Frequently Asked Questions

Green Fin has a shelf life of 24 months. 

Green Fin is a mix of composted fish manure and other biologicals like worm and snail castings. Green Fin is a natural byproduct of modern designed living ecosystem. It is not an emulsion, or hydrolysate.  

Green Fin is not a fertilizer, but an amendment. Most of the the nutrients are in a "non available" form.

Green Fin can be used with all mediums: living soil applications, synthetic nutrient applications, indoor, and outdoor. It is great for compost teas and house plants as well. 

During the entire life cycle of all plants!

There are literally millions of beneficial organisms living inside the bottle. Just like your stomach needs a diverse set of bacteria. Your soil and plants need the same diverse set of bacteria. Green Fin is the best at replenishing and revitalizing because it has the best and most robust beneficial bacteria.  Our proprietary systems have been producing since 2017!   

Please refer to our usage chart. 

No, plants will not burn or die from over feeding. 

Amendments and fertilizers serve different purposes in gardening and agriculture.

Amendments are substances added to soil to improve its physical properties, such as increasing its fertility, structure, and water-holding capacity. Amendments can include organic materials such as compost, peat moss, and manures.

Fertilizers, on the other hand, are substances added to soil to provide essential nutrients to plants. Fertilizers can be inorganic, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.  They can also be organic, such as bone meal and blood meal. Fertilizers are used to supplement soil nutrients and support plant growth, while amendments are used to improve soil quality.

Available macronutrients are plant nutrients that are immediately soluble in water and can be absorbed by plant roots. These include nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), which are typically the three primary elements listed on fertilizer packages. These nutrients are essential for plant growth, and their absence or deficiency can limit growth or result in other problems, such as yellowing leaves or stunted growth. 

Non-available nutrients are those that are not readily soluble in water and are not immediately accessible to plants. This includes micronutrients such as iron, magnesium, and calcium, as well as other elements like sulfur and manganese. These nutrients are important for plant health, but they are typically present in the soil in forms that are not immediately accessible to plants. In order to make these nutrients available, they must undergo a series of chemical reactions that make them soluble, a process that can take several months or longer. 

In general, the use of fertilizers containing available macronutrients is more common in agriculture and horticulture because it provides a quick and effective solution to addressing plant nutrient deficiencies. On the other hand, fertilizers containing non-available macronutrients are typically used in long-term soil improvement programs and in cases where soil nutrient levels are very low and need to be built up over time. 

Making non-available nutrients available to plants typically requires the addition of organic matter to the soil, which can help improve soil structure and fertility. This can be achieved through the following methods:

1. Composting: Adding compost to soil can help to improve soil structure and fertility, and make non-available nutrients more accessible to plants. Compost is made by breaking down organic matter like leaves, grass clippings, and food scraps, and it contains a variety of micronutrients that can help support plant growth.
2. Cover cropping: Cover cropping is the practice of planting crops specifically for the purpose of improving soil health. Cover crops like clover, alfalfa, and buckwheat can add organic matter to soil and help to make non-available nutrients more accessible to plants.
3. Liming: Liming involves adding ground limestone or other sources of calcium to soil to help make non-available nutrients like iron and magnesium more available to plants. Liming can also help to adjust soil pH, which can affect the availability of different nutrients.
4. Fertilizer application: Fertilizers containing micronutrients can also be added to soil to help make non-available nutrients available to plants. These fertilizers can be applied directly to the soil, or they can be added to water and applied as a foliar spray.

It's important to note that soil improvement is a gradual process and can take several months or even years to achieve the desired results. Regular soil testing can help to monitor progress and determine when additional organic matter or fertilizers may be needed.

Beneficial bacteria play a crucial role in aquaponic systems by establishing a balanced ecosystem. They help to convert the waste produced by fish into usable nutrients for plants. This process, known as the nitrogen cycle, involves the conversion of toxic ammonia produced by fish waste into nitrite and then into nitrate, which can be absorbed by plants as a source of nitrogen.

