What Can You Plant Over A Septic Tank? (Solved)

Perennials and grasses (including ornamental grasses) work best around your septic tank and drain field.

Shallow-rooted trees and shrubs include:

Dogwood trees.
Japanese maple trees.

Eastern redbud trees.
Cherry trees.
Azalea shrubs.

Boxwood shrubs.
Holly shrubs.
Dwarf tree varieties.

What can you plant on a septic drain field?

Herbaceous plants, such as annuals, perennials, bulbs and ornamental grasses are generally the best choices for use on a septic drain field. Ornamental grasses also offer the advantages of having a fibrous root system that holds soil in place, and providing year-round cover.

What can you plant on top of a septic tank?

Herbaceous plants, such as annuals, perennials, bulbs and ornamental grasses are generally the best choices for use on a septic drain field. Ornamental grasses also offer the advantages of having a fibrous root system that holds soil in place, and providing year-round cover.

Can you plant anything over a septic tank?

Put plastic sheets, bark, gravel or other fill over the drainfield. Reshape or fill the ground surface over the drainfield and reserve area. However, just adding topsoil is generally OK if it isn’t more than a couple of inches. Make ponds on or near the septic system and the reserve area.

Can I plant a garden over a septic tank?

Gardening over septic tanks is not only permissible but also beneficial in some instances. Planting ornamental plants on septic drain fields provide an oxygen exchange and help with evaporation in the drain field area. Plants also help control erosion.

What plants are safe to plant near septic systems?

Here are some example of trees and shrubs with shallow root systems that are safe to plant near your septic system:

Japanese Maple Trees.
Holly Shrubs.

Dogwood Trees.
Cherry Trees.
Boxwood Shrubs.

Eastern Redbud Trees.
Azalea Shrubs.

Can you put mulch over septic tank?

Gardens. Landscape fabric, plastic, bark, or mulch should not be used over your septic system. These materials reduce air exchange while bark and mulch also retain excess moisture. Adding more than a few inches of soil over the drainfield, such as for raised beds, limits air exchange and can lead to compaction.

Why doesn’t grass grow over my septic tank?

Lawn grass species prefer moist, high pH soil, and direct sunlight. Growing grass over a septic tank can be challenging due to the acidic, low-pH soil resulting from sewage runoff into the leach field.

Can you put pavers over a septic drain field?

You can’t build a paver patio on top of a septic tank, and doing so could be against the planning laws of your state or local area. Septic tanks can take very little weight without getting damaged, and you’ll also need access to the tank in the future too. You shouldn’t build a deck on one either.

How do you landscape a septic tank cover?

Find what fits in your yard and climate.

Plant tall native grasses with fibrous roots around the opening to conceal the tank lid from view.
Place a light statue, bird bath or potted plant over the septic lid.
Septic tank risers and covers are an alternative to concrete and blend into green grass.

Can you plant a garden over a septic drain field?

Planting over a septic leach field (drain field) is possible if it is done with care. Growing shallow-rooted plants over the drainage area is recommended because they help remove excess moisture and nutrients from the soil and reduce erosion.

Can you put a raised bed garden over a septic field?

Tip. A raised garden can interfere with the functioning of a septic or drain field. Installing a raised garden bed over the leach lines is not recommended.

Can you put a raised garden bed over a septic tank?

Watch out: do not plant a raised-bed garden over the septic drainfield. Constructing a “raised bed” garden which requires the addition of soil above surrounding ground levels can damage the system or can reduce soil transpiration thus preventing the drainfield from functioning properly.

Can I plant hydrangeas near septic tank?

You would have no problems with the septic 9′ away – the hydrangea roots will extend approx as far as its widest stems, they don’t have an extensive root system.

Can you plant arborvitae near septic tank?

A common hedging plant for narrow spaces is pyramidal arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Fastigiata,’ or its greener cultivar ‘Emerald Green’). From my observation, it forms a dense root mass that would run into the septic field unless contained, but could provide a decent screen with a confined root run.

Can lilacs be planted near a septic tank?

Since lilac root systems are shallow, they can only reach the base of shallow foundations. If you have a deep foundation, there is little risk of damage. If you’ve planted your lilac shrub 8 to 10 feet (2.5-3 m.) from water and sewer lines, however, there is little risk of damage, even if the pipes have cracks.

Is it okay to plant a garden over a leach field?

Planting over a septic leach field (drain field) is possible, but it must be done with caution to avoid contamination. If you just have a little amount of garden area on your home, the leach field may be the only place you can plant flowers or vegetables. Growing shallow-rooted plants over the drainage region is advised since they aid in the removal of surplus moisture and nutrients from the soil as well as the reduction of soil erosion. A range of different herbaceous perennials, annuals, and groundcovers can be safely and efficiently planted in addition to turf grass, which is the most common choice.

About Septic Systems

The majority of residences in rural regions, where city sewer connections are not readily available, have their own septic systems, which are comprised of a septic tank and a leach field. The septic tank decomposes organic matter and removes oil, grease, and particles from the waste water generated by a home. Septic tank effluent is released to an underground network of perforated pipes, which allow the liquid to gently flow back into the surrounding soil. Water that percolates through the soil and into the water table in a well working septic system is free of hazardous bacteria and nutrients before it reaches the water table.

