What To Plant On Top Of Septic Tank To Keep Access? (Best solution)

Perennials and grasses (including ornamental grasses) work best around your septic tank and drain field. Their shallow root systems are less likely to invade the underground system and cause it damage. For the same reason, small, non-woody ground covers are a good choice.Perennials and grasses (including ornamental grasses) work best around your septic tank and drain fielddrain fieldThe drain field typically consists of an arrangement of trenches containing perforated pipes and porous material (often gravel) covered by a layer of soil to prevent animals (and surface runoff) from reaching the wastewater distributed within those trenches.https://en.wikipedia.org › wiki › Septic_drain_field

Septic drain field – Wikipedia

. Their shallow root systems are less likely to invade the underground system and cause it damage. For the same reason, small, non-woody ground covers are a good choice.

• Creeping Charlie, stonecrop, and jewelweed plants will multiply and cover a septic space nicely. Perennials and grasses (including ornamental grasses) work best around your septic tank and drain field. Their shallow root systems are less likely to invade the underground system and cause it damage.

What can you plant on top of a septic 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 put on top of 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 you plant a garden on top of a septic field?

The most important reason you should not install a vegetable garden on top of, or right next to, a septic system disposal field is because the plants can become contaminated by wastewater that has not yet been renovated by the field. Plants on disposal fields can absorb wastewater pathogens.

Can you put anything over a septic field?

To maintain the integrity and longevity of your drainfield, you should never put anything heavy on top of any part of it. You shouldn’t even drive over the drainfield, as the vehicle can crush the drainfield lines. Heavy items cause soil compaction.

Can you plant a vegetable garden over a septic tank?

Septic tank vegetable gardens are not recommended. Although a properly functioning septic system should not cause any problems, it is very hard to tell when the system is working 100 percent efficiently. Vegetable plant roots grow down in search of nutrients and water, and they can easily meet wastewater.

Can you put a deck over a septic tank?

You should never build a deck over a septic field; doing so will prevent the natural draining and dissipation of the effluent. This can ruin the septic system, not to mention releasing foul smells into the air all around your deck. The dissipating effluent can also rot the deck from underneath.

Can you plant on top of septic tank?

Plants Safe to Grow Over Septic Tanks and Drain Fields Perennials and grasses (including ornamental grasses) work best around your septic tank and drain field. Their shallow root systems are less likely to invade the underground system and cause it damage.

How do I hide my above ground septic tank?

The Do’s For Hiding Your Septic Tank

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

Can you plant grass over a septic tank?

Grass Benefits Grass planted over a septic drain field prevents soil erosion and improves the exchange of oxygen and the removal of soil moisture. Turfgrass is ideal for planting over a septic drain field because its roots aren’t likely to clog or damage the drain lines.

Can you put a greenhouse on top of a septic field?

A greenhouse can be erected on a septic field to grow certain types of plants. The greenhouse should not have permanent foundations, which could easily damage the septic system. Do not plant directly into the ground over a septic field, as the plants could absorb contaminants released by the system.

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.

Why is grass green over septic tank?

Greener grass over the septic tank may be the result of someone seeding that area if the tank cover was excavated for service. A backing up pipe to leachfield (or worse, a failing leachfield) could cause effluent to drain too slowly out of the septic tank or back up even into the building.

Can I put gravel over my leach field?

Adding gravel, bark or other fill over the drainfield can disrupt the soil’s process and may harm your system. Only the addition a very thin layer of topsoil is acceptable. Never plant vegetable gardens on or near a drainfield. This type of wastewater is best kept away from any plants you plan on ingesting.

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

Riverside, California 92504-17333 Van Buren Boulevard Call us right now at (951) 780-5922. A big number of large plants, patios, and other structures are likely to be absent from the region surrounding your septic system. Indeed, conventional thinking is that you should avoid both large landscaping and septic systems in the vicinity of one other. This is a reasonable guideline to follow since roots can entangle themselves around pipes and cause them to burst. Plants, on the other hand, can absorb excess rainfall and decrease erosion, so landscaping around your septic system might not be such a bad idea after all.

You don’t want roots to penetrate the perforations and clog the system, so keep them out.

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 shrubbery (such as cherry trees, dogwood trees, holly shrubs, azalea shrubs, and boxwood shrubs) in the area around your septic system, but make sure they are at least 10-15 feet away from your 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.

