Fundamental principles

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1. Permaculture

Permaculture is a systemic and holistic method that aims to design
resilient systems by drawing inspiration from nature (biomimicry).

It is not a fixed method, but rather a “way of acting” that takes into account the biodiversity of each ecosystem.

Its goal is sustainable agricultural production, highly energy-efficient (both in terms of the use of fossil energy and manual and mechanical work) and respectful of living beings and their reciprocal relationships, while leaving as much room as possible for “wild” nature.

2. The principles of permaculture

We identify with the conceptual approach of permaculture. In line with these values, we seek to design resilient systems through an open and collaborative approach.

Principle 1: Observe and interact

Principle 2: Catch and store energy

Principle 3: Obtain a yield

Principle 4: Apply self-regulation and accept feedback

Principle 5: Use and value renewable resources

Principle 6: Produce no waste

Principle 7: Design from patterns to details

Principle 8: Integrate rather than segregate

Principle 9: Use small-scale solutions and patience

Principle 10: Use and value diversity

Principle 11: Use edges and value the marginal

Principle 12: Use change and respond to it creatively

3. Aquaponics and the nitrogen cycle

Aquaponics is a growing technique that combines fish farming and plant cultivation.

In an aquaponic system [based on a permaculture principle], we strive to reduce waste production as much as possible.

Whether in in-ground or soilless cultivation, beneficial bacteria are important for converting ammonia into nitrites and then into nitrates for plants.

This natural process converts waste into organic food for plants. For this to happen, it is important for the bacteria to have as much biological surface area as possible.

4. The aquaponics glossary

pH: potential of hydrogen
pH measures acidic ions in water. It is important to keep it balanced to promote a healthy ecosystem for fish. An unbalanced pH can cause nutrient deficiencies in plants and promotes the appearance of diseases in fish and plants. For example, a pH that is too high will tend to promote iron deficiencies. This level is measured in real time by a sensor in your tanks.

The nitrogen cycle
This is the essential process in organic agriculture. During this process, bacteria successively and naturally transform organic waste into ammonia, then nitrites, then nitrates, that is, into fertilizer for plants.

Dissolved oxygen or DO
Oxygen is essential to allow fish, bacteria and plants to breathe. The DO level in water can be affected by the presence of algae, high temperature, decomposing matter, or an increase in bacteria.

Carbonates
Water hardness, or the presence of carbonates, is an important factor to consider in an aquaponics system. A high carbonate concentration in water creates a buffering effect, which influences changes in acidity. Mains water is generally hard (KH > 5), unlike rainwater or reverse-osmosis water.

Seasons: temperature and light
As the seasons change, climate variations influence water and air parameters, which affects fish behaviour and vegetable growth. Light is the most limiting factor for plant growth in Northern Europe in winter (short days).

Fish feed: nutrient input
Fish feed is converted into nutrients for your plants. Feed rich in protein and amino acids is essential for the growth of fish and plants.

5. Vertical growing with ZipGrow towers

ZipGrow vertical growing towers provide higher yields than conventional growing techniques. It is the most advanced vertical technology on the market. Designed for maximum production, their single growing face and white colour optimise light reflection and allow high-density growing without artificial light.

Their filter substrate, the growing matrix, provides 960 m²/m3 of specific surface area (3 times more than usual substrates or filtration systems), while also offering large aerobic zones for bacteria and a stabilised temperature that is favourable to roots.

This technology significantly increases the profitability of your greenhouse, whether in bioponics or aquaponics.

6. Bioponics or organic hydroponics

Bioponics (patent nº 05.11569 - 15/11/05) is a method of growing plants without soil by supplying in the water the organic nutrients that plants need. Bioponics is made possible thanks to the growing matrix in ZipGrow towers, which is an alternative to soil, promotes the beneficial growth of bacteria and imitates how organic farming works.

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Important

Bioponic fertilizers are a mixture of organic ingredients, according to the NF U 42-001 standard, containing trace elements and usable in organic farming in accordance with regulation (EC) No 834/2007.

In their composition, you will find organic components such as:

• beet vinasse
• liquid worm-compost extract
• nettle manure
• liquid wood ash extract
• citric acid
• liquid bat guano extract
• iron chelate
• enzyme-producing fungi (Tricoderma)

In bioponics, plant nutrition is made possible by the degradation of a raw nutrient source, under the action of micro-organisms, into a form that can be assimilated by roots.

Water rich in nutrients flows over the roots in a closed system. The water is continuously recycled. The bioponic growing technique uses 90% less water and space compared with conventional gardening.

As a result, plants benefit from faster nutrient absorption, and grow 30 to 50% faster.

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Important

Our solutions can be used either in bioponics or in aquaponics.
Bioponics is recommended for beginner gardeners.