What Grows Best in Aquaponics - Plants for Every Stage

Plants in aquaponics feed on the nutrients your fish produce. A young system produces modest nutrients, so start with plants that don't need much, then add hungrier crops as your fish and bacteria mature.

Easiest: leafy greens

Leafy greens are the backbone of most aquaponics systems and most small aquaponics businesses.

• Lettuce in many varieties: fast, reliable, and easy to sell.
• Kale, Swiss chard, and bok choy: productive and tolerant.
• Spinach: prefers cooler water.
• Watercress: naturally loves wet conditions.

Greens can often be harvested repeatedly or replanted in quick cycles.

Herbs: high value, small footprint

• Basil: fast growing and high value; one of the best cash crops for small growers.
• Mint: vigorous (it will try to take over), easy to sell to restaurants and bars.
• Cilantro, parsley, chives, and oregano: steady sellers at markets.

Herbs often bring more money per square foot than any other crop.

Microgreens

Microgreens are harvested within a couple of weeks and sell for a premium to restaurants and health-conscious shoppers. Many aquaponic growers grow them alongside their main system. They're also a fast way to test local demand.

Fruiting crops for mature systems

Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, squash, and strawberries need more nutrients, especially potassium and phosphorus, and do best in established, heavily stocked systems: usually in media beds that support larger root systems and need trellising.

What to avoid early on

• Root vegetables such as carrots and potatoes generally do better in soil.
• Large, long-season crops tie up space you could use for faster-turning greens.

Planning for sales

If you plan to sell, grow what buyers actually want. Talk to two or three restaurants and a farmers market manager before you plant. Consistent supply of a few crops (like lettuce, basil, and microgreens) usually beats a little of everything.