In addition, beneficial bacteria also help to maintain water quality by breaking down organic matter and reducing the presence of harmful pathogens. By creating a symbiotic relationship between the fish, plants, and bacteria, aquaponic systems can be sustained without the need for synthetic fertilizers or frequent water changes.

 The main purposes of beneficial bacteria include:

1. Decomposition: Beneficial bacteria help to break down organic matter and convert it into usable forms of nutrients that can be absorbed by plants. This helps to maintain soil fertility and improve soil structure.
2. Nitrogen fixation: Some species of beneficial bacteria are able to convert atmospheric nitrogen into usable forms of nitrogen that can be absorbed by plants. This process, known as nitrogen fixation, is essential for maintaining soil fertility and supporting plant growth.
3. Pathogen control: Beneficial bacteria can also help to control plant pathogens by competing with harmful bacteria and fungi for nutrients and space. In this way, they can help to maintain plant health and reduce the incidence of disease.
4. Pollination: Some species of beneficial bacteria can help to improve pollination by attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies to flowers. This can help to increase crop yields and improve the overall health of plant populations.
5. Waste treatment: In industrial and agricultural settings, beneficial bacteria can be used to treat waste and remove harmful pollutants. For example, they can be used in wastewater treatment plants to remove nitrogen and phosphorus from waste water.

Overall, beneficial bacteria play a crucial role in maintaining the health of ecosystems and supporting sustainable agriculture and horticulture practices. By promoting healthy soil and plant growth, they can help to improve food security and support sustainable land management practices.

Nitrification is a biological process that occurs in soil, water, and wastewater treatment systems and involves the conversion of ammonium (NH4+) to nitrite (NO2-) and then to nitrate (NO3-). This process is important for maintaining the health of aquatic ecosystems and for reducing the levels of nitrogen in wastewater and other types of waste.

The nitrification process is carried out by two types of bacteria: nitrosomonas and nitrobacter. Nitrosomonas bacteria convert ammonium to nitrite, while nitrobacter bacteria convert nitrite to nitrate.

The conversion of ammonium to nitrate occurs in two steps:

1. Oxidation of ammonium to nitrite: Nitrosomonas bacteria oxidize ammonium to nitrite using oxygen. This reaction is exothermic and releases energy, which the bacteria use to grow and reproduce.
2. Oxidation of nitrite to nitrate: Nitrobacter bacteria oxidize nitrite to nitrate, also using oxygen. This reaction releases more energy, which the bacteria can use to grow and reproduce.

Nitrification is an important process because nitrate is a more stable and less toxic form of nitrogen. Nitrate is less likely to volatilize and evaporate, and it is also less likely to contribute to the growth of harmful algae in aquatic systems.

Overall, the nitrification process is a crucial part of the nitrogen cycle, which helps to maintain the health of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems and supports sustainable waste management practices.

 Aquaponics is important for several reasons:

1. Sustainable food production: Aquaponics combines traditional aquaculture (fish farming) with hydroponics (soilless plant cultivation) to create a closed-loop system that is highly efficient and sustainable. In this system, waste produced by fish is used to fertilize plants, and the plants, in turn, help to purify the water for the fish. This reduces the need for external inputs, such as fertilizer and water, and helps to create a more sustainable and self-sufficient food production system.
2. Water conservation: Aquaponics uses much less water than traditional agriculture, as the water in the system is continuously recirculated and reused. This makes it an ideal method for food production in regions where water is scarce or where traditional agriculture is not possible due to lack of water or fertile soil.
3. Reduced waste: In aquaponics, the waste produced by fish is used to fertilize plants, which helps to reduce the amount of waste that must be disposed of. This can help to reduce the environmental impact of food production and support sustainable waste management practices.
4. Reduced chemical use: In traditional agriculture, chemical fertilizers and pesticides are often used to support plant growth. In aquaponics, however, the waste produced by fish is used to naturally fertilize the plants, reducing the need for chemical inputs. This can help to reduce the environmental impact of food production and support sustainable agriculture practices.
5. Increased food security: Aquaponics can help to increase food security by producing food locally, even in regions where traditional agriculture is not possible. This can help to reduce the need for food imports, which can be expensive and unreliable, and help to ensure that local communities have access to a stable food supply.