Planting Considerations

Planting over a leach field requires special care since plant roots can block drain pipes and cause damage to the drain field, which can be a costly problem to repair after it has occurred. Several herbaceous perennials are relatively risk-free choices since their roots will not grow deep enough to reach the sewer lines. Because they require less irrigation and because their roots will not seek to penetrate the continually moist soil around the drain pipes, drought resistant plants are favored.

Additional considerations include minimizing the quantity of water supplied over the leach field, since saturated soil can inhibit effluent evaporation and increase the likelihood of groundwater pollution.
Solid woody plants have deeper roots that have the potential to clog drain lines in a very short period of time.
Planting a tree towards the end of the drainage line, where there is less water to attract the roots in the direction of the leach field, is an option if you absolutely must.

The roots of a tree will normally reach at least as far from the trunk as the tree’s height from the ground.
The detergents and cleaning chemicals that are flushed down the toilet are often alkaline, and this can cause the pH of the soil to rise over time.
Furthermore, residential effluent typically contains significant quantities of sodium, particularly if you use a water softener.

It is not a good idea to plant vegetables over a leach field.
A further consideration is that many vegetable gardeners are apprehensive about growing their food plants on soil that is regularly contaminated with household pollutants.

Unfortunately, building raised beds over the drainage region is also not a viable option. The increased soil depth created by the beds may reduce evaporation and reduce the effectiveness of the septic system’s efficacy.

Suggested Perennials

Astilbe	Astilibespecies
Barrenwort	Epimediumspecies
Barren strawberry	Waldsteinia ternata
Beardtongue	Penstemon digitalis
Black-eyed-Susan	Rudbeckia hirta
Blanket flower	Gaillardiaspecies
Blazing star	Liatrisspecies
Butterfly milkweed	Asclepias tuberosa
Catmint	Nepeta racemosa
Columbine	Aquilegiaspecies
Cranesbill	Geraniumspecies
Daylily	Hemerocallisspecies
Dianthus	Dianthusspecies
Globe thistle	Echinops ritro
Goldenrod	Solidagospecies
Hens and chicks	Sempervivumspecies
Hosta	Hostaspecies
Knautia	Knautia macedonica
Lamb’s ears	Stachys byzantina
Lupine	Lupinusspecies
Moss phlox	Phlox subulata
Mullein	Verbascum species
Poppy	Papaverspecies
Purple coneflower	Echinacea purpurea
Russian sage	Perovskia atriplicifolia
Spurge	Euphorbiaspecies
Stonecrop	Sedumspecies
Tickseed	Coreopsis species
Wild bergamot	Monarda fistulosa
Woodland sage	Salvia nemerosa
Yarrow	Achilleaspecies

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Growing Over Septic Tanks: Choosing Plants To Grow On A Septic System

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Growing Over Septic Tanks

What is a septic drain field, and how does it work? Basically, it’s a more environmentally friendly alternative to sewer systems, which are typically found on rural estates. A septic tank is a device that separates solid waste from liquid waste. Liquid waste is transported underground through long, broad, perforated pipes that are buried deep into the ground. The wastewater is discharged gradually into the soil, where it is broken down and cleansed by bacteria before finally reaching the groundwater table and entering the water supply.

It is critical, however, to select the appropriate plants for growing on a septic system.

Septic Field Plant Choices

Whether or whether it is safe to produce vegetables on a septic field is a matter of disagreement. Root vegetables should be avoided at all costs, and mulch should be laid down to prevent wastewater from splashing up on leaves and fruit throughout the growing season. Really, if you have another location where you can grow your veggies, it is preferable to do it there. Flowers and grasses are a better option than shrubs. Due to the fact that the perforated pipes are typically 6 inches (15 cm) below ground, plants that are suitable for septic systems have shallow roots.

If possible, consider plants that require little maintenance and don’t need to be divided every year – this will assist to decrease pedestrian traffic.

Butterfly weed, Sedum, Lily of the Nile, Tulip, Daffodils, Hyacinth, Crocus, Foxglove, Black eyed Susan, Primrose, and more flowers

When planting on a septic drain field, restrict digging to a bare minimum and use gloves at all times to avoid contamination. This page was last updated on Learn more about Flower Garden Maintenance in General.

What Should You Plant Over the Septic System?

Among the plants seen here are creeping phlox, dwarf boxwood, hebe,thyme, and iris, all of which are deemed acceptable for planting over a septic field.

Interested in Onsite Systems?

Get articles, news, and videos about Onsite Systems delivered directly to your email! Now is the time to sign up. Plus, there are Onsite Systems. Receive Notifications As you go about your daily pumping rounds, you’ve seen the many different ways that homeowners may sabotage their septic systems by using bad landscaping or making other ill-informed land-use decisions. When the driveway becomes overcrowded, people park their automobiles on top of the septic system. They build a wooden deck over the septic tank, making it difficult for you to get to it.

