With the tips above in mind, you can install a beautiful, low-maintenance garden where there used to be only an unsightly septic field and access hatch. These can end up in the plants growing on or near the septic system, thus contaminating any fruits, vegetables, or herbs. In addition, avoid the following, which can interfere with the normal evaporation process that removes excess moisture: When you select low-maintenance plants that are suitable for the environment, you can sit back and enjoy the greenery without having to worry about your septic system. 1919 NE 78th St Vancouver, WA 98665-9752 In truth, you do have a lot of open space atop the septic drain field. More than likely, the area around your septic system is devoid of any large plants, patios, or other fixtures. Look for short grasses, herbaceous perennials, self-sowing annuals, and bulbs, such as the following (* indicates shade tolerance): Consider turning the area around your septic tank into a wildflower meadow or pollinator garden. Try shallow-rooted herbaceous plants like flowers and ground cover. If you choose to allow animals to graze the drainfield area, you risk decreasing the effectiveness of you septic drainfield. Environmental Services. It's not safe to eat food crops grown in the ground around a drain fielddue to the risk of bacteria in the area. You can find out more and change our default settings with Cookies Settings. If you really want to work some landscaping around a septic system, choose plants that are known for their shallow root systems. It pays to do some research into the best plants for this area, your septic system drain fields, and the best options for your needs. As you can imagine, if planter boxes and heavy machinery can cause problems to your drain field and septic tank, the chances are pretty good that trees are generally a bad idea too, right? Forget that fencing and gate placement can affect septic pumper truck access. 
This process removes most of the harmful bacteria present before it can reach groundwater. Your email address will not be published. Additional water from downspouts, heavy hand watering, sprinklers or ponds overloads the soil and can lead to septic system failure. drought-resistant perennials if you want to plant any vegetation Keep in mind your specific septic system needs and regular maintenance that may be needed. For example, a The roots of grass and other herbaceous plants can help remove excess moisture and nutrients and help the septic system work efficiently. tank so that you don't inadvertently cause problems or damage. amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart"; Septic System Management Landscaping and Other Activities on Your Property Oregon State University Extension Well Water Program. 
Remember that tree roots can grow two to four times wider than the canopy, so those with aggressive root systems should be planted well away from the septic field. If you must grow trees and shrubs, shallow-rooted kinds are better to grow around septic tank drain fields. as far away from the septic tank as the tree is tall. Basically, you dont want any sort of maintenance that requires you to drive heavy mowers or other machinery over any pipes that lie close to the surface. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your device and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. Perhaps more importantly, though, shallow roots will remain above the system. That is not ideal. The Effect of Soil on Human Health: An Overview, If the spot does not get much sun, look at, The soil around septic systems is sometimes wetter than average, sometimes saltier than average, and sometimes both. What You Should Know About Tree Roots, Soil, and Your Foundation, and How To Prevent Concrete Damage Most of us appreciate the value of a few trees in the yard. Downloading, republication, retransmission or reproduction of content on this website is strictly prohibited. For a natural look, try an unmowed meadow using a meadow mix, some sold as Eco-Turf or Fleur de Lawn with native grasses and shallow rooting flowers. can Likewise, the landscaping around your septic system requires occasional inspection as well. Growing the right kind of vegetation here is not only permissiblebut actually advisable. Don't become so paranoid about the potential of root damage on a septic system that you abstain from planting anything in that area. Although a properly functioning septic system should not add disease causing organisms into the soil, it is difficult to judge how well the system works since that depends on many factors. Planting On Your Septic Drain Field.
But, in addition, some of the worst offenders are trees and shrubs with root systems that aggressively seek out sources of water. It happily absorbs extra moisture from around the soil, allowing your septic field to continue to process wastewater effectively and efficiently. The ingenious baffle is designed so that only the liquids can exit through the pipe. NEW Milwaukee M18 Fuel Belt Sander | 2832-20 HANDS-ON, YouTube Video VVVuaFZUNTRHOWtOcXV3VDFfZDJaR1F3LkpEMS1NdjBFWk1r, Tree Root Damage to Foundation and Concrete, Greenworks 60V Pole Saw and Pole Hedge Trimmer Review, Green Machine Carbon Fiber String Trimmer Review, DeWalt Zero-Turn Mowers for Commercial Users. 
