The drain field, also referred to as a leach field or leach drain, is wastewater treatment system that lies beneath the surface. Its sole function is to remove the contaminants from the wastewater after anaerobic digestion takes place in the septic tank. The drain field is made up of an arrangement of perforated pipes and gravel that is covered by soil to prevent animals from accessing the distributed wastewater.

You may be considering planting over your drain field, but are concerned about the effect it may have on your septic system. It is important that you know that planting over your drain field is not only safe, but suggested. Plants will absorb any excess moisture produced during the wastewater treatment process and also prevent erosion. Keep this in mind when planting over your drain field.

Drain Field Planting Do’s

It is suggested that you grow plants with a shallow root system as they are less likely to interfere with your septic system. They tend to grow slowly and will not develop roots that will invade or disrupt your septic system. Examples of safe plants to grow over your drain field are perennials and annuals. They have comparatively short life spans and will effectively soak up the excess water in the ground. You should also take this into consideration when selecting what plants to grow in your drain field:

● How much sunlight does the area get?
● How wet does the area get?
● How salined is the water?

With these questions answered, you will be able to specifically select which plants are best fit for your drainfield.

Drain Field Planting Don’ts

You should avoid planting any large trees that grow quickly with excessively deep root systems over your drain field. There many shrubs and trees with roots that will aggressively source water, no matter where that water may be coming from. That means that your drain pipes are not off limits. They will make their way through the perforated holes, disrupt, and even burst pipes. A few of the most notorious offenders include:

● Aspen trees
● Pussy willow shrubs
● Beech trees
● Tulip trees
● Lombardy willow shrubs

Avoiding these plants in particular is a surefire way to ensure an uninterrupted septic system. For issues such as drain line build-up and insufficient bacteria levels in the septic tank, a septic tank treatment is the most appropriate solution.

Maxx’s Products offers effective products that combat septic system issues that can result thousands of dollars in repairs if ignored. Our eco-friendly premium products are biodegradable and can clear your septic tank of unnecessary build-up by simply being flushed down the toilet furthest from your septic tank. Contact us to speak with a septic expert today!