The study compared two methods of treating household wastewater: artificial ponds and vertical-flow constructed wetlands with reeds. The wetlands improved water quality over time, but slightly less effective for removing phosphate. Aeration in ponds improved treatment for ammonia and phosphate. Wetlands were better at removing organic matter and suspended solids. Wetlands were also better at removing ammonia and phosphate compared to ponds without aeration. Aeration in ponds increased nitrate levels due to more oxygen.