Overall, aquaponics is an important and innovative method of food production that offers many benefits over traditional agriculture. By combining aquaculture and hydroponics, it creates a highly efficient and sustainable system that can help to improve food security, conserve water, reduce waste, and promote sustainable agriculture practices.

The nutrient-rich effluent water from aquaponics is an excellent fertilizer for houseplants and gardens, as it contains high levels of essential plant nutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, along with other micronutrients. This water can be used to water indoor and outdoor plants, providing them with the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and development. Here are a few ways in which the nutrient-rich effluent water from aquaponics can benefit houseplants and gardens:

1. Improved plant growth: The high levels of nutrients in the effluent water can promote healthy plant growth, resulting in more vigorous and lush plants.
2. Reduced fertilizer costs: By using the effluent water from aquaponics, gardeners and houseplant owners can reduce or eliminate the need for expensive chemical fertilizers, which can be harmful to the environment.
3. Improved soil health: Over time, the nutrient-rich effluent water can help to improve the overall health of the soil, promoting healthy root growth, improving water retention, and promoting the growth of beneficial microorganisms.
4. Sustainable gardening: Using the effluent water from aquaponics as a fertilizer is a sustainable and environmentally friendly way to grow plants, as it reduces the need for chemical fertilizers and reduces water waste.
5. Reduced plant stress: The consistent and balanced supply of nutrients in the effluent water can help to reduce plant stress, reducing the risk of disease and pest outbreaks and helping plants to better resist environmental stressors.

Overall, the nutrient-rich effluent water from aquaponics is an excellent resource for houseplants and gardens, offering many benefits for plant growth and soil health, and promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly gardening practices.

The answer to whether natural amendments are better than synthetic fertilizers depends on several factors, including the type of plant being grown, soil conditions, and personal preference.

Natural amendments, such as compost, manure, and bone meal, are organic matter that can be added to the soil to improve its fertility and structure. They are often considered a better option because they provide a slow release of nutrients, help improve soil structure and retain moisture, and encourage the growth of beneficial microorganisms in the soil.

Synthetic fertilizers, on the other hand, are chemically manufactured and typically provide a quick release of essential plant nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. They are often used to supplement the soil when it is lacking in certain nutrients.

It is important to note that while synthetic fertilizers can provide quick results, they can also lead to soil and water pollution if not used carefully. Additionally, they can cause imbalances in the soil and discourage the growth of beneficial microorganisms.

Ultimately, the choice between natural amendments and synthetic fertilizers depends on the specific needs of the garden and the gardener's preferences. Both can have their benefits and drawbacks, and it is important to use them in a balanced way to achieve healthy and sustainable gardening practices.

Biodiversity, or the variety of life forms in a given ecosystem, can be measured in several ways, including the number of species, the number of individuals of each species, and the genetic diversity within each species. In general, mature ecosystems tend to have higher levels of biodiversity than younger or less mature ecosystems.

A mature ecosystem is one that has had time to evolve and develop complex interactions between its various components, including plants, animals, microorganisms, and their physical environment. This complexity and stability of interactions results in a greater number of species being able to coexist in the ecosystem, and a greater variety of species with different ecological roles.

For example, a mature forest ecosystem might contain a large number of tree species, each with its own unique set of adaptations to the physical and biological conditions of the forest. In addition, the forest might also contain a variety of herbaceous plants, mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, insects, and microorganisms, all of which play important roles in the functioning of the ecosystem.

However, it's important to note that the amount of biodiversity in a mature ecosystem can be affected by human activities, such as deforestation, pollution, and introduction of non-native species, which can disrupt the balance of the ecosystem and reduce biodiversity.

In conclusion, mature ecosystems tend to have higher levels of biodiversity than younger or less mature ecosystems, due to their stability, complexity, and time for evolution and adaptation. However, human activities can have negative impacts on biodiversity, so it is important to conserve and protect natural ecosystems in order to maintain their biodiversity.