For more plant or gardening ideas contact the WSU Clark County Extension Master Gardners at 564-397-7725. Those tunnels need to stay clear and open for best performance. Here are some shallow-rooted shrubs and trees that may be safely planted near the septic system: With cherry trees, keep in mind that fruit grown on or near a septic field should not be eaten (see number 6 for details). 
with us at Walters It is primarily the drain field pipes that you have to worry about when planting around septic tanks. Let tall Kentucky bluegrass or other lawn grow over the patch of land covering the septic tank. Grazing animals eat away protective vegetation over your From native grasses and ornamental grasses to fake rocks and herbaceous plants that are low maintenance, you can spruce up the area around your septic tank system without causing any harm to the way the system works. deeply. Native wildflowers attract bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, songbirds, and other wildlife, turning your unsightly septic tank into a natural oasis. Well designed, property installed and regularly maintained septic systems can last for many years. architectural features up above your septic tank create problems like David Beaulieu is a landscaping expert and plant photographer, with 20 years of experience. Remember to choose herbaceous perennials and self-sowing annuals with shallow roots to protect your septic system. If your septic system does County Public Health fail, you will need the reserve area to replace the failed system. See our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions. Similarly, a small statue or another lawn ornament can serve this decorative and functional purpose. Report evidence of noncompliance to your local Extension office. Consider planting perennials. If Another option includes planting low maintenance native ground covers such as bunchberry or Lady fern or shallow rooted perennials for a cut flower garden such as Salvia, Marigold, Zinnias, Impatiens, Geraniums or Petunias. WSU Small Acreage Coordinator Clark County But it's best to choose perennials over annuals. amzn_assoc_linkid = "cf97af818ccda089056c2c9191581fba"; When he doesn't have his hands on tools himself, Chris is often the man behind the camera lens making the rest of the team look good. If you live Content, including images, displayed on this website is protected by copyright laws. Resist that urge. Landscaping the ground over a septic system beautifies a less-than-inspiring view but choose plants with care. Can I plant a garden in the area that just looks pretty? Grass or herbaceous vegetation that can be disturbed should be planted over the tank, so you wont hesitate to damage them. Chances are that the area around your septic system is devoid of any large plants, patios, or other fixtures. Remember that the tank may need to be pumped occasionally, which means workers and their maintenance truck will need easy access to it. ornament to mark out its location. OPE Reviews publishes in-depth reviews and industry tool news centering around the outdoor power equipment industry. amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "protoorev-20";
Limit traffic over the system to reduce soil compaction. Most grass types are fine, but youll want to make sure that its easy to take care of with regular, light mowing. The drain field typically consists ofa number of perforated PVC pipes laid in underground trenches. One you keep such features well away from your septic tank. These features prevent proper drainage from tank to leach field. Root vegetables can penetrate your drain lines, while leafy vegetables may get soil splashed on the leaves from rain or irrigation. As long as you carefully select the landscaping for near your septic system, you do not have to overly stress about the potential of damage to septic systems caused by roots that you abstain from planting these areas altogether. Access ports for older tanks are usually buried six inches to two feet and are difficult to locate when it comes time to pump. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. The flat, open septic field might look like the perfect place for a vegetable garden, but it definitely is not! drain field and expose components of your septic system.
Would love your thoughts, please comment. Plants with extensive roots can grow down into the septic system and damage it. Check out theselandscaping ideas around septic tank areas to safely beautify and protect your septic system. Regular maintenance is a part of keeping your septic system working and is easier when components are well marked and easily located. Overwatering can compact soil over your leach field and case the septic system to get backed up. Landscaping Your Septic System Washington Sea Grant Program. Table 1: Shallow rooted native plants appropriate for landscaping septic systems. Its important to keep soil erosion in mind, as well as to understand the septic drain field. Newer tanks have above ground easy access ports that many landowners would like to disguise. If you like it when your septic system runs properly, keep major obstructions far away. the septic tank. Flowering annuals and perennials are a good idea, just avoid plants with woody stems. David has been interviewed by numerous newspapers and national U.S. magazines, such as Woman's World and American Way. Here are some common trees and shrubs to avoid growing over a septic system: Some gardeners also might wonder whether they can put a vegetable garden over a septic field. Install ponds, plastic sheeting or high maintenance plants that interfere with the drainage system. Compacted soils retain less oxygen, reduce soil organisms treatment of the effluent, and reduce the systems effectiveness. The roots of large, mature trees nearby can pose a risk. Certain types definitely shouldn't plant large shrubbery or trees anywhere near He enjoys his faith, family, friends, and the Oxford comma. Potted plants can be placed around and even on top of the access hatch to both mark and disguise it. other than grass over your septic tank. Landscape fabric, plastic, bark, or mulch should not be used over your septic system. The scum rises to the top. They may be covered with drain field fabric to