Gardening enthusiasts are always on the lookout for new and innovative ways to grow their favorite vegetables and plants. Aquaponics is one such system that has gained popularity in recent years. It’s a sustainable and efficient way to grow plants and fish together, where the plants use the fish waste as a nutrient source, and in turn, purify the water for the fish. But can you grow garlic and shallot in aquaponics? Let’s find out!
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What are Garlic and Shallots?
Garlic and shallots are both members of the Allium family and are known for their pungent flavor and health benefits. Garlic is a popular ingredient in cuisines all over the world, while shallots are used in French and Asian cuisine. Both are bulb vegetables, meaning they grow underground, and are easy to grow in most gardening systems.
Can You Grow Garlic and Shallots in Aquaponics?
The short answer is yes, you can grow garlic and shallots in aquaponics. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before planting them. Garlic and shallots require a lot of nutrients to grow, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These nutrients can be found naturally in fish waste, making aquaponics an ideal system for growing them. Additionally, both garlic and shallots require well-draining soil, which can be replicated in aquaponics by using a grow bed with a gravel or clay pebble medium.
Here are the steps to grow garlic and shallots in aquaponics:
Step 1: Choose the right variety
There are many varieties of garlic and shallots, so choose the ones that suit your taste and growing conditions. Hardneck garlic is a popular variety that requires a cold climate, while softneck garlic thrives in milder regions. For shallots, French grey shallots and banana shallots are popular choices.
Step 2: Prepare the grow bed
Prepare the grow bed by filling it with a medium like gravel or clay pebbles. This will provide a well-draining soil-like environment for the garlic and shallots to grow in.
Step 3: Plant the cloves or bulbs
Plant the garlic cloves or shallot bulbs in the grow bed, making sure they’re spaced at least four inches apart. Cover them with a thin layer of the medium, leaving the top of the cloves or bulbs exposed.
Step 4: Monitor and maintain the system
Monitor the aquaponics system regularly, making sure the pH and nutrient levels are optimal for plant growth. Garlic and shallots need a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 to grow well. Additionally, make sure the water temperature is between 60°F and 70°F, as these plants prefer cooler temperatures.
Step 5: Harvest and enjoy
Garlic and shallots will be ready to harvest in about 6-8 months after planting. Once the leaves begin to yellow, it’s time to harvest them. Pull them out of the grow bed and allow them to dry for a few weeks before storing them in a cool, dry place.
The Benefits of Growing Garlic and Shallots in Aquaponics
There are many benefits to growing garlic and shallots in aquaponics, including:
They’re easy to grow and require minimal maintenance.
Aquaponics provides a nutrient-rich environment for the plants to grow in.
You get a continuous supply of fresh garlic and shallots all year round.
Aquaponics is a sustainable and eco-friendly way to grow plants and fish.
The Bottom Line
Growing garlic and shallots in aquaponics is an excellent way to get a continuous supply of fresh, nutrient-rich vegetables. With the right variety, a well-maintained system, and some patience, you can enjoy the delicious flavor and health benefits of garlic and shallots right from your backyard!
