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40 Best Aquaponics Plants For Your Garden (Ultimate Guide)

Aquaponics Plants

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You saw an article or YouTube video about aquaponics plants, and let’s face it, you have been excited to get started ever since. The idea of being able to produce your own sustainable farm or garden of pure awesome-sauce makes total sense, especially now that all the GMO’s and undesirables continue to enter our food ecosystems every day. But one of the first questions you may be asking yourself is, what are the best aquaponics plants to get started with?

There are many elements of an aquaponics setup you should consider before planting your first seeds. In this article, we’ll take a look at the best aquaponics plants to grow and the benefits they have to offer. Here are the 40 Best Aquaponics Plants to grow for first time and veteran aquaponics practitioners:

  1. Lettuce
  2. Swiss Chard
  3. Cucumber
  4. Pineapple
  5. Chili Peppers
  6. Peas
  7. Brussel Sprouts
  8. Lavender
  9. Oregano
  10. Watercress
  11. Bok Choy
  12. Kale
  13. Arugula
  14. Basil
  15. Mint
  16. Chives
  17. Parsley
  18. Sage
  19. Carrots
  20. Fennel
  21. Spinach
  22. Collard Greens
  23. Rosemary
  24. Tomatoes
  25. Turnip Greens
  26. Thyme
  27. Dill
  28. Marjoram
  29. Peppermint
  30. Coriander
  31. Lemongrass
  32. Cranberries
  33. Chamomile
  34. Celery
  35. Alfalfa Sprouts
  36. Avocado
  37. Cherries
  38. Watermelon
  39. Mushrooms
  40. Cabbage

1. Lettuce

Lettuce in Aquaponics Gardens

Nutrient requirement: Low

What would a salad be without crisp, fresh lettuce? This unmissable classic is one of the best plants for aquaponic systems of all sizes. Growing lettuce using aquaponics is easy as they require little maintenance or nutrients to reach their full glory, making them a great plant to start with.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Lettuce in aquaponics gardens.

2. Swiss Chard

Swiss Chard in Aquaponics Gardens

Nutrient requirement: Low

Add a welcome splash of color to your greens with swiss chard. It’s frost resistant, so it makes the ideal plant to grow during the winter season, and it requires moderate to low nutrients to grow. It’s the perfect starter plant, but equally at home in an established Aquaponics setup.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Swiss Chard in aquaponics gardens.

3. Cucumber

Cucumbers in Aquaponics Gardens

Nutrient requirement: High

When it comes to water content, cucumbers come crashing in at a massive 96 percent. This makes them the perfect plant for any aquaponics system. If you are looking for an aquaponics plant with some substance, cucumber is a great choice and comes in many different sizes and varieties.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Cucumber in aquaponics gardens.

4. Pineapple

Pineapples in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient requirement: High

Okay, so we’ve included this one as a little challenge for you once your system is established and thriving. Pineapples can be tricky to grow as you need to get the temperature and ambient environment just right, but just imagine growing your very own home-grown pineapple! You can even use the leftovers as a culinary substitute in various dishes.

To grow pineapples, you’ll need a large aquaponics system.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Pineapples in aquaponics gardens.

5. Chilli Peppers

Grow Chili Pepper in Aquaponics Gardens

Nutrient requirement: Medium

Once your aquaponics system is established, you can start to get a little bold with your plant selections. Chilli peppers are the world’s most popular spice and offer hundreds of varieties to the serious aquaponics farmer. With so many to choose from, you are sure to find a variety that adapts well to your climate and which matches your personal heat preference. They are also quite easy to manage due to their robust nature and moderate nutrient requirement.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Chili Peppers in aquaponics gardens.

6. Peas

Peas in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient requirement: High

Just when you thought your kids couldn’t get enough, peas are another high nutrient plant for your garden that provides a wealth of health benefits for your family. When you grow plants that have high nutrient requirements such as peas, successful or non-successful cultivation gives you insight into how well you are managing your aquaponics system.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Peas in aquaponics gardens.

7. Brussel Sprouts

Brussel sprouts in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient Requirement: High

Whether you choose Brussel Sprouts as your main entree or side dish, this mini-cabbage look alike packs a tremendous nutrient punch. This crop is suitable to add to your aquaponics gardens three to six months after your system has matured. Patience is the key to grow this high nutrient demand vegetable since you can harvest it three to four months after the initial planting.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Brussel Sprouts in aquaponics gardens.

8. Lavender

Lavender in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Low

Lavender brings simple elegance to any garden. Though this aromatic herb can be a bit tricky to grow, the benefits you will gain from it is worth it. Maintaining a solid drainage system is also vital when cultivating Lavender since this herb is vulnerable to root rot. You can apply a small amount of water but see to it to avoid overwatering.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Lavender in aquaponics gardens.

9. Oregano

Grow Oregano in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Low

This culinary herb is a staple in many kitchens. If you love Mediterranean food, including Oregano in your garden is an opportunity you would not want to miss. The best spot for this frost-tolerant herb is an area with access to full sunlight. To provide your Oregano sufficient airflow, plant your herbs 8 to 10 inches apart. It will also give it enough space to spread.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Oregano in aquaponics gardens.

10. Watercress

Growing Watercress in Aquaponics Gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Low

Adding the herb Watercress to your meal will give it a bit of a spicy flavor to it. This nutritious water-loving herb is one of the great plants to grow in your system. While it enjoys a cool climate, you can place your Watercress in an area where it can savor the full sun.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Watercress in aquaponics gardens.

11. Bok Choy

Growing Bok Choy in Aquaponics Gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Low

Are you a fan of Asian cuisines? Then you are definitely familiar with Bok Choy or White Cabbage. This fast-growing crop is climate tolerant making it an ideal addition to any garden. And similar to its other Mustards family members, Bok Choy is packed with nutrients so growing it in your backyard is an opportunity you wouldn’t want to miss.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Bok Choy in aquaponics gardens.

12. Kale

Growing Kale in Aquaponics

Nutrient Requirement: Low

Vegetable superstar Kale is possible to enjoy in many ways. You will see others relish its flavor as a smoothie, blended as pesto, or eaten raw. The herb has many variants which even include colorful Ornamentals in shades of purple, black-green, and magenta. Even so, adding it to your garden doesn’t only bring color and charm in it. Similar to other members of the Cole Crop family, Kale is also full of nutrients.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Kale in aquaponics gardens.

13. Arugula

Growing Arugula in Aquaponics Gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Low

Another mainstay of vegetable gardens is the herb Arugula. It features a zesty with a bit of a mildly spicy taste that can give a kick to any dish. Arugula is a fast-growing plant that flourishes excellently in cool weather. So, if you want to widen your variety of mixed greens, add this popular herb in your thriving garden.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Arugula in aquaponics gardens.

14. Basil

Growing Basil in Aquaponics Gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Low

Your collection of best aquaponics plants will not be complete without Basil in it. This annual herb is usually green, however, you will find varieties in shades of red and purple. Its most common variety is Sweet Basil which is a staple among Italian cuisines. Basil does not only enhance the taste of your dish but it is also nutritious which is valuable to any diet.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Basil in aquaponics gardens.

15. Mint

Growing Mint in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Low

Cooldown on a hot afternoon with refreshing cocktails such as Cuban Mojito or Mint Julep. Savor these drinks more by adding a soothing Mint that came from your own herb garden. What’s good with this plant is that you can also use it for your main dish, sauces, salads, and desserts. And chewing it fresh will help eliminate bad breath causing bacteria.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Mint in aquaponics gardens.

16. Chives

Growing Chives in Aquaponics Gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Low

Chives is another wonderful herb you must add to your collection of best aquaponics plants. The crop is a member of the onion family but offers a slightly milder taste. It likewise produces purple flowers that work nicely as a garnish or you can also blend with your meals. You can absolutely include the herb in your healthy diet because it is low in calories but rich in vitamins.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Chives in aquaponics gardens.

17. Parsley

Growing Parsley in Aquaponics Gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Low

You probably know Parsley as the usual garnish on top of your food. However, this biennial herb that is popular among Middle Eastern dishes is more than just that. Some of the nutrients this leafy herb contain are Flavonoids, Vitamins C, Fiber, and Protein. While it is best to use its fresh leaves, you can likewise cook with dried leaves of Parsley.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Parsley in aquaponics gardens.

18. Sage

Growing Sage in Aquaponics Gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Low

This Mint family member is more than just an herb reserved for special festivities. While it is the common stuffing for that holiday Turkey, you will be surprised to learn that a lot of Chefs use Sage in their day to day meals. The grayish-green herb is simple to grow plus has been known to lower bad LDL cholesterol.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Sage in aquaponics gardens.

19. Carrots

Growing Carrots in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Medium

Aquaponics is popular among the leafy vegetables but who says you can’t use the same setup in root crops like carrots? Carrots are great as ingredients for stews and casseroles and they’re perfect as healthy raw snacks as well. When growing carrots aquaponically, it’s best to use wicking beds to support downward growth.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Carrots in aquaponics gardens.