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

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; Elm trees The majority of maple trees, with the exception of Japanese maples; American sweetgum trees; Ash trees; Tulip trees; and many more species

6 Things to Know About Landscaping Around Your Septic Tank

You’re undoubtedly already aware that dumping some items into your sewage system, such as paint or grease, can cause harm to your septic tank. However, you may not be aware that certain gardening methods can actually cause harm to your septic system. In order to avoid unwittingly causing difficulties or damage to your septic tank, here are six things you should know regarding landscaping around your septic tank. 1. The location of the access point. It is OK to use landscaping to conceal the entry port to your septic tank; however, you must not totally conceal it.

• One option to conceal your access port without totally concealing it is to use a landscaping element such as a birdbath or any other fixed lawn decoration to mark out its position on the property.
• Characteristics of Vegetation that is Safe It is possible for some species of vegetation to grow above and around a septic tank without the risk of septic tank damage rising.
• You should also limit the vegetation that grows above your tank to plants that do not require a lot of water.
• In order to grow anything other than grass over your sewage tank, use perennials that are drought-resistant to the elements.
• Characteristics of Trees that Have the Potential to Be Destructive Large bushes or trees should not be planted anywhere near your septic tank under any circumstances.
• In the case of a 20-foot-tall tree, it is recommended that it be placed at least 20 feet away from the septic tank.
• Trees with actively growing roots can cause damage to septic tanks and pipelines, even if they are located a long distance away.

4.

Grazing animals consume the protective vegetation that covers your drain field, exposing the components of your septic system to the elements.

There are a lot of methods you may use to keep livestock from grazing on your septic tank.

You may also apply animal repellents around your drain field, which deter animals by emitting unpleasant sounds or odors that they find uncomfortable.

Preventing vehicular and pedestrian traffic.

Your landscaping should be planned and your yard should be put out in such a way that cars do not drive over the area where your septic tank is positioned.

Foot traffic, in addition to car traffic, can cause damage to a septic tank.

As an alternative, if possible, direct foot traffic away from the area.

The Positioning of Architectural Elements You could choose to include architectural elements into your landscaping, such as retaining walls, stone paths, or fire pits.

If you plan to incorporate architectural elements into your landscaping, be certain that these elements are located far away from your septic tank. Get in contact with Walters Environmental Services if you want to learn more about maintaining your septic tank in excellent working order.

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.

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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

Prairie grasses and meadows can be no-mow and can prevent driving across septic fields, both of which are beneficial characteristics, leading some people to believe they are desirable. Nielsen, on the other hand, believes that they are frequently poor alternatives for the septic field. The prairie grasses and perennials contain some of the longest, tangliest, and strongest roots on the planet, according to Dr. Smith. Prairie grasses have vigorous roots that are good at searching out water sources such as perforated drainpipes as a result of their drought-resistant characteristics.

1. While cedars are beautiful, they may be a nuisance when they grow next to a septic field.
2. When homeowners insist on planting trees with significant lateral root development, encourage them to take a deep breath and wait.
3. The owners of landscape-intensive yards must be cautioned not to plant vegetables over the septic field as this might cause serious problems.
4. They are cautioned, however, that disturbing the soil with these annual crops is detrimental to the septic system, and that the wastewater may include diseases that can be transmitted to the edibles.

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.

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.

My task would be a lot simpler if I had done a bit more planning ahead of time. 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.

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

In the event that you want to plant over your septic drain field, When it comes to landscaping around a septic tank, there are a few plants you may use safely, and then there are the ones you should avoid. Is it possible to grow plants over your septic drain field? If so, which plants are the most beneficial and which are the most detrimental? We will discuss landscaping and gardening ideas for septic tank owners in this post, which is written in English and Spanish.

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.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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?

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 greatest solution in this situation. Maintain visibility of your drain field, or make people aware of it through other measures, such as a plant barrier or fence, to discourage people from entering. Large social events should be avoided; mowing the grass is perfectly OK; however, visitors should be limited. If you are unclear of any potential scenarios that might negatively impact your system, always consult with your Septic System Installer.

The fact that they are 50 feet or more away from your septic system and drain field is OK.

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

• 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.

• Covering the drain field with more dirt unless the amount is insignificant or the material is being used to restore an area that has been eroded or pushed up due to the removal of another plant should be avoided at all costs

• Gloves– When dealing with the soil from your drain field, it is essential that you wear gloves. A pathogen could be present in the water seeping from your septic system into the drain field, and if it came into contact with your skin, eyes, or mouth it could cause you to become very sick.

• 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.

Plants in Septic Drain Fields

Property owners are advised not to put trees too close to their sewage drain lines or mounds, according to septic system specialists. Trees put out small feeder roots that infiltrate and block septic drain systems as they grow. You are, however, recommended to plant plants over the area where your septic drain is located. What you need to know about plants and your septic system is outlined here.

