Difference Between Hydroponics or Aquaponics Food Production

Difference Between Hydroponics or Aquaponics Food Production Because of the limited space available for farming, and the demand for organic and healthy produce, the soilless method of growing fresh and healthy vegetables is gaining popularity. Hydroponics and aquaponics are two popular soilless methods for growing vegetables. These two methods are similar, but there are some differences that we'll be looking at in this blog.

What is Aquaponics?

Aquaponics is a mixture of aquaculture (the raising of fish and other aquatic animals), and hydroponics, the growing of plants without soil in a recirculating environment.

Aquaponics uses plants grown in a grow bed and fish placed in a fish tank. The fish tank water that contains fish waste is then fed to the grow beds. There, billions upon billions of beneficial bacteria convert the ammonia into nitrites. These nitrates are absorbed by plants and used to fuel their growth. The roots of the plant filter and clean the water before it returns to the tank. The fish tank will recirculate the oxygenated, fresh water back into the fish tank where it will continue the cycle.

Advantages of Aquaponics: • • • • • • •

Aquaponics can be described as a sustainable, intensive production system You can earn two incomes through fish or plant production Aquaponics uses water efficiently It doesn't require soil or large areas of land Avoid using fertilizer, pesticides, or other chemicals as they could affect fish in the system Aquaponics is a way to grow food year-round by controlling the temperature and using greenhouses Aquaponics systems produce organic, chemical-free fruits and vegetables

Disadvantages to Aquaponics: • • • •

It may be costly to build and set up It is necessary to maintain your home daily This requires knowledge about fish, bacteria, as well as plant production You will need an electrical supply that is reliable

What is Hydroponics?

Hydroponics refers to the cultivation of plants in nutrient-rich solutions without soil. Hydroponics involves plants being grown in an inert medium and fed with a nutrient rich solution.

Advantages of Hydroponics: • • • • • •

Hydroponics allows plants to be grown all year round, as the climate conditions can easily be controlled using a greenhouse Because their roots don't need to reach for nutrients, plants can be grown closer together Because nutrients are easily available, plants grow faster and bigger. The same nutrients are always available in the nutrient solution Hydroponics can be used to grow food in places that are not suitable for traditional agriculture This reduces the time it takes to harvest the fruit and increases its nutritional value It reduces the need for pest and weed control chemicals

Disadvantages of Hydroponics: • • • • •

Hydroponics is more costly to construct and maintain than traditional methods of growing Hydroponics systems rely on electricity to power their various components, including grow lights, water pumps and aerators Hydroponics requires a higher level in monitoring and management Plants that are grown in soil are more susceptible to waterborne disease Water-based plants react negatively to nutrient deficiencies and other diseases

Which is better? Hydroponics or Aquaponics?

There is no clear winner in the debate about which method is best between the two methods of growing. Your purpose, preference, and intent will determine the answer. Hydroponics is better if you are looking to grow plants with chemical nutrients. Aquaponics, however, is the best option if you prefer organic growing. The practicality of both systems, as well as their cost to maintain and start up, will be key factors in the decision-making process for growers.

Nelson and Pade, Inc. provides aquaponic systems, training, and support to individuals, entrepreneurs, governments, and schools who want food security, food quality, and a positive return on their investment. The goal of Nelson and Pade, Inc. is to provide aquaponic equipment, supplies, training, and support so that growers anywhere in the world can be successful in aquaponic food production.