They promote root infiltration, soil compaction, and broken and damaged drainlines, and then wonder why they’re having trouble maintaining the septic tank.
On Bowen Island in the British Columbia province of Canada, there is a landscape and garden designer by the name of Wynn Nielsen.

A presentation on landscaping around a septic system was recently prepared by Nielsen to assist disgruntled property owners – who may not be aware that they have a septic system or who may not even be aware that they do have one – who are confused about how their system operates.
In Nielsen’s experience, landscaping designers are often late to the game when properties are being developed, because landowners have formed preconceived views about how they want to use their lots before the designers arrive.
According to her, “septic fields tend to occupy the most appealing portions of a lot, and people tend to want to utilize them.” “People want to build patios, decks, and hot tubs on their properties.

I’m the one who has to break the terrible news to you that you won’t be able to accomplish that without causing damage to the septic field.
“It would be wonderful if there were greater awareness of the end-user.” The majority of pumpers are gearing up for the start of the hectic season.
Some of Nielsen’s presentation may be useful in explaining how each planting option might affect the effective usage and lifetime of a customer’s septic system to them in your presentations.

Additionally, Nielsen has these words of wisdom for septic pumpers and installers: If homeowners have a lot of questions and worries regarding their landscaping, they should not be shy about calling in an expert.

STEER CLEAR OF THESE

Your knowledge of the first guideline of planting around a septic system includes knowing to avoid thirsty plants that have deep roots. Water-loving trees such as willows, birch, silver maple, elm, beech, walnut, and linden, according to Nielsen, should be kept at a safe distance from homes. The use of aggressive, dense ground coverings that will interfere with the evaporation process, such as pachysandra, cotoneaster and periwinkle, is discouraged, according to her. Others to stay away from because of their aggressive roots include vines and wisteria, as well as bittersweet, morning glory, campsis, and hops.

Any species of bamboo
Any plants with very strong lateral root development

Any other trees with a particularly strong lateral root growth Pond grasses that thrive in water and grow in vast quantities
Clematis native to the area (self-seeding)
Cedars (with the exception of genetic dwarfs)

Vinca stolonifera

Any species of bamboo; any trees with very strong lateral root development; any other trees with a particularly strong lateral root growth; Lactiferous pond grasses that grow in vast quantities in water Clematis (self-seeding) that is indigenous to the area. Except genetic dwarfs, cedars are a good choice. Vegetable vines with a woody texture.

GO AHEAD AND PLANT THESE

While typical lawns are permitted for use over septic systems, Nielsen notes that many homes are moving away from that type of ground cover that requires a lot of upkeep and requires a lot of water. She cites a few grass kinds that are commonly considered to be superior than others. Alternatives that are less risky include:

Eco-grass and fescues that have been pre-mixed
The tufted fescues, the feather grass, the pennisetum, and the deschampsia are examples of small grasses. Plants that look like grass, such as mounding mondo grass, liatris, liriope, and armeria

“Lawns are not particularly environmentally friendly. Most animals do not thrive in them, but we still have children and dogs, who enjoy running about on them,” she explains. “They are also a terrific location for youngsters to play.” As an alternative to standard lawns, Nielsen advises drought-tolerant plants with short, fibrous root systems that are hardy in your area and can thrive in both sun and shadow situations, depending on the situation. Her top recommendations include the use of microclover/ecograss/carex pensylvanica dwarf, the introduction of white clover, carpets (thyme, sedums, low-growing ground coverings), shallow, short/soft rooted perennials, bulb/corm/rhizome/tubers in lawns, and moss in the landscape.

Another option for adding interest to the landscape without putting the septic system at danger is to intersperse annuals or bulbs throughout the ground cover, according to Nielsen.

Furthermore, the newer dwarf tree and shrub kinds do not pose the same threat as their larger counterparts.

Cedars, cherry, crabapples, dogwoods, cotinus, cercis, snowbell, acer palmatum, acer grisem, and acer amur are among the trees that grow in the area. Fibrous root systems are found in a variety of shrubs including boxwood, potentilla, daphne, and choisya, as well as the euonymous and hebe.

CONSIDER LAND USAGE

Most of the time, homeowners employ Nielsen to design a landscaping plan after a site has been created and a home has been constructed. Developers and septic installers, on the other hand, should incorporate a landscape designer earlier in the process in order to ensure the greatest possible use of the site, according to Nielsen. According to Nielsen, the position of the septic field is frequently dictated by the land’s topography, and it is typically the flattest, sunniest section of the property that is also the greatest location for intensive horticulture.

“These choices have a negative impact on their capacity to use property that they have paid a lot of money for, which is unfortunate,” Nielsen adds.

They aren’t considering how the homeowner will wish to make use of the property while making their decisions.

Nielsen hopes to educate residents about septic systems and perhaps preserve a few septic systems as a result of her landscaping presentation and getting to know the pumping specialists on Bowen Island she is visiting.

