It's almost summer! You know what that means: long days spent lounging outside, kids running through the yard, and (hopefully) a bountiful harvest, if you took the time to plant one!
There's nothing quite like getting your hands in the dirt. If you're laying down fresh mulch, planting colorful blooms, tackling a landscaping project, or growing tomatoes and peppers, late spring gardening is in full swing!
Before you dig in, don't forget to consider your septic system.
Your septic tank and drain field play a major role in keeping your plumbing running smoothly, and the choices you make in your yard can have a big impact on how well they function.
Planting the wrong things, or planting them in the wrong spot, can lead to clogs, cracked pipes, and expensive repairs.
Here are a few do's and don'ts to keep your septic system safe and your yard looking fantastic.
Right out of the gate, do not plant vegetables over your drain field.
Tilling the soil could damage components of your septic system, and vegetable roots can interfere with how your system drains and processes wastewater.
More importantly, there's a risk that untreated or partially treated wastewater could seep into your crops. That's not just gross, but unsafe! Produce could carry harmful bacteria that could make you or your loved ones sick.
Before digging holes or breaking ground for a new garden bed, make sure you know exactly where your septic tank and drain field are located.
Even shallow digging can hit lines if installed close to the surface. If you're unsure where your system is, call a septic professional to help map it out safely.
No deep-rooted plants should be placed within at least 10 yards of your system.
As tempting as it may be to plant a shade tree or a privacy hedge near the lush grass around your drain field, resist the urge, those roots will find your pipes, and the results aren't pretty.
Trees and large shrubs naturally seek moisture, and your septic system is full of it. Roots can crack pipes, invade tanks, and cause serious system failures.
Gardens that rely on decorative flowers and grasses are a great way to take advantage of the soil around your septic!
Local wildflowers, clover, ornamental grasses, and creeping plants make beautiful landscaping options and won't interfere with your system.
They also help prevent erosion and require minimal maintenance.
Raised garden beds or hardscaping might seem like a good idea for curb appeal, but placing them over your septic tank is not a good idea.
Heavy structures compact the soil and mess with how it absorbs wastewater. Like the root systems mentioned earlier, it's not good for your pipes. On top of that, it makes it difficult to drain when it's needed. Remember, an open area is a happy area when it comes to drainfields!
If you decide to plant decorative plants, remember that your septic system already holds plenty of water from inside the house!
Adding irrigation or overwatering your plants near your drainfield can overwhelm the system and reduce its effectiveness. There's also a chance that your paradise could turn into a watery, swampy mess.
Stick to drought-tolerant plants if possible, and definitely avoid installing sprinklers near your septic tank!
With some forethought and a green thumb, your garden and your septic system can absolutely live in harmony. While there are some exceptions to what you should plant for maximum efficiency, remember to stick to our dos and avoid our don'ts so your yard can be both beautiful and functional.
Not sure what's safe to plant or where your system is located? Give BBB Septic a call. Our team includes environmental scientists, tradesmen, and seasoned pros who are always happy to help!