keep dirt out. Plants can help to prevent erosion and suck up excess moisture from the drain field. Copyright 2008-2022 Pro Tool Reviews, LLC. You can also use animal repellents around probably already knew that putting certain substances like paint and Shallow rooted plants that attract wildlife such as butterflies or birds can also be utilized. Large animals also cause compaction. ~ Small Acreage Program Listserv ~ Their discharge takes the liquids into a much larger part of the septic system known as the "drain field" or "leach field.". Is It Safe to Use Drano With a Septic Tank? How to Grow and Care for Juniper Bonsai Trees, 8 Creative Landscaping Ideas to Hide Utility Boxes. The liquids form a middle layer in between the scum and the sludge. roots that grow very aggressively damage septic tanks and pipes even Planting on Your Septic Drain Field Virginia Cooperative Extension. amzn_assoc_search_bar_position = "bottom"; your landscaping, you must not cover it up completely. Virginia Tech Cooperative Extension. Create areas of increased foot traffic. You want to limit vegetation over your septic Water the new plants as needed, but be careful not to overwater them. You may still need to water them on occasion, but drain fields get rained on all the time and do just fine. The roots might go deeper than you want. In his free time, you might find Chris with his nose jammed in a book, or tearing out his remaining hair while watching Liverpool FC. You might think it would make a perfect location for planting vegetables. Plants help stabilize the soil over a septic field and prevent erosion, which can damage the system. They provide shade. Characteristics of Potentially Damaging Trees. more about keeping your septic tank in good shape by getting in touch Keep vehicles larger than a riding mower off the drainfield to avoid soil compaction and damage to the leach lines. All of the parts of this carefully tuned system must be functioning properly, or else the result is a costly problem. Plant shrubs or trees on the septic system. Thanks for helping us do what we love. Thats correct. In todays world of Internet news and online content, we began to inquire and found that more and more professionals were researching a majority of their major tool purchases online. If you must cross the drainfield with a larger vehicle, make sure the soil is dry and utilize track boards for weight distribution. At West Coast Sanitation, we know that you do not have time to deal with septic problems. We have professionals ready to answer your questions and get your system working properly again. Irrigation systems and water features should be located at least ten feet from the edge of your system. That means that youll want to have your tank inspected every three years, and pumped every three to five years. For one, anything that grows there will have indirectly used wastewater to grow. In areas that lack sewer systems, septic systems serve aswastewater treatment facilities. amzn_assoc_region = "US"; water demands. For ideas on some appropriate native plants, see Table 1. Trees with Smaller, lower garden beds get you back to our original point above. We've updated our Privacy Policy, which will go in to effect on September 1, 2022. This is a somewhat good rule to follow since roots can twine around pipes and cause damage. Always wear gloves when digging in a drain field to protect yourself. Terry Koper (564) 397-5701 Grasses and perennials both have a shallow root system that should do no harm to your tank or drain field. You do not want roots penetrating the perforations and clogging the system. Consider installing risers, available from local septic pumpers, over access ports and then disguising them as discussed above. The problem with super thirsty plants is that if they dont get enough to drink, theyll send deeper roots that could mess with your leach pipes. The optimal performance of your septic system should be the foremost consideration, but a cost/benefit analysis of using certain plants will have to be considered by each homeowner on an individual basis. You dont want to eat food that is grown in an area that could be contaminated. traffic can damage a septic tank in addition to vehicle traffic. Growing the right kind of vegetation here is not only permissiblebut actually advisable. pumping. Trees should be planted a minimum of 20 feet away, but trees that are known for searching out water should be planted a minimum of 50 feet away. Possibly. Examine your yard with the future in mind. A thin layer of topsoil is okay but refrain from adding more than a few inches. That piqued our interest. You can plant flowers on a septic bed, as they are sufficiently shallow-rooted. Shallow-rooted trees and shrubs include: Generally, avoid planting large, fast-growing trees. However, heavy Locate vegetable gardens, herb beds, fruit trees, and berry bushes well away from the septic system. amzn_assoc_default_category = "All"; Because the pipes are perforated, they allow wastewater to exit into first the crushed stone or gravel and then the soil below. Read our, Safe Plants to Grow Over Septic Tanks and Drain Fields, The Worst Plants to Grow Over Septic Systems, 8 Essential Tasks to Do Regularly for Septic Tank Maintenance, Everything You Need to Know About Sewage Ejector Pumps, The 8 Best Drain Cleaners to Safely Unclog Pipes, The Telltale Signs of a Clogged Sewer Drain in Your House, How to Locate Your Sewer Cleanout in Case of Emergency, Why Water Is Coming Up Through Your Basement Floorand How to Fix It. The solids sink to the bottom. You still want to avoid plants that need a lot of water to thrive. smallacreage@clark.wa.gov, Justin ODea noises or smells. Most pumpers like to have access within 50 feet from the truck. Learn tips for creating your most beautiful (and bountiful) garden ever. While grass is fine, youll probably want to steer cleer of planting gardens. landscaping should be designed and your yard laid out so that Because they have adapted to local growing conditions, native plants require little care, which means less traffic and disturbance around the septic system. your septic tank. Your septic system is designed to handle only the water coming from your home. The liquids eventually exit via a