Landscaping Around a Septic System: Do’s and Don’ts

Most of the time, homeowners employ Nielsen to design a landscaping plan after a site has been created and a house has been constructed. While Nielsen believes that involving a landscape designer earlier in the process will result in the greatest possible use of a property, he does not believe that this is always the best practice. According to Nielsen, the position of the septic field is frequently dictated by the land’s topography, and it is typically the flattest, sunniest section of the property that is also the greatest location for extensive landscaping.

It’s terrible that these decisions may sometimes make it difficult for people to utilize property that they have spent a lot of money for, according to Nielsen.

” This means they aren’t thinking about how the homeowner will wish to make use of the land.

Landscaping Do’s and Don’ts

Plants that do not require a lot of water should be used. This stops plant roots from looking for water and interfering with your system’s functionality. Make use of herbaceous plants with shallow roots, such as flowers and ground cover. When planting quarts, gallons, or plugs, make sure to keep your plants somewhat near to one another to prevent erosion. This will help restrict the growth of weeds. If you have any trees or shrubs growing in your yard in the future, consider how their development may impede access to the septic tank lids, leach field, and sprinkler system. Using a potted plant, riser cover, or lawn ornament just above your access hatch, you may mark the position of your access hatch. When it comes time to dig it up, it will be much simpler to do so. Allow tall Kentucky bluegrass or another type of lawn to grow over the plot of ground that serves as a septic tank cover. Consider the benefits of growing perennials. Because both grasses and perennials have a shallow root structure, they should have no negative impact on your tank or drain field. Make use of tiny, non-woody groundcovers to disguise weeds. Think about planting shallow-rooted trees and vegetation (such as cherry trees, dogwood trees, holly bushes, azalea shrubs, and boxwood shrubs) in the area around your septic system, but make sure they are at least 10-15 feet away from the tank.

Get so concerned about plants and grasses hurting your septic tank that you completely demolish the surrounding region. Some grasses and plants are particularly effective at collecting excess rainwater surrounding the drain field, hence reducing the likelihood of drainage problems. Overwatering your lawn may encourage freshly planted plants to flourish more quickly. Overwatering can cause soil to contract over your leach field, which can cause your septic system to get clogged. Root vegetables can be grown in the vicinity of your system. If these nutrient-absorbing plants are planted too near together, they may cause problems with microorganisms.

Install plastic sheeting or ponds to keep the water out. These characteristics obstruct effective drainage from the tank to the leach field. Overlook the septic tank or leach field and construct walkways and high-traffic routes
Don’t forget that the placement of fencing and gates might have an impact on septic pumper truck access. The hoses on the truck are quite heavy, and we do not recommend that you use them to cross fences. The majority of pumpers like to have access within 50 feet of their vehicle. Planting plants or trees around the septic system is a good idea. Forestry professionals recommend planting trees 20 feet or more away from water, but trees that are known to hunt for water should be planted 50 feet or more away from water. Planting shrubs near the system is a good idea. Vegetables that are nutrient-rich can be grown on a septic system. However, contamination is a worry depending on how efficiently your soil filters microorganisms, even if it appears to be excellent for a garden. Susan Day, an expert on urban forestry at Virginia Tech, advocates planting aboveground veggies rather than root vegetables in close proximity as a safeguard. Disrupt the drainage system by constructing ponds, using plastic sheeting, or planting plants that require a lot of upkeep. Increase foot traffic in regions that are already established. The greater the amount of foot traffic, the more compacted the earth gets.

Plants Safe to Grow Over Septic Tanks and Drain Fields

As long as you choose the landscaping for the region around your septic system with care, you won’t have to be so concerned about the possibility of septic system damage caused by roots that you refrain from planting in these places entirely. It is not only permissible, but really desirable, to cultivate the appropriate kind of plants in this location. Plants will help to prevent erosion and will also help to absorb some of the surplus rainwater from the drainage system. The ideal plants to use around your septic tank and drain field are perennials and grasses (including decorative grasses).

Small, non-woody ground coverings are a wonderful choice for the same reason: they are low maintenance.

It is not safe to consume food crops that have been planted in the ground near a drain field since doing so may result in the consumption of hazardous microorganisms.

It is preferable to plant shallow-rooted plants and bushes in the vicinity of septic tank drain fields if you really must. The following are examples of shallow-rooted plants and shrubs:

Dogwood trees, Japanese maple trees, Eastern redbud trees, cherry trees, azalea shrubs, boxwood shrubs, and holly shrubs are examples of ornamental trees and shrubs.

