Aquaponics vs. Traditional Gardening: What Schools Need to Know
As schools increasingly seek innovative methods to engage students in science, sustainability, and nutrition, deciding between starting an aquaponics or traditional gardening program becomes more relevant. Both methods offer unique benefits and learning opportunities, but they also come with distinct challenges. Today, we will briefly explore the key differences, advantages, and considerations for schools looking to incorporate these systems into their current learning programs.
What is Aquaponics?
Aquaponics is a sustainable farming technique that combines aquaculture (raising fish) and hydroponics (growing plants in water without soil) in a symbiotic environment. In an aquaponics system, fish waste provides nutrients for plants, and in return, plants help filter and purify the water for the fish. This closed-loop system creates a balanced ecosystem that can yield fresh produce and fish simultaneously.
What is Traditional Gardening?
Traditional gardening involves growing plants in soil, relying on natural processes, organic fertilizers, and often incorporating companion planting techniques. Schools typically implement traditional gardening in outdoor plots, raised beds, or indoor pots, allowing students to engage in hands-on activities from planting seeds to harvesting crops. Unlike aquaponics, there isn’t an aquaculture component.
Key Differences
1. Resource Use
Aquaponics: An aquaponic system uses significantly less water than traditional gardening, as water is recirculated within the system. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, aquaponics can use up to 90% less water compared to conventional soil gardening; this is a key factor to consider when creating a program that covers sustainability and the environment.
Traditional Gardening: Traditional gardening requires regular watering, and resource use can vary significantly based on local climate and soil quality. It often depends on rainfall and may require additional irrigation.
2. Space Requirements
Aquaponics: In aquaponics, a system can be set up in smaller and indoor spaces, making it ideal for urban or school environments where land is limited. Vertical aquaponics systems can maximize yield in confined areas. With Aquagrove aquaponics, growers have the additional benefit and option to add stackable grow beds, allowing students to double and triple their grow space within a limited area.
Traditional Gardening: As many growers are already aware, traditional gardening will typically require more space, especially for larger crops, which can pose a major challenge for schools with limited outdoor areas.
3. Learning Opportunities
Aquaponics: With AquaGrove, schools receive a guide for getting started, as well as a Learning Guide with resources, links, and lessons to assist educators in integrating core concepts into their current curriculum. Aquaponics offers unique interdisciplinary learning experiences, incorporating biology, chemistry, and environmental science. Students learn about ecosystems, nutrient cycles, and sustainable practices in real-time.
Traditional Gardening: While there are limits on the lessons in sustainability, traditional gardening can provide valuable lessons, including soil health, plant biology, and the importance of biodiversity. It fosters a connection to nature and has the potential to enhance community involvement through school gardens.
Advantages of Aquaponics
Reduced Environmental Impact: In aquaponics, the process is naturally sustainable; it promotes sustainable practices by minimizing water use and eliminating the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides. With AquaGrove’s options for solar-powered systems, schools can decrease their carbon footprint even further.
Year-Round Production: With aquaponics, systems can be operated indoors, allowing for year-round food production, which is particularly beneficial in regions with harsh climates.
Hands-On Learning: Students can directly engage with both plant and aquatic life, fostering a deeper understanding of ecosystems and sustainability.
Advantages of Traditional Gardening
Familiarity and Simplicity: Most educators are already familiar with traditional gardening practices, making implementation straightforward.
Biodiversity: Traditional gardening can support a wider variety of plant species.
Schools should consider how each system aligns with their educational goals and existing learning program. Aquaponics may offer richer opportunities for science integration and expand resources for lessons in sustainability.
Both aquaponics and traditional gardening offer valuable educational experiences for students. The choice between them should be based on the specific needs, resources, and goals of each school. By understanding the strengths and challenges of each system, educators can make informed decisions that enhance learning and promote sustainability in their communities.