Choosing the right filter for your pond, stream, or water feature - David Domoney

Deciding to install a pond, stream, or water feature is a marvellous way of accessing the benefits of water in the garden. But there’s no need to be overwhelmed by the gadgets and technology associated with these garden elements.

What does a filter do? 

Filters in ponds, streams, and water features are used to keep the space clear of algae and debris. But when it comes to choosing a filter, it’s beneficial to consider a few important factors.

The size of the pond and whether there are fish in the pond will have an impact on the filter chosen. Likewise, the one filter may be more suitable than another if there are different elements connected to the pond, watercourse, stream, or water feature. In addition, you must consider how technologically advanced your pond is going to be. For instance, do you want to be able to control your filter system from your smart phone? As well as this, there are the factors involved in fitting the filters. If you want to fit it all yourself, this may affect your final choice.

In fishponds, filters are beneficial because they help to remove waste and debris which in turn helps to maintain the water quality and preserve a healthy eco system. Remember, the fish living in the pond are eating, sleeping, and releasing their waste into the water, so it needs to be kept clean and filtered. Choose a suitable filter for ponds with fish stock such as the BioSmart Set 7000 which is a reliable and flexible addition to the pond. With cleaning handles and a bottom drain, this filter is incredibly easy to clean.

How to choose the right filter

As I mentioned, the filter you choose will depend on many factors. If you’re looking for a filter fit for a stream, a pressure filter like the FiltoClear. This handy filer has no visible technology, meaning it’s easy to conceal, even below the water level. Conveniently, cleaning of this filter also takes place from the outside, so there’s no need to open the lid. The filter can be used individually or matched with a pump.

On the other hand, you may want a filter that puts on a show too. If so , look no further than Filtral UVC 6000 which is an underwater filter for invisible technology. Not only will this filter keep your small pond clean and clear, but the water feature element offers three fountain attachments for different water features. This attachment can be adjusted to suit different water levels.

Living filters

It’s not just filters that can benefit the water quality of ponds, but plants can also have a positive impact too. Rather than just being ornamental additions, semi-aquatic and aquatic pond plants can play the role of living filters. This is because their roots can take up free-flowing compounds like ammonia, nitrates, and phosphates which can have harmful effects on fish if allowed to build up.

Ceratophyllum demersum (hornwort) is a popular pond plant perhaps down to how easy it is to care for and its dark green leaves that have a wonderfully structured appearance. Hornwort can grow up to 3 metres tall, and with its fully submerged growth, it provides much nutrition to the water. Preferring to grow in still or slow-moving fresh water, this is great for a calm garden pond or slow-moving stream.

Similarly, Pistia stratiotes (water lettuce) helps to purify water features. The floating plant adds texture to the surface of the water whilst extracting toxins and impurities. Whilst giving cover and shelter for fish, they propagate by sending out runner which form new, young plants. Preferring a spot in partial shade, this evergreen will thrive.

Therefore, a combination of the right pond plants and a suitable filter is a great way of ensuring your pond is kept clean and cared for.

For your pond, stream, or water feature, choose a pump that ticks all of the boxes. After considering what you want from your pond, you can choose a pump to suit your space.