The Worst Plants to Grow Over Septic Systems

Planting huge, rapidly growing trees is often discouraged. However, some of the greatest offenders are trees and shrubs with root systems that are aggressively seeking out sources of water, which makes them particularly difficult to control. They are not picky about the water source from which they draw their water, which means the pipes in your septic tank drain field are completely fair game. Weeping willow trees are a well-known example of this. There are several trees and bushes to avoid, however the following are only a few examples:

The following are examples of plants and trees: Pussywillow bushes, Japanese willow shrubs, Weeping willow trees, Aspen trees, Lombardy poplar trees, Birch trees, Beech trees, and Elm trees The majority of maple trees, with the exception of Japanese maples
American sweetgum trees

Ash trees
Tulip trees

It is advised that a layer of vegetation, such as a lawn, be placed over the drain field to help hold the dirt in place and boost the effectiveness of the system. Certain principles, on the other hand, should be followed in order to avoid costly and unpleasant situations. Perhaps the greatest piece of advise would be to keep trees and bushes out of the landscaping surrounding this location. The most important factor should be the best possible functioning of your septic system, but each homeowner will need to do a cost/benefit analysis of the plants they choose on an individual basis.

If you suspect that encroaching tree roots are causing damage to your system, please contact us at (951) 780-5922 as soon as possible.

Planting On Your Septic Systems, Landscaping Ideas for Your Drain Field

It is advised that a layer of vegetation, such as a lawn, be placed over the drain field to help hold the dirt in place and improve the effectiveness of the system overall. A few principles, on the other hand, should be followed in order to avoid costly and unpleasant outcomes. Most likely, the greatest piece of advise would be to keep all trees and bushes out of the landscape surrounding this location. Obviously, the best possible functioning of your septic system should be your first priority, but each homeowner will need to do a cost/benefit analysis of the various plants they want to use on their property.

We encourage you to contact us immediately at (951) 780-5922 if you believe that encroaching tree roots are causing damage to your system.

Landscaping and Planting Ideas for your Septic Drain FieldSeptic Tank

Water is a precious resource in most rural and regional parts of British Columbia, and access to a public sewer system can be difficult to come by in many of these locations. As a result, many households and businesses in British Columbia require a septic system in order to function properly – both to conserve water and because there are no other waste disposal choices available when outside of the city sewage system. If your family or business relies on a septic system to manage waste, you will be acutely aware of the financial outlay you have invested in the system’s purchase, installation, and ongoing maintenance.

Because of this, it is critical to understand not just how your septic system works, but also how landscaping and planting can have an influence on the lifetime of your septic field.

What is the operation of a septic drain field?
The wastewater from your toilet, shower, kitchen sink, dishwasher, and washing machine runs to your septic system if your house or company does not have connection to a public sewer.
So, how exactly does a septic system function?

In your septic system, waste gradually separates, with liquids rising to the top and solid, inorganic waste (such as sand, synthetic fibers, and small pieces of plastic) settling to the bottom as sludge as time goes on.
Tank sludge must be pumped out at regular intervals, often every few years, to guarantee that the septic system continues to work effectively and lasts for an extended period of time.
The sewage system, as well as recycling This’soil absorption area’ is also referred to as a leach field or a septic drain field, depending on who you ask.

After a few preliminary phases, the ultimate treatment and distribution take place in this location.

(See Figure 1).

It is necessary for the effluent to drain at a sufficient rate in order for the organisms to operate efficiently.

Observations on Mound Systems In certain septic systems, such asAbove Ground Septic Systems or Sand Mound Septic Systems, the drain field is elevated above ground in an artificial mound, allowing for better drainage.

In regions where specific environmental factors (such as a high water table, shallow soil cover, and/or when the land drains too rapidly or too slowly) preclude the installation of a standard septic system, the system was created to address these issues.

Mound systems operate in much the same way as typical below-ground systems; however, the mound itself must be stabilized in order to prevent erosion and other disturbances that might cause damage to the drain field.

Septic Field Landscaping, is it necessary?

In a nutshell, sure. There are a variety of factors contributing to this. Perhaps most persuasive is the fact that planting on a septic drain field can assist to stabilize the region and lessen the likelihood of the soil cover eroding in the future. Erosion can cause damage to the drain field, which can be extremely expensive to repair because the drain field is often the most expensive component of a septic system. Besides that, plants have the ability to take surplus nutrients and moisture from the soil.

The capillary action of the vegetation’s roots will also suck some of the wastewater out of the soil, which will aid in not only cleaning the water but also in removing some of the soil moisture from the environment.
The planting of grass or low root plants is often required by code to aid in transpiration, erosion management (as previously indicated), and to provide insulative characteristics in cold areas, among other things.
Landscape design over the septic tank will conceal the lids and access locations, while planting on the septic field will provide you with a lush grass and abundant plant life.

Planting on your septic drain field with the appropriate grasses and plants not only improves the performance of the system, but it also completely conceals any underground infrastructure.
Because the root systems of some plants can penetrate and cause damage to the pipes or other components inside the drain field, this is a major reason for this.

So, what should you consider when planting on a septic drain field?

In an ideal situation, you would choose plants that would fulfill your house or business landscaping needs while also maintaining the drain field as free of deep-rooted vegetative or weather risks as feasible. Finding out about a plant’s rooting tendencies and water requirements is the most straightforward approach to determine whether or not it is suitable for a drain field. Look for shallow-rootedherbaceous plants that are already established in your location or that have been acclimated to the average rainfall quantities in your region.

Choosing flora that is both shallow-rooted and drought-tolerant will help you to decrease your effort to a bare minimum totally. These kind of plants should require little to no watering, if any at all.

