New Aquaponics System - Nearly Done!

The NFT system draining into 2nd bed

Just checked my last to-do list and I'm doing well.
Both growbeds are operating well. I transplanted some of the cucumbers, tomatoes and lettuces into both the NFT system and the second bed, and upgraded the peppers to sturdier pots, for support.

The "Duckweed" sediment tank

I've added a second sediment tank to grow duckweek, and support pumping solid-free water into the NFT system, so as to not clog it. Currently, the second tank is in need of a bulkhead, to allow for drainage. I've been working the system manually to avoid overflows. The plan is for the first growbed to flood directly from the pond and then drain to the sediment tank that is supporting the duckweed. The duckweed tank will help remove solids from the water pumped to the NFT system.

The NFT system is working great and drains (as a water feature) to the 2nd grow bed. That bed drains through the second sediment tank and back to the pond.

We have been cycling the system for about two weeks. We started checking Ph, alkalinity, nitrites and nitrates. There are still no nitrites or nitrates, but Ph and alkalinity were fine. I need to introduce some ammonia to get some bacteria growing. I believe we'll have fish by tomorrow.

The pond is waiting for fish (duckweed growing)

The NFT System is fed from the duckweed tank.

To do list (this helps keep me on track)...

1. Get fish in the pond (they're on their way)

2. Put the new 2" bulkhead in and plumb the "duckweed tank" to the pond
3. Plumb everything correctly (no more temp fixes) and secure pipes
4. Build filters for both sediment tanks and install.
5. Get some fish food (like not enough duckweed, yet).
6. Fill the system with plants

Wow! That's kindof a short list. That's exciting.