Septic-Drain-Field Vegetation Offers Benefits

The use of bare soil or gravel as a ground surface is not recommended for dealing with storm runoff, freezing precipitation, or severe winds. Storms and other natural forces erode the soil on the surface. Zones where water pools or excessive dirt is washed away after every storm may develop in eroded areas that are difficult to maintain. By using their roots and weight, plants help to hold the soil in place. Plant roots absorb extra water during storms and prevent the soil from being washed away by the water.

The cultivation of tall grass, weeds, and other shallow-rooted plants in the vicinity of your septic drain field is permissible, and in some cases, recommended.

Shallow-Rooted Plants Are BestForSeptic Fields

Shallow-rooted annuals and perennials are excellent alternatives for the soil absorption field because of their shallow roots. Annual grasses and flowers die back after the first frost, which means that they will not be able to form significant roots that will clog septic lines. So that you don’t have to worry about replanting the area every spring, choose shallow-rooted annual plants that reseed readily. Perennial plants are plants that grow and blossom year after year (if the plants are flowering plants).

In colder climes, most perennial plants die back in the autumn or winter and reappear in the spring from the same roots or tubers that they had in the previous year. Among the shallow-rooted plants that can be used to grow above the soil absorption field are the following:

• Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue, bee balm, hollyhock, wild violet, iris, tulip, and daffodil are some of the plants that grow in Kentucky.

If you want to learn more about native plants that are shallow-rooted and visually appealing, go to your local extension agent or plant nursery specialist.

Septic-Area Crops Are Unsafe for Humans

Never plant food crops in the region where your septic system’s soil absorption area is located. Septic fields treat human waste, which means that germs and disease-causing organisms are present in the soil around your septic leach field as a result of the treatment process. Produce harvested from the area surrounding your septic drain field is potentially dangerous since the vegetables may be infected with harmful germs. Do not eat blackberry or other berry plants that have grown wild over your septic field, nor should you allow anyone to consume the fruit of the bushes.

1. Other plants that should not be eaten or touched when near your septic drain area include as follows: Generally speaking, avoid eating or handling any plant-based food stuff that has been collected near the septic drain region.
2. The same level of caution should be exercised while handling ornamental flowers, blooms, and vegetation that has been harvested from the septic drain region.
3. However, the flowers may contain bacteria that you don’t want in your home or on your patio, so keep them away.
4. The presence of grasses and low ground coverings is significantly less enticing to youngsters than the presence of colorful flowers.

Some Tree Species Are Worse Than Others

In order to grow tall and robust, certain tree and shrub species require a lot of water. Hydrophilic plants are the trees or shrubs that grow in water. Hydrophilic plants are the kind of plants that are most likely to infiltrate your septic system in quest of water. Willows, poplars, and maples are examples of trees that have root systems that are detrimental to septic systems. The roots of poplar trees may extend up to 100 feet from the base of the trees. Other tree and shrub species that might potentially infiltrate your septic system are:

• Pussy willows, Japanese willows, aspen trees, Lombardy poplar, birch trees, beech trees, elm trees, sweetgum, and ash are some of the trees that grow in this area.

Any of these trees growing in the proximity of your septic system will most likely cause root difficulties in the future. Now is the time to contact a professional tree service to remove any problematic trees for you. If you have invasive plant roots in your septic lines, your plumbing firm can power rod or hydro-jet them to clear them. They can also repair any damage to your septic lines that has been caused by invasive plant roots. In order to reduce the likelihood of future line invasions of your septic system while building a new house, avoid planting the shrubs and trees listed above in your landscaping plans.

Shrubs should be kept at least 10 feet away from the house.

Have your septic lines examined and fixed as soon as possible. Call Jim Dhamer Plumbing and Sewer, Inc. at (630) 964-2222 now to schedule an appointment.

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

When not installed properly, several landscape elements and plants have the potential to cause catastrophic damage to septic tanks and drain fields. For this reason, appropriate installation is essential. The spring and early summer —when most people are thinking about landscaping around their septic system—is an especially critical time of year to keep in mind some of the most essential do’s and don’t’s when it comes to landscaping around your septic system. Continue reading to find out which plants or grasses can really assist you in maintaining the health of your septic system, and which landscaping decisions could result in costly repairs.

Planting Do’s and Don’ts

• To grow over the section of ground that contains the septic tank, you can use tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, or any other lawn grass (including decorative grass). Consider the benefits of growing perennials. Plants such as grasses and perennials have shallow root systems that should not cause any damage to your tank or drain field. Plants such as wild violets, hollyhocks, and bee balm are just a few examples of perennials that may thrive in the vicinity of a septic system, which is frequently wetter and saltier than the rest of the lawn. 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. Think about allowing weeds to grow over that region if the only other alternative is to leave it unattended for a while.

