaponics to grow lights for cannabis to maintain water temperature and aura. Put a burlap over the tank head and add pH-compliant soil on the burlap. It will create a dual root zone as one part is aquatic and the other is soil. Burlap helps in root development by creating a root air flow for better nutrient absorption.
6. Start to Grow
Now your aquaponic system is ready for seedling cannabis plantation. Always, add fish according to several plants. Once you are a pro, you will know what to do.
Remember, the Automated system is in optimal condition and water circulation is in good condition. All the best!
Also Read: Where to grow Cannabis- Indoor or Outdoor?
Advantages and Disadvantages of Aquaponic System for Cannabis Growing
Aquaponics offers a unique way to cultivate cannabis, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Here’s the advantages and disadvantages to help you decide if it’s the right approach for you:
Benefits of Aquaponics for Cannabis:
- The closed-loop system means fish waste provides natural nutrients for cannabis, eliminating chemical fertilizers and minimizing environmental impact.
- Aquaponics uses significantly less water than traditional soil cultivation, making it ideal for drier climates or water conservation efforts.
- Studies suggest cannabis may experience faster growth rates in aquaponics due to the readily available nutrients and highly oxygenated water.
- Controlled environments allow for consistent growing conditions, regardless of the season.
- This ecosystem produces organic trichomes with potent and natural taste and aroma.
- You can set up this system anywhere- indoors or outdoors. You can either create a small setup or a large grow tank.
- Good for growers who want to try something new and cool.
Drawbacks of Aquaponics for Cannabis:
- Setting up an aquaponic system requires more initial investment compared to soil cultivation. You’ll need equipment for the fish tank, filtration, and potentially water pumps and heating/cooling systems.
- Maintaining a balanced aquaponic system with healthy fish and thriving plants requires more knowledge and monitoring than soil. Understanding fish care, water chemistry, and beneficial bacteria is crucial.
- Some cannabis strains may prefer the buffering capacity of the soil, which helps regulate nutrient uptake. Researching strain suitability for aquaponics is recommended.
Common challenges when growing weed with Aquaponics
While aquaponics offers potential benefits for cannabis cultivation, it does come with some specific challenges than growing in soil. Here are common hurdles to watch out for:
1. Maintaining Nutrient Balance: Cannabis has specific nutrient requirements. Aquaponic systems rely on fish waste providing nutrients, but this can be tricky to balance initially. The amount of fish waste might not perfectly match plant needs, requiring adjustments with supplemental nutrients or choosing fish species for producing higher waste.
2. System Imbalances and Crashes: Aquaponics relies on a delicate balance between fish, beneficial bacteria, and plants. Sudden changes in water quality, fish illness, or overfeeding fish can disrupt this balance. Quick identification and corrective actions are vital to prevent system crashes that harm both fish and plants.
3. Not Ideal for All Strains: Some cannabis strains benefit from the buffering capacity of the soil, which helps regulate nutrient uptake. Aquaponics can be more susceptible to fluctuations, potentially impacting certain strain types. Researching strain suitability for aquaponics is recommended.
4. Steeper Learning Curve: Maintaining a balanced aquaponics system with healthy fish and thriving cannabis plants requires more knowledge and monitoring than soil. Understanding fish care, water chemistry, and beneficial bacteria is crucial.
5. Potential Pest and Disease Issues: Some traditional soil pesticides may not be suitable for aquaponics due to potential harm to fish. Utilizing organic pest control methods or preventative measures becomes even more important.
Also Read: Identifying and Treating Common Cannabis Pests and Diseases
Must-Follow Tips for a Successful Aquaponic Grow
Here are some must-follow tips for a successful aquaponic grow:
- Planning and Setup: Begin with a manageable system size. This helps in troubleshooting any issues before scaling up.
- Research Plant and Fish Compatibility: Not all plants or fish are ideal for aquaponics. Choose plants that thrive in the water conditions created by your chosen fish species known for producing a good amount of waste to provide sufficient nutrients.
- Stay on Top of Water Chemistry: Regularly test your water’s pH, ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates. Maintain a healthy balance for both fish and plants by adjusting as needed.
- Be Vigilant with Plant and Fish Care: Provide adequate lighting, adjust nutrient levels, prune plants for optimal growth, and harvest as they mature. Also, feed fish appropriately, maintain clean water through regular partial water changes, and monitor their health for signs of stress or illness.
- Gradual Introduction: When adding fish to your system, start with a smaller number and gradually increase the population as your beneficial bacteria colony establishes and the system matures.
- Embrace Continuous Learning: Utilize online resources, books, and forums to learn best practices for your specific aquaponics setup, plant selections, and fish species.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: Once you gain experience, experiment with different plant varieties and tweak your system to find what works best.
