Glued to a recent episode of Costa’s Garden Odyssey I was particularly fascinated with a segment about Aquaponics. ‘Aqua what?’ I hear you say. For those as clueless on the topic as I was Aquaponics is ” the symbiotic cultivation of plants and aquatic animals in a recirculating environment.”

These sustainably harmonious ecosystems work on[rss-cut] the notion of mutual benefit. In a nutshell: water from the fish below feeding the plants above, nutrients from the plants feeding the fish. And so it goes, around and around.

Murray Hallam's Balcony Maximus, from his site 'Practical Aquaponics for Everyone

The fruit and vegies can grow to remarkable sizes, while the fish thrive on the quality and clarity of the water as filtered by the plants. The system runs on either salt or fresh water depending on the aquatic life below, and the water savings in cultivation are quite compelling – up to 90% less water used than on a regular soil garden.

Plants grow not in soil but on clay pebbles, and similar to your typical earth garden, worms have an important role in this scenario: to break down the fish poo. Perfect.

Is it possible to  set up an Aquaponics system on your balcony? Glad you asked. The short answer is, yes. The long answer is that it is can a be a complex process, there is a fine science to it so do your research before deciding if Aquaponics is for you. There are several sizes available for small spaces with varying price tags. Check out the range at Murray Hallam’s Practical Aquaponics for Everyone.

The Aquaponics Journal offers extensive coverage on the topic, and some interesting discussion can be found on the Microponics blog. Title images from Friendly Aquaponics and Nelson & Pade Aquaponic technology systems & supplies.

About Ingrid Schroder

A Sydney-side freelance graphic designer, photographer & yoga teacher - I find myself turning to nature for guaranteed revival from the crazy pace of city life - be it digging in my garden, capturing natural beauty through a lens, floating in the ocean, practicing yoga or out exploring this incredible planet we all call home. Follow me on twitter @Cohabitaire