An aquaponics system is an integrated system that combines aquaculture (fish farming) and hydroponics (growing plants in water). In an aquaponics system, the waste produced by the fish provides nutrients for the plants, which in turn help to purify the water for the fish.

In terms of life forms, an aquaponics system typically contains:

1. Fish: Common species used in aquaponics include tilapia, catfish, and trout.
2. Plants: A variety of crops can be grown in an aquaponics system, including leafy greens, herbs, tomatoes, peppers, and more.
3. Bacteria: Beneficial bacteria play a crucial role in the nitrogen cycle, converting the ammonia produced by the fish into nitrates that can be used by the plants.
4. Microorganisms: A variety of microorganisms, including fungi and protozoa, are also present in an aquaponics system, contributing to the overall health and balance of the ecosystem.
5. Invertebrates: Some aquaponics systems may also contain invertebrates, such as snails, to help control algae and other pests.

In addition to these life forms, an aquaponics system also includes the water and air, as well as any materials used to construct the system, such as tanks, pumps, and grow beds. The interplay between these different components helps to create a balanced and sustainable ecosystem that can support both fish and plant life.

"All natural" and "organic" are terms that are often used to describe food and other products, but they have different meanings.

"All natural" is a term that is not regulated by the government, and it is often used to imply that a product contains only natural ingredients and is free from artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors. However, this term does not have a strict definition, and it can be used to describe a wide range of products, including some that contain synthetic or processed ingredients.

"Organic" is a term that is regulated by the USDA, and it refers to products that are grown and processed according to specific standards. To be certified organic, a product must be produced without the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and other prohibited substances, and it must meet other standards related to soil conservation and animal welfare. Organic products are also subject to strict certification and inspection procedures.

In summary, "all natural" is a loosely defined term that is often used to imply that a product is minimally processed, while "organic" refers to products that are produced according to specific, regulated standards that prioritize environmental and animal welfare concerns.

There are several benefits to using natural fertilizers:

1. Sustainable Agriculture: Natural fertilizers are derived from renewable resources, such as compost, manure, and plant material, which can help promote sustainable agriculture by reducing the dependence on non-renewable resources, such as fossil fuels.
2. Improved Soil Health: Natural fertilizers contain a diverse range of nutrients and microorganisms, which can help improve soil health by increasing organic matter levels, promoting beneficial soil microbes, and increasing the availability of essential plant nutrients.
3. Reduced Risk of Pollution: Natural fertilizers are typically less soluble than synthetic fertilizers, reducing the risk of leaching and runoff into water systems, which can help reduce the risk of water pollution.
4. Improved Plant Growth: Natural fertilizers can help improve plant growth by providing a slow and steady supply of essential nutrients, which can promote healthy root development and improve the overall health and yield of crops.
5. Better for the Environment: Natural fertilizers are typically produced using fewer chemicals and less energy than synthetic fertilizers, reducing the overall impact on the environment. Additionally, using natural fertilizers can help reduce the risk of soil and water contamination, helping to protect the environment for future generations.
6. Better for Human Health: Natural fertilizers are generally safer for human health, as they contain fewer chemicals and pollutants than synthetic fertilizers, reducing the risk of exposure to harmful substances.
7. Increased Biodiversity: Natural fertilizers can help promote biodiversity by creating a more favorable environment for a wide range of soil microbes, which can help improve the health and productivity of the ecosystem.

Overall, natural fertilizers offer a range of benefits compared to synthetic fertilizers, including improved soil health, reduced environmental impact, and improved plant growth and yield.

The human gut and natural ecosystems share a number of similarities in terms of the complex communities of microorganisms that reside within them. Both systems are composed of a diverse range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa, that interact with each other and with the host environment to maintain a delicate balance of ecological interactions.