Some of the plants that are safe for your drain field are:

Holly shrubs, boxwood shrubs, azalea shrubs, Holly Hocks, wild violets, and spring bulbs are some of the options.

Some trees that are septic safe, including fruit trees, include:

Dogwood trees, Japanese maple trees, Eastern Redbud trees, and cherry trees are examples of such trees.

Eastern Red Bud Trees, Dogwood Trees, and Cherry Trees are examples of trees native to the United States.

Some of the worst plants and trees to cover a septic drain field or septic tank are:

Pussy Willow Shrubs, Japanese Willow Shrubs, Aspen Trees, Lombardy Poplar Trees, Birch Trees, Elm Trees, Maple Trees (other than Maple Trees), American Sweet Gum Trees, Ash Trees, Tulip Trees, Walnut Trees, Willow Trees, Cypress Trees, and Pine Trees are some of the plants that grow in this area.

It is also not suggested to grow shrubs with extensive root systems, such as Caryopteris (also known as Bluebeard or blue mist spirea). Planting vegetation with a deep root structure, water-loving roots that will develop aggressively deep and perhaps block or harm the pipes in the septic drain field is something you should avoid. As previously stated, septic systems – especially the drain field – may be quite expensive to repair. Furthermore, a faulty system might get extremely clogged and can have a negative influence on the environment.

(For example, avoid planting immediately before a major rainstorm.) You want the plants to establish themselves fast in order to reduce the likelihood of soil erosion.

Irritating the drain field can cause the soil to become saturated to an unacceptably high degree, preventing the effluent from evaporating and, as a result, increasing the likelihood of groundwater pollution.

Maintaining septic drain field vegetation

As much as you may want to plant over the drain field so that it integrates smoothly with your landscape and you forget that it exists, this is not the ideal option in most cases. Maintain visibility of your drain field, or make people aware of it through other methods, such as a plant barrier or fence. Holding big social events is discouraged; mowing the grass is OK; however, foot traffic should be kept to a minimum. If you are unclear of any potential conditions that might have a detrimental impact on your system, always consult with your Septic System Installer.

This is OK, as long as they are at least 50 feet away from your septic system and drain field, which is recommended.

Keep these trees at least 20 feet away from the septic tank and drain field, or as far away as the mature height of the tree allows you to go.

Can I plant a vegetable garden over the Septic System?

Because of the wastewater that seeps into the soil through the drain field pipes, the soil can become extremely wet and nutrient rich. The thought of using this by planting a fruit or vegetable garden over a drain field may seem like a good idea at first glance. Unfortunately, this is not encouraged – especially when it comes to creeping plants and root crops like turnips. Due to the fact that the vegetation will be in close contact with soil that is likely to be contaminated with disease-causing organisms such as viruses and bacteria, this is the case.

However, leafy crops that grow near to the ground are also at danger of contamination because irrigation water that has spilled onto the foliage might contaminate the foliage.
In general, the higher the crop is in height, the smaller the chance of contamination is to be found.
It is quite likely that if you have a water softener in your home, your water softening system is adding salt to your septic system every time it regenerates, which is harmful to your health.

In addition, depending on your septic system, the wastewater that ends up in your drain field may still include residue from home chemicals such as laundry detergent, which can be harmful.
Furthermore, gardening tasks such as ploughing, deep digging, rototilling, and fence post placement must be included in.
Raised garden beds, on the other hand, can have a substantial impact on the usual evaporation rate of wastewater from the soil.

Herbaceous plants such as annuals, perennials (including bulbs), and decorative grasses will be the best choices for your septic drain field.

In a previous section, we discussed the advantages of shallow-rooted herbaceous plants over alternative deep-rooted and woody-rooted options. Although growing shallow-rooted plants on a drain field is permissible, there are certain general considerations to keep in mind:

Covering the drain field with more dirt unless the amount is insignificant or the material is being used to repair an area that has been eroded or dragged up by the removal of another plant should be avoided.

Tilling the soil– If at all possible, avoid doing this. Please keep in mind that the pipe for your septic system drain field might be as near as 12 inches from the soil surface, and in some cases much closer.

It is best to avoid tilling the soil if at all possible. Please keep in mind that the pipe of your septic system drain field may be as near as 12 inches from the soil surface, and in some cases much closer.

Use of groundcovers– If you are selecting a groundcover for your drain field, such as a native grass or creeper, avoid using species that are known to form a thick, dense canopy over the drain field. In order for your septic system to work efficiently, the effluent in the drain field must be allowed to evaporate, which cannot occur if the ground cover is too thick.

Native species– Select plants that are native to your area and have a high level of adaptability. It will be less necessary for you to fertilize or water the drain field area as a result.