• Get so concerned about plants and grasses hurting your septic tank that you completely demolish the surrounding region. Some grasses and plants (such as those indicated above) perform an excellent job of absorbing excess precipitation around 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.

Landscaping Do’s and Don’ts

• Make use of tiny, non-woody groundcovers to disguise weeds. For areas near your septic system, shallow-rooted trees and vegetation may be appropriate, but keep them at least 10-15 feet away from your tank. If you’re searching for nice shallow-rooted options, cherry trees, dogwood trees, holly shrubs, eastern redbud trees, azalea shrubs, and boxwood shrubs are all excellent choices.

• 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.

These are some helpful hints to assist you avoid the most common mistakes that homeowners make during the planting season, which are listed above. If you stay away from deep-rooted plants and avoid compacting the soil over your tank or leach field, you should be able to maintain a beautiful lawn that does not cause septic problems. Additionally, consider placing a potted plant or lawn ornament over the lid of your tank to make it simpler for sewage pumping specialists to access your tank. When it comes time to pump it out, we’ll have an easier time finding it this way.

Septic System Gardening Info: Planting Gardens On Septic Drain Fields

Susan Patterson, Master Gardener, contributed to this article. A common source of concern for many homeowners is the planting of gardens on septic drain fields. This is especially true when it comes to planting a vegetable garden over a septic tank area. Continue reading to find out more about septic system gardening and whether or not it is advised to grow over septic tanks.

Can a Garden be Planted Over a Septic Tank?

Gardens over septic tanks are not only permitted, but they may be helpful in some circumstances. Septic drain fields benefit from the addition of attractive plants because they promote oxygen exchange and aid in the removal of moisture from the drain field region. Plants also aid in the control of erosion. Often, it is advised that leach fields be covered with meadow grass or turf grass, such as perennial rye, to improve the overall appearance. Furthermore, ornamental grasses with shallow roots can have a very pleasing appearance.

In either case, planting on a sewage bed is permissible as long as the plants you choose are neither invasive or deeply established.

Best Plants for Septic Field Garden

A septic field garden should be planted with herbaceous, shallow-rooted plants such as the grasses indicated above, as well as other perennials and annuals that will not damage or clog the sewage lines. Planting trees and shrubs over a septic field is more challenging than planting shallow-rooted plants over a septic field.

It is possible that tree or shrub roots may cause damage to pipelines at some point in time. Small boxwoods and hollybushes are preferable than woody shrubs or huge trees in this situation.

Vegetable Garden Over Septic Tank Areas

It is not suggested to grow vegetables in a septic tank. Although a fully functioning septic system should not create any difficulties, it can be difficult to determine whether or not the system is operating at peak performance. As vegetable plant roots grow downward in search of nutrients and water, they may come into contact with sewage or other liquid waste. People who consume the plants may become infected with pathogens such as viruses. Whenever feasible, it’s a good idea to reserve the space above and near the septic field for decorative plants and to locate your vegetable garden someplace else on the property.

Septic System Gardening Info

It is generally a good idea to obtain as much information as possible about your specific septic system before you begin planting. Consult with the house builder or the person who built the septic system to see which option would be the most appropriate for your unique scenario. Learn more about General Vegetable Garden Care in this article. This content was last modified on

Landscaping for Septic Systems

Septic systems that are properly built, put on the land, and serviced on a regular basis can survive for many years. When it comes to your septic system, prevention is key to maximizing its lifespan and minimizing its costs of operation. The two most common reasons of a malfunctioning septic system are improper (or a lack of) maintenance and physical damage to the system. Protecting Your Investment: Inspecting Your Septic System contains detailed information on routine maintenance and inspection of septic systems (PDF).

Plan Ahead to Protect Your Septic System

The design of your landscape should not interfere with the natural function of your irrigation system. Examine your yard with an eye towards the future. Plan to build a storage shed or other structure? Do you want to build a deck, patio, or anything else? Construction on or near your septic system might result in damage to the tank, pipes, and soil beneath the system. Sprinkler lines, decks, patios, storage sheds, sand boxes, swing sets, and other structures, whether paved or dirt, should be kept away from the septic tank, drainfield, and reserve area.

1. It is also essential to have access to your septic tank and other components of your septic system in order to do maintenance and prepare the drainfield before beginning.
2. Make use of your common sense and design your home around your septic system.
3. Before commencing any landscaping work, make sure you check with Clark first.
4. Call the Department of Environmental Health at 360-397-8428.

