What You'll Need
Before starting, gather these essential materials:
Equipment List
- Fish tank - 20-50 gallon for beginners
- Grow bed - Food-safe plastic container
- Water pump - 200-400 GPH submersible pump
- Air pump - With air stones for oxygenation
- Growing media - Expanded clay pebbles (LECA) or lava rock
- PVC pipes and fittings - For plumbing
- Bell siphon or timer - For flood and drain
- Water test kit - For pH, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate
Step 1: Set Up the Fish Tank
Position your fish tank in a location that:
- Can support the weight (water weighs 8.3 lbs per gallon)
- Has access to electrical outlets
- Is near a water source for easy refilling
- Receives indirect light (to prevent algae growth)
Step 2: Build the Grow Bed
The grow bed sits above or beside the fish tank. For a media-based system:
- Drill a hole in the bottom for the drain
- Install a bulkhead fitting
- Add a bell siphon or simple standpipe
- Fill with washed growing media
Step 3: Install the Plumbing
Connect the pump in the fish tank to the grow bed with PVC pipe. Water flows up to the grow bed, filters through the media, and drains back to the fish tank.
Step 4: Cycle the System
Before adding fish, you must cycle the system to establish beneficial bacteria. This takes 4-6 weeks. Monitor ammonia and nitrite levels - when both read zero and nitrates are present, your system is cycled.
Step 5: Add Fish and Plants
Start with hardy fish like tilapia or goldfish. Begin with leafy greens like lettuce, kale, or herbs - they're the most forgiving for beginners.
Estimated Costs
A basic backyard system costs approximately:
- Fish tank: $50-150
- Grow bed: $30-80
- Pump and plumbing: $50-100
- Growing media: $40-80
- Fish and plants: $30-50
- Total: $200-500