How to Make a Natural Pond Filter With Sand & Gravel

Making a natural pond filter with sand and gravel is an environmentally friendly way to keep pond water fresh. This is important whether the pond contains fish or not; without a filtration system, the water will become stagnant. Garden ponds are a common yard decoration that contain small decorative plants and often ornamental fish. In addition many ponds also contain rocks, fountains, streams and waterfalls. A natural pond filter will go a long way toward keeping a pond fresh and aesthetically pleasing.

Large plastic bucket with lid
Gravel
Sand
Window screen
Silicone sealer
PVC pipe
Utility knife
Hose connector
Water pump

Instructions

- 1
  Clean all materials thoroughly with hot water to remove any residues that could pollute pond.
- 2
  Cut a hole with the utility knife 3 inches from the bottom of the plastic bucket wide enough to fit the PVC pipe through. Cut a large circular incision in the center of the bucket's lid for a pond water entry point.
- 3
  Cut a 3-foot length of PVC and insert it 3 to 4 inches deep into the bucket. Seal around the pipe with waterproof silicone. Attach a 6-foot hose to the outside end of the PVC pipe with a hose connector.
- 4
  Cut a piece of window screen large enough to fit over the top of the bucket.
- 5
  Fill the first third of the bucket with gravel. Fill the second third with sand. Leave the top third empty for water and place the screen across the top. Snap lid firmly onto the bucket.
- 6
  Connect the hose to a pond water pump and place both the filter and pump into the pond. Wait for it to stop bubbling signaling that the sand and water filter is full of water. Switch on the pump.

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