Best Cannabis Strains For Aquaponics Growing
See, it is always better to choose cannabis strains that are rigid and can withstand any condition. If you are confused, go for all the cannabis strains that work better in hydroponic systems as hydroponic and aquaponic are similar. Choose strains that are easy to grow, produce better yields, and require fewer nutrients. Here are a few strains that are better for Aquaponic cannabis growing:
1. Gorilla Cake
This indica-dominant hybrid of Gorilla Glue and Wedding Cake. Gorilla Cake is known for its dense, trichome-frosted buds that pack a serious punch. The effects are relaxing euphoria, ideal for unwinding and stress relief. The aroma is a delightful mix of earthy chem from Gorilla Glue and sweet, cakey notes from Wedding Cake, making it a favorite among users.
2. White Widow
White Widow is typically 50/50 sativa and indica, offering a combination of uplifting cerebral effects and a relaxing body high. The buds are covered in white trichomes, giving it the “widow” name. The aroma is often described as a mix of pine, earth, and skunk, with some variations depending on the phenotype.
3. OG Kush
OG Kush, a cornerstone of West Coast cannabis culture, is an indica-dominant hybrid shrouded in mystery. Its potent effects and distinctive flavor profile are classic. OG Kush is known for its dense, resinous buds with a pungent aroma of fuel, pine, and earth. The effects are typically relaxing and calming, making it a popular choice for pain relief and insomnia.
FAQS
Let’s discuss some frequently asked questions on growing cannabis aquaponically :
Q: How to grow cannabis aquaponically for beginners?
A: Growing cannabis aquaponically is exciting but requires careful planning. Here’s a basic guide: Start by planning, getting supplies, setting up the system, installing plants and fish, and then regular monitoring of the aquaponic system. Start small, research thoroughly, and be prepared to learn!
Q: Can you grow high THC strains aquaponically?
A: Yes, but it might be trickier. High-THC strains often have specific nutrient needs. Aquaponic nutrients come from fish waste, which might require supplementation for optimal THC production. Research strain suitability and nutrient management for aquaponics.
Q: Which is the best way to control pH in cannabis aquaponics?
A: Maintaining proper pH is vital. Monitoring your water’s pH frequently. Add coco coir or oyster shells to your grow media for natural pH buffering. Use these for adjustments, but minimize reliance to avoid harming fish and plants.
Q: Does aquaponics increase cannabis yield?
A: Studies suggest cannabis may grow faster in aquaponics due to readily available nutrients. However, high yields depend on factors, like strain selection, system maintenance and nutrient management. All three are crucial for optimal growth.
Q: How often do you feed fish in aquaponics for cannabis?
A: Feeding frequency in aquaponics depends on fish species, plant size, and stage and water testing. So, there is no specific rule but remember to feed fish regularly. To know when your fish needs food, monitor ammonia levels to determine feeding needs. Start with smaller feedings and adjust based on your system.
Q: How to troubleshoot problems with cannabis aquaponics?
A: Troubleshooting involves identifying the source of the problem by monitoring water pH, nutrients, and ammonia for imbalances. Looking for signs of pests, or diseases. By researching potential causes and threats and trying to get the best that you have, you can achieve a bountiful harvest in cannabis aquaponics.
Q. Why are buffers important in aquaponic systems?
A. Buffers in aquaponics act like a shield for pH stability. They resist drastic changes in water acidity or alkalinity. Two main types of hardness contribute to buffering: carbonate hardness (KH) and general hardness (GH).
Carbonate hardness, primarily composed of calcium and magnesium carbonates, is the most crucial buffer in aquaponics. When KH is present, it neutralizes acids that could cause the pH to drop too low. General hardness includes additional minerals like calcium and magnesium bound to other elements. While it contributes to overall water hardness, GH has a lesser impact on buffering capacity compared to carbonate hardness. Maintaining a good level of KH is essential for a healthy and stable aquaponic system.
When KH rises, fish may die. If you notice fish are dying rapidly it’s time to check water pH. Also, if the buffer starts to swing fast, adjust pH levels. Keep monitoring.
Q. How to adjust pH?
A. In hydroponics, growers generally use acids or bases to adjust pH levels. Similarly, you can use phosphoric, muriatic, or nitric acid to adjust pH in aquaponic systems. Do not use citric acid or any antibacterial agent, it may kill bacteria in the tank. Most growers prefer phosphoric acid as it is the safest of all.
Q. How do you produce nutrients in aquaponics?
A. During the flowering stage, growers do require essential nutrients for cannabis like calcium, iron, phosphorus, and potassium, Use liquid nutrient supplements available in the marijuana market. But before always test your water.
Q. How to create a cannabis Aquaponic ecosystem with no cost?
A. Yes, you can do it. Introduce vermicompost or worms to the system. Usually, solid waste is discarded in an aquaponic system. Worms help liquefy waste and turn it into something valuable. So, everything is completed without additional baggage. You will need fish feed; if you do not want to use it, cultivate duckweed or other fish-friendly plants.
Conclusion
If you use a hydroponic system, you can switch to an aquaponic system to grow Cannabis Organically. Everything needs time, patience, and labor. So, does an Aquaponic system need some trial and error before becoming a pro?
It is all about growing and learning, don’t give up and enjoy the best cannabis buds of your homegrown cannabis garden!
Hope this helps!