20. Fennel

Growing Fennel in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Low

Fennel is one interesting and attractive herb to have around in your garden. Not only can it flavor your dishes but it can also be used to treat abdominal issues and hormone health problems. This makes the herb one of the best aquaponics plants to grow. Fennel loves the sun, so when growing aquaponically, choose a sunny location. Once fennel has established, it doesn’t really require much care.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Fennel in aquaponics gardens.

21. Spinach

Growing spinach in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Low

Spinach rose in popularity since it was introduced as Popeye’s superfood. While eating spinach doesn’t enlarge your muscles, it can still be considered a superfood as it is packed with vitamins and minerals and is low in calories. When growing spinach aquaponically, keep in mind that too much heat and sun can cause bolting and may result in bitter-tasting yield.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Spinach in aquaponics gardens.

22. Collard Greens

Growing collard greens in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Low

If you love kale, then you should consider growing its close relative – the underrated collard greens. These dark green leafy vegetables are a staple in Southern cuisine and can be prepared in different ways. It’s a hardy plant that yields sweet-tasting leaves even when kissed by frost. Collard greens are the perfect, highly nutritious vegetable you can include in your aquaponics garden.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow collard greens in aquaponics gardens.

23. Rosemary

Growing rosemary in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Low

Do you love baked focaccia bread? If you do, then Rosemary is another herb you should consider cultivating in your garden. Growers love adding the plant in rock gardens or using it as a hedge in flower beds. While it is beneficial both in the kitchen and in your system, know that Rosemary too is abundant with antioxidant compounds that enhance our body’s immune system.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Rosemary in aquaponics gardens.

24. Tomatoes

Growing tomatoes in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Low

There is an endless number of ways to prepare tomatoes and include them in your dishes. For this reason, it can be practical to just grow your own tomatoes at home. These plants may be a popular choice for gardeners but there is still a need to know more about its requirements for them to thrive in an aquaponics setup.

25. Turnip Greens

Growing turnip greens in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Low

Turnip greens can be a great addition to your home garden, especially if you love to have some fresh salad on the table. You can grow turnips for the fleshy roots and the dark, nutritious leaves, with some varieties developed specifically for the greens. The great thing about them is that they grow fast; you can harvest the greens within 30-35 days.

26. Thyme

Growing Thyme in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Low

The herb Thyme consists of culinary and ornamental varieties. This beneficial herb does not only enhances the taste of your dish but also provides a distinct earthy tone to your favorite drinks. Thyme likewise offers nutritional benefits valuable to your overall health.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Thyme in aquaponics gardens.

27. Dill

Growing Dill in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Low

Whether you love Dill as a garnish or as a spice to your meal, this beautiful herb will always be an amazing addition to your aquaponics setup. Dill is an annual crop with numerous types so you have plenty of options to choose from. It likewise boasts of various medicinal properties so it is not only useful inside your kitchen.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Dill in aquaponics gardens.

28. Marjoram

Growing Marjoram in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Low

A native of Northern Africa and Turkey, Marjoram is one of the easiest aquaponics plants you should include in your garden. Lots of people believe that Marjoram and Oregano are the same. While the two aromatic herbs resemble each other, keep in mind that these plants have significant differences. In spite of this, the decision to grow Marjoram right in your backyard will bring you numerous health and culinary benefits.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Marjoram in aquaponics gardens.

29. Peppermint

Growing Peppermint in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Low

Peppermint is the most potent herb within the Mint family. The plant contains Menthol which creates its strong flavor. It provides spice to various dishes and desserts like cookies, cakes, and candies. The herb’s health benefits have been traditionally popular for many years. Peppermint is not difficult to cultivate just as long as you observe its simple guidelines.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Peppermint in aquaponics gardens.

30. Coriander

Growing Coriander in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Low

The spice Coriander is an annual plant from the Apiaceae family. It is a staple ingredient in pickling and brining food. Others also enjoy blending the spice in many dishes. However, you will need to dry roast your Coriander seeds and then ground it since these seeds are tough to chew. Aside from being simple to cultivate, consider growing Coriander in your garden for the various health benefits it can give you.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Coriander in aquaponics gardens.

31. Lemongrass

Growing lemongrass in aquaponics gardens

A favorite among Asian cuisines is Lemongrass. This herb is among the best aquaponics plants with nearly 50 species. Lemongrass boasts of medicinal qualities that have been relieving people with stomach issues. When drinking Lemongrass as tea, you can choose either fresh or dried leaves.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Lemongrass in aquaponics gardens.