Make sure that there is no foot traffic on the septic drain field in order to limit the likelihood of damage occurring. Choose low-maintenance plants that don’t require a lot of attention or mowing
And

A selected listing of plants for use on septic drain fields

The following are some more suggestions for plants that do well in drain fields in British Columbia. This list is not exhaustive, so make sure to conduct more research to confirm that the plants you pick will survive in the circumstances that are typical of your region before purchasing them. Fescue, lawn, and ornamental grasses are examples of grasses. Meadow mixtures with wildflowers Groundcovers that are tolerant of the sun Kinnickinick heathers (Calluna) are a kind of heather (Arctostaphylos) Soapwort is a kind of plant that is used to make soap (Saponaria) Groundcovers for Providing Shade Bunchberry is a kind of berry (Cornus) Ferns that are indigenous to the area Mosses that are indigenous to the area Sweet Woodruff is a flowering plant that is native to the United States (Galium) Ginder in the wild (Asarum) Wintergreen (Gaultheria) is a plant that grows in the winter.

Could you please tell me what native plants I can plant on the drain field?

A formal garden or an informal garden over your septic system might be challenging to design. You want a beautiful yard, but you don’t want it to come at the price of causing damage to your onsite waste water system. The majority of rural Michigan houses have an onsite waste water system (septic system), which consists of a septic tank and a water drainage field to dispose of the treated water once it has been treated. In a state with over 1.3 million septic systems, homeowners can choose to have their septic system installed in the front, side, or rear of their property, which will take up a significant amount of area in their backyard.

If you follow a few simple dos and don’ts, you can keep your onsite water treatment system in good condition while still enjoying the landscape you desire.
The use of just shallow-rooted flowers and grasses over the drain field will be emphasized by some sources.

Another option is to choose plants that are drought tolerant so that the mound does not need to be watered as often.
For the ordinary homeowner, this jumble of information can be perplexing and overwhelming.
I believe that the root system may reach depths of up to 15-20 feet and is composed of fibrous roots.

About septic systems

A formal garden or an informal garden over your septic system might be difficult to maintain. While you would like to have a beautiful yard, you don’t want it to come at the price of causing damage to your onsite waste water treatment system. An onsite waste water system (septic system) is installed by the majority of rural houses in Michigan. This system includes a septic tank and a water drainage field for the disposal of treated waste water. With over 1.3 million septic systems in the state, homeowners can choose to have their septic system installed in the front, side, or rear of their property, which will take up a large portion of their backyard.

It’s possible to maintain your onsite water treatment system while still having the landscaping you desire by following a few simple dos and don’ts.
The use of just shallow-rooted flowers and grasses over the drain field will be emphasized by one resource.
Another option is to choose plants that are drought tolerant so that the mound does not require any additional watering.
This jumble of information might be perplexing to the ordinary house buyer.

According to my estimation, the root system can reach depths of up to 15-20 feet and is composed of fibrous roots. One client remarked, “That appears to be in direct conflict with the idea for a shallow root system!”

A soil absorption or drain field is a series of ditches lined with perforated pipe that is laid on a gravel bed or a sand bed. Drain field surrounded by a three- to four-foot mound of sand elevated above ground level.

These fields are structured to drain the external water from rain and snow melt out from the field rather than into it when they are properly designed and constructed. In turn, the surface soils in the drain field become drier than those in other parts of the landscape as a result of this phenomenon. This suggests that the plants you choose for this location should be drought tolerant. Avoid having a lot of people strolling or driving through your drain field. This causes the soil to become compacted, reducing its capacity to effectively drain water.

Irrigation systems should never be installed over a drainage field.

If your drain field area is flooded, has standing water, or accumulates rainwater, it is strongly advised that you stop here and contact for a septic examination.

Choosing plants that do not interfere with septic system operations

The ability to select the most appropriate plants for a given site is essential for creating a successful landscape. When selecting native plants for over drain fields, look for ones that thrive in arid climates such as the prairie. Plant material is available in a variety of forms, including seed mixes, chosen plants, and plugs. Native plants will absorb the increased nutrients in the soil, keeping them from entering the groundwater as rapidly as they otherwise would. Aside from that, because they do not grow in water-saturated circumstances, the roots of dry prairie plants do not block sewage system pipes.

These plants are looking for extra moisture and will most likely infiltrate holes and pipes that have been left exposed.

Their thin roots, on the other hand, need constant surface watering and frequent lawnmower traffic to keep the lawn in good shape.

It does need some weeding and the removal of seasonal dead plants, though.

A few choices for a short grass dry prairie, may include:

Wildflowers In sunny spots, plant the following forbs: butterfly weed, sky blue aster (also known as smooth aster), white aster (also known as white aster), sweet everlasting (also known as Canada milk vetch), Lance leaf Coreopsis (also known as purple prairie clover), Pale Purple Coneflower (also known as Rough Blazing Star), Royal Catchfly (also known as Royal Catchfly), Lupine (also known as Dotted Mint), Beardtongue (also Consider the following plants for shaded locations: Astilbe, Hardy Begonia, Turtle Head, Ferns, Sweet Woodruff, and Lady’s Mantle
And Grasses and Sedges are a type of plant that grows in a grassy or sedgey environment. Rushes include Sideoats Grama, Little Bluestem, Prairie Dropseed, Plains Oval Sedge, June grass, and Prairie Brome, among others. Shrubs Over any component of a septic system, it is not suggested to plant any type of tree. In the event that you decide to plant trees and shrubs, make sure to pick an upland type and to plant it far enough away from the drain field or mound so the dripline of the mature tree will fall outside of it. Plants that bloom in spring include: Arum, Anemone/Windflowers, Crocus (including Hyacinths), Iris (including Lilies), Daffodils, and Tulips (Note: some of the bulbs listed have been naturalized, but not all of them are native.)