T-shaped baffle pipe. bamboo, cypress, pine, poplar, and elm trees. Whatever plants you choose, your landscape can be attractive and easy to maintain, while protecting you septic system. You do not want roots penetrating the perforations and gumming up the works. You can place fencing or landscaping features around your septic tank Landscaping around a septic tank and related components not only makes the area more attractive but also provides benefits to the septic system itself, enabling it to function properly and last a long time. Animals However, plants also absorb excess moisture and slow erosion, so doing some landscaping around your septic system might not be the worst idea. They will help you do a great job and stay on the safe side when it comes to landscaping around your septic tank. Even if you've avoided growing problematic plants directly over your septic system, you're not in the clear. Your septic system is a substantial investment and protecting it from damage can save time and money. Disrupt the soil as little as possible, keeping tilling and cultivation to a minimum. amzn_assoc_search_bar = "true"; Do not lay down any weed barrier fabric, plastic sheeting, gravel, or thick bark mulch. Im mostly just happy that my lawn equipment works as advertised. A few examples of such trees are Particularly, trees that grow deep roots can wreak havoc, but its best to keep any trees at least 30 ft away from your drain field and tank. Save Time and Money Properly Landscape Your Septic System. Get so worried about plants/grasses damaging your septic tank that you leave the area barren. For that reason, food gardens should be located elsewhere. A good rule of thumb is to get help from professionals in this area, but I hope that these landscaping ideas helped you decide the look and feel you want for your own design. grow above and around a septic tank without increasing the likelihood Failing that, it is possible to install root barriers to try to keep tree roots from invading your septic drain field (similar to the bamboo barriers used in controlling invasive bamboo). You
Extension programs are available to all without discrimination. These tend to be more drought-resistant. Adapted by Erin Harwood October, 2005; Revised 2019. It is not safe to eat food crops grown in the ground around a drain fieldbecause eating them might entail ingesting harmful bacteria. grazing above your septic tank. A tiered planter box or bench can camouflage these ports and can be easily moved to allow service. Shrubs with less aggressive roots may be planted 10 feet or further from the septic field, and less aggressive trees 20 feet or further. This makes it easier when it comes time to dig it up. But septic field landscaping must be done with care to avoid damaging the system. Sonya Harris is an award-winning gardening expert with two decades of experience teaching and sharing her extensive knowledge about small space gardening. Their shallow root systems are less likely to invade the underground system and cause it damage. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn income when you click on an Amazon link. The hoses on the truck are heavy and we dont recommend going over fences with them. WSU Extension does not manage these external sites, nor does Extension review, control, or take responsibility for the content of these sites. Options include: dogwoods, Japanese maples, Eastern redbuds, cherry trees, hydrangeas, azaleas, boxwoods, holly, and dwarf tree varieties. Instead, divert foot traffic around the area wherever possible. Do you have plans for constructing storage sheds, decks, patios or other structures? Landscape design should not interfere with the natural function of your system. Plants that do not require frequent dividing will limit digging and possible damage to the drainfield. However, certain guidelines should be followed to avoid costly and unpleasant experiences. These external sites do not implicitly or explicitly represent official positions and policies of WSU Extension. After Stanley Black and Decker Acquired MTD, the company seems laser-focused on expanding into gas landscaping products. We find there are both good ways and bad ways to go about landscaping around a septic system. amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit0"; Just like with your houses foundation, roots can (and eventually will) cause a lot of damage to your pipes and septic tank. Environmental Health at 360-397-8428. She is a Master Gardener and founder of the award-winning Bullock Garden Project in New Jersey. tank to small plants with roots that do not penetrate the ground too This fact sheet outlines how to landscape around your septic system to minimize damage. Make good choices and your lawn ornaments and the plants or root vegetables you use in your garden. Perennialsand grasses (including ornamental grasses) work best around your septic tank and drain field. Conversely, if the access hatch is not visible, marking it will make any required septic maintenance easier and minimize the destruction of your beautiful landscaping. Plants will prevent erosion and suck up some of the excess moisture from the drain field. Placing swimming pools, patios, and large trees nearby can eventually ruin your day. However, if you go through gallons of pesticide or weed killer on a regular basis, you likely want something less mechanical. A good way to narrow down plant options is to consider these tips: Avoid planting large, fast-growing trees over your septic system. You In addition, some of the worst offenders when it comes to septic damage are trees and shrubs with root systems that aggressively seek out sources of water. They aren't fussy about the water source they tap into, meaning the pipes in your septic tank drain field are very much fair game. Grass is great for the area around your septic system. if they are located far away. using a landscaping feature such as a birdbath or any stationary lawn
Remember that plants with deep roots can get into the septic tank area where there can be harmful bacteria. type of traffic above your septic tank is problematic. These nutrient-absorbing plants may have issues with bacteria if placed too close.
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