32. Cranberries

Growing cranberries in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Low

For centuries, people have already known the nutritional benefits of Cranberries. This powerful fruit is a staple ingredient in puddings, cakes, sauces, and muffins. Others love to mix Cranberry juice in cocktails and other beverages. When you grow Cranberries in your garden, it will provide you a steady supply of this superfood.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Cranberries in aquaponics gardens.

33. Chamomile

Growing chamomile in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Low

While Chamomile is famous for its relaxing qualities, consuming the herb likewise brings you other health benefits. Others usually enjoy Chamomile as herbal tea. However, you can also savor its pleasant taste when you blend it in desserts. Chamomile is one of the best aquaponics plants. Once you grow Chamomile in your garden, the plant can help you attract beneficial insects in your system.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Chamomile in aquaponics gardens.

34. Celery

Growing celery in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient Requirement: High

One of the nutritious vegetables you can munch on as a snack is Celery. You can eat it raw, add to your favorite salad, or mix in sandwiches. While it is much easier to buy the veggie at your local market, cultivating Celery in your home garden will be more budget-friendly. Plus, what’s good about the crop is that you can store them in the freezer for three months.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Celery in aquaponics gardens.

35. Alfalfa Sprouts

Growing alfalfa sprouts in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient Requirement: Low

Alfalfa Sprouts are commonly known as livestock feed for centuries. However, over the years, the crop gained popularity, especially among Oriental cuisines. This superfood will require extra care when you cook them to remove possible bacteria hazards. Alfalfa Sprouts are simple to cultivate at home, plus you can harvest them approximately 1 to 2 weeks.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Alfalfa Sprouts in aquaponics gardens.

36. Avocados

Growing avocados in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient Requirement: High

Kickstart your morning by adding Avocados on your breakfast eggs. The Avocado is not only a creamy and tasty fruit but also a highly-nutritious crop. As a matter of fact, this pear-shaped fruit assists in lowering bad cholesterol. You can choose between cultivating Avocado plants or if you have adequate space grow Avocado trees.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Avocados in aquaponics gardens.

37. Cherries

Growing cherries in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient Requirement: High

Many people look forward to summer days when you can finally enjoy the seasonal Cherries. Boasting numerous varieties, the red fruit offers lots of culinary uses. Aside from the usual sauces, salads, and jellies, you can likewise use the fruit as a garnish to desserts and drinks.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Cherries in aquaponics gardens.

38. Watermelon

Growing watermelon in aquaponics gardens

Nutrient Requirement: High

You can’t enjoy summer without taking a bite on the juicy goodness of the Watermelon fruit. Rich in vitamins and comprising of 90% water, you can savor the round green fruit in your usual meals and not just desserts.  You may think with their size, the fruit is difficult to grow. However, you will come to know that Watermelon, which is one of the best aquaponics plants, is simple to cultivate.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Watermelon in aquaponics gardens.

39. Mushrooms

Growing mushrooms in aquaponics gardens

You don’t have to forage in the woods for fresh mushrooms, and you don’t have to wait until fall for them to be prolific in the wild. Growing mushrooms in an aquaponics setup can let you enjoy fresh yields at any time of the year. Unlike plants, mushrooms don’t have roots, so growing them will require a slightly different approach.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Mushrooms in aquaponics gardens.

40. Cabbage

Growing cabbage in aquaponics gardens

Cabbages are cool-season crops that require little maintenance, which is why they’re a favorite to grow in an aquaponics setup. In just 3-4 months, you can enjoy fresh yields. When growing cabbage aquaponically, choose a variety that thrives well in your local climate.

Click here to see our in-depth article on how to grow Cabbages in aquaponics gardens.

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for an alternative to buying GMO packed fruit, vegetables, herbs, and spices that are produced using commercial farming methods, aquaponics is a great option. What’s more, you don’t have to have a large, established setup to get started with some of the easier plants varieties available. 

All of the plants above will work well in your aquaponic system, but there are so many more plants available to you. The best thing is that you can have fun experimenting and learning what works best for you.

Not interested in aquaponics? Here are other great guides on aeroponics, hydroponics, and other sustainable growing systems.

The Campbells love finding sustainable and fun ways to increase their independence from traditional brick and motor supermarkets. Aquaponics provides a full lifecycle food source for families and a great hobby. #aquaponicslifestyle

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