Finally a few reminders:

Water-loving plants, bushes, and trees should not be planted in close proximity to your septic system. Growing vegetables over your septic system is not recommended due to the potential of bacterial contamination and the health hazards associated with it. It is not necessary to add more soil to your drainfield. It is necessary to have a septic examination performed if the soil in your drain field region is constantly moist or has standing water, or if you have water backing up into your home. It’s possible that your field failed
It is essential that you maintain a layer of vegetation over your drain field in order to keep the dirt in place and keep the system running properly. When planting, try to avoid tilling the soil too much. It is possible that you will upset or damage your drain pipes.

More resources for planting over septic systems:

Michigan State University Extension: For a comprehensive list of Michigan native flora, see their website. For an overview and a plant list, see the Purdue Extension Bulletin HENV-15-W. Clemson Extension Bulletin: For a list of plants as well as some helpful hints. The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) is responsible for Septic systems in Michigan are covered in detail in this section. As soon as you see any indicators of issue with your septic system, contact your local County Health Department and have your septic system drained and thoroughly examined at the earliest opportunity.

Home*A*Syst (WQ 51) andManaging Your Septic System (WQ 39) are two instructional products that may be obtained for little or no cost from the MSU Extension Bookstore.

Septic Systems and Landscaping — Magneson Tractor Service Inc.

Your comprehensive guide to septic-safe flora. You’ve just finished installing your new septic system, and all that’s left is a muddy mess. Alternatively, you may get bored with the monotonous green scenery. You want to improve the appearance of your home while while keeping your yard septic-friendly. Here are some suggestions for landscaping and plants that are septic-safe. Why Should You Plant Near Your Septic System? It’s possible that you were intimidated by the prospect of planting near your septic system.

However, although invasive tree roots can cause havoc on leach fields, certain plants and landscaping can actually improve the effectiveness of your system.
For over your system and leach field, short-rooted plants like perennials and grasses are the ideal option because they are septic safe (including ornamental grass).
Furthermore, they enhance the exchange of oxygen in the soil, which is necessary for filtering the last of the germs from your wastewater before it is discharged.
Herbaceous (non-woody) ground coverings are also a fantastic option for creating a natural look.

If the location is bright, try planting one of these perennials for sunlit areas: If the location does not receive a lot of sunlight, you will most likely be pleased with these shade-garden plants. The soil in the vicinity of leach fields is occasionally wetter than usual, occasionally saltier than average, and occasionally both. Plant perennials that are tolerant of both damp soils and salt, such as bee balm, hollyhocks, and wild violets, to ensure that you cover all of your bases. As a result, if you find yourself in the same company as Snow White, you should consider deer-resistant perennials and deer-resistant ground coverings, as well as spring bulbs and attractive grasses that deer do not consume.

It is not safe to consume food crops that have been planted in the ground near a drain field since doing so may result in the consumption of hazardous microorganisms. Any trees or bushes that you plant should be placed as far away from your septic system as possible, regardless of how tall they are. For example, a tree that grows to be 30 feet tall will need to be placed at least 30 feet away from your septic system in order to be effective. It is preferable to plant shallow-rooted trees and bushes around septic tank drain fields if you must plant trees and plants.

Flowers should be limited to blooming annual or perennial bulbs with short roots, or wildflowers if you want to put flowers.
Try to stay with plants that are natural to your region (most of Paradise and Magalia are zones 89).
Check out this site for a list of septic-safe trees organized by zone, or speak with a representative at your local garden shop and advise them that you are landscaping around a sewage system.
They are capable of penetrating and clogging pipes, leach field lines, and even the tanks themselves.
There is no need to water your plants any more than is absolutely essential, nor is there any need to add dirt to the surrounding area.

When gardening in close proximity to your sewage system, always wear gloves. Landscaping in the Surrounding Area Despite the fact that the remainder of your yard is not in direct touch with your septic system, it is crucial to design it correctly.

Large trees should be removed from the surrounding area since their roots have the potential to spread far. All trees should be kept at least 100 feet away from your home and septic tank, according to the rule of thumb: Natural or man-made obstacles might be used to deter traffic from passing through your system. This is especially true when it comes to automobile parking. Make it crystal clear! Make sure you don’t park on your septic tank or drainage field. Extra water from your leach field may be diverted away from it through mulch, flowerbeds, rain gutters, and drains.

Just because you have a septic system does not imply that your yard must be devoid of vegetation. It is not even necessary to have only grass. Keep septic-safe plants in your yard to prevent the headache of a faulty system while still enjoying your yard and landscaping design.