How to Use Clay for a Fish Pond

Using clay is a natural and environmentally friendly way to seal the bottom of your fish pond. Compressed clay prevents water leaking from your pond, acting as a natural filtration system at the same time. Unlike flexible liners that can leach unwanted chemicals into your pond water, compressed clay adds natural minerals, vital for keeping fish healthy.

Things You'll Need

  • Clay
  • Sturdy boots
  • Spade
  • Water
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Instructions

    • 1

      Dig a hole for your fish pond. How large a hole depends on how large a pond you want and the size of your garden.

    • 2

      Buy enough clay from your local gardening store to create a 6-inch layer over the base and sides of your pond.

    • 3

      Cover the base and sides of your pond in clay. Mix a little water into the clay and stamp it down with your feet. It is useful to enlist the help of others to stamp as well--it can take some time to compress the clay.

    • 4

      Keep laying and compressing layers of clay until you have used it all up. Fill your fish pond with a little water to see if the clay is watertight. If not, the clay needs to be compressed further.