Marking Components for Access

Routine maintenance is an important aspect of keeping your septic system in good operating order, and it’s made easier when the components are clearly labelled and easy to find. Many landowners are concerned about the visibility of above-ground access ports on newer tanks, which are difficult to conceal. A tierred planter box or bench can be used to conceal these ports, and it can be simply relocated to enable for servicing to be performed. When it comes to older tanks, access ports are typically buried six inches to two feet down, making them difficult to discover when it comes time to pump.

Make use of risers, which may be obtained from local septic pumpers, to cover access ports, after which they can be disguised as previously stated.

Managing Water and Soil Properly

Downspouts and other surface water runoff should be directed away from your system. Water from your home’s septic system is the only type of water that it is intended to handle. Additionally, excessive rainfall, manual watering in large quantities, sprinklers, and ponds stress the soil, resulting in septic system failure. Irrigation systems and water features should be installed at least ten feet away from the edge of your irrigation system’s perimeter.

Vehicles and Equipment.

Prevent the amount of traffic that passes through the system in order to reduce soil compaction. Compacted soils retain less oxygen, lower the efficacy of soil organisms in treating wastewater, and diminish the overall effectiveness of the system. It is important to keep vehicles bigger than a riding mower away from the drainfield to minimize soil compaction and damage to the leach line. If you have to cross the drainfield with a heavy vehicle, make sure the soil is dry and use track boards to distribute the weight evenly across the ground.

Animals

Compaction is also caused by large animals. Choosing to allow animals to graze on the drainfield area increases the likelihood of your septic drainfield being less effective. When animals are permitted to graze the drainfield during the rainy season, they should be removed before the grazing causes the soil to become exposed. Gardens. Landscape fabric, plastic, bark, or mulch should not be put over a septic system since they might cause damage. These materials, such as bark and mulch, limit air exchange while also retaining excess moisture.

A vegetable garden requires irrigation and involves constant cultivation and digging, both of which can cause damage to pipes and other components, especially if sections of your irrigation system are only six inches below the surface of the earth.

As a result, food gardens should be established in a different location.

Root vegetables can get into your drain lines.

Selecting Plants

Shallow-rooted plants that require little upkeep and require little water are the best choice for planting over a drainfield or near your septic system. Planting grasses or herbaceous vegetation that may be disturbed should be done over the tank so that you won’t be afraid to harm them if you accidentally damage them. The roots of grass and other herbaceous plants can aid in the removal of surplus moisture and nutrients from the soil, as well as the proper operation of the septic system. Plants that do not require division on a regular basis will reduce the amount of digging and potential harm to the drainfield.

It is possible to grow ornamental grasses in addition to keeping a typical lawn.

Other herbaceous plants can be utilized, but avoid those that demand a lot of irrigation on a regular basis.

Small-rooted plants that attract animals such as butterflies or birds can also be used in conjunction with larger plants.

To find more more about plants or gardening ideas, call the WSU Clark County Extension Master Gardners at 564-397-7725 or visit their website. Whatever plants you pick, your landscaping may be both visually appealing and low-maintenance, while also protecting your septic system from damage.

Landscaping Septic Systems

Table 1: Native plants with shallow roots that are ideal for use in landscaping sewage systems. Sources

• Septic System Management – Landscaping and Other Activities on Your Property – Well Water Program of the Oregon State University Extension G. Andrews’ Gardening with Native Plants was published in 2000. Clark County Public Works, Water Resources, and other departments Planting on Your Septic Drain Field – Virginia Cooperative Extension (2004
• Virginia Cooperative Extension). S. Day and E. Silva, eds. Landscaping Your Septic System – Washington Sea Grant Program (2013
• In English). T. King and J. Holdcroft, eds. Landscaping Your Drainfield – Washington State University Island County Extension, 2001. Maleike, R. (n.d.)
• Landscaping suggestions for those who have a septic system. Water Wastewater Program for the City of Seattle and the County of King. Landscaping Your Drainfield was published in 2005. Clallum County Health and Human Services
• Landscaping Your Drainfield– Thurston County Public Health and Social Services Department
• Clallum County Health and Human Services

Erin Harwood worked on the adaptation. Extension programs are offered to anyone, without regard to their financial status. Originally published in October 2005; updated in 2019. Notify your local Extension office if you find any evidence of noncompliance. Links to external websites are provided on our pages for the convenience of our visitors. It should be noted that WSU Extension is not responsible for the content of these external websites, nor does it monitor or regulate the information included on them.