In the human gut, this microbial community is known as the gut microbiome, and it plays a critical role in human health by contributing to digestive processes, supporting the immune system, and regulating metabolism. Similarly, in natural ecosystems, the microbial community is critical for maintaining ecosystem health and productivity, by playing important roles in nutrient cycling, soil formation, and plant growth.

Both the human gut and natural ecosystems are also sensitive to changes in environmental conditions, such as changes in diet or exposure to pollutants, which can disrupt the delicate balance of microorganisms and lead to negative impacts on health and productivity.

In conclusion, the human gut and natural ecosystems share important similarities in terms of the complex communities of microorganisms that reside within them, and the critical role these communities play in maintaining health and productivity. this item.

 Permaculture is a sustainable design framework that originated in the 1970s and is based on the principles of ecology, systems thinking, and ethics. The term permaculture is a combination of the words "permanent" and "agriculture." It seeks to create self-sufficient, regenerative human habitats and food production systems that work in harmony with natural ecosystems.

The main objectives of permaculture are to reduce waste and increase efficiency, promote biodiversity and conservation, and build soil health. Permaculture practices include techniques such as agroforestry, rainwater harvesting, composting, and intercropping.

Permaculture has been applied in various settings, including urban and rural landscapes, to create sustainable food production systems, regenerative landscapes, and self-sufficient communities. It has been used in both developing and developed countries, and has been recognized as a valuable approach to addressing global issues such as climate change, resource depletion, and food insecurity.

Overall, Permaculture offers a holistic and regenerative approach to designing human habitats that promote sustainable and resilient lifestyles. Aquonics is an expample of a permacultre system

Nitrification is a biological process that occurs in soil, water, and wastewater treatment systems and involves the conversion of ammonium (NH4+) to nitrite (NO2-) and then to nitrate (NO3-). This process is important for maintaining the health of aquatic ecosystems and for reducing the levels of nitrogen in wastewater and other types of waste.

The nitrification process is carried out by two types of bacteria: nitrosomonas and nitrobacter. Nitrosomonas bacteria convert ammonium to nitrite, while nitrobacter bacteria convert nitrite to nitrate.

The conversion of ammonium to nitrate occurs in two steps:

1. Oxidation of ammonium to nitrite: Nitrosomonas bacteria oxidize ammonium to nitrite using oxygen. This reaction is exothermic and releases energy, which the bacteria use to grow and reproduce.
2. Oxidation of nitrite to nitrate: Nitrobacteria bacteria oxidize nitrite to nitrate, also using oxygen. This reaction releases more energy, which the bacteria can use to grow and reproduce.

Nitrification is an important process because nitrate is a more stable and less toxic form of nitrogen. Nitrate is less likely to volatilize and evaporate, and it is also less likely to contribute to the growth of harmful algae in aquatic systemsOverall, the nitrification process is a crucial part of the nitrogen cycle, which helps to maintain the health of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems and supports sustainable waste management practices.

A decoupled aquaponics system refers to a type of aquaponics setup where the fish and plant components are separated, and their water and nutrient cycles are kept separate. In a decoupled system, the fish tanks and grow beds are typically not directly connected, and water is pumped between the two systems to transfer nutrients.

The main purpose of decoupling the fish and plant systems is to increase the control and stability of the system. By keeping the fish and plant water separate, it is easier to manage water quality, temperature, and pH levels in each system, which can help to prevent disease, promote plant growth, and improve fish health.

In a decoupled aquaponics system, the fish tanks provide the source of nutrients for the plants, in the form of fish waste. The water from the fish tanks is filtered to remove solid waste, and then pumped to the grow beds, where the plants use the nutrient-rich water to grow. The water is then returned to the fish tanks, where the cycle begins again.

A decoupled aquaponics system also offers greater flexibility in terms of system design and operation, as the two systems can be optimized separately. For example, the grow beds can be designed to maximize plant growth, while the fish tanks can be designed to maximize fish production. This can result in a more efficient and productive system overall.

In summary, a decoupled aquaponics system provides greater control and stability in terms of water quality and nutrient levels, and can result in a more efficient and productive system overall.