Are you planning to do a little backyard landscaping? Did you know certain trees and shrubs can cause damage to your septic tanks and drain fields? Certain species of plants have invasive root systems that searches for waters sources interfering with your septic system’s pipes. Learning which plants are safe and which are not is an important step in choosing the right plants and trees for your yard.

The Safest Plants and Trees to plant 

Don’t be deterred from creating your dream backyard because you are scared of damaging your septic system.  Growing the right kind of trees and plants in your yard will actually help maintain your septic system. Plants and trees prevent erosion and remove excess moisture from the drain field. Planting a Fescue Turf Grass such as Kentucky bluegrass; especially over and around the area of your Septic Tank is highly advised. Perennials are great flowers to plant and they come back every year. Some of the best species to consider are:

  • Amsonia
  • Baptisia
  • Astrantia
  • Sedum
  • Daylily
  • Foxglove
  • Salvia
  • Coneflower
  • Lavender
  • Hellebore
  • Asters
  • Peony

Both plants offer a shallow root system less likely to disturb your underground septic system and cause damage. You can also choose from a variety of small, non-woody low-lying plants. These plants have a creeping habit which make them very attractive in landscaping and offer an array of varieties to choose from. It’s always best to select plants based on the available growing conditions.

Taking into consideration things like:

  • What space is available to grow
  • The temperature
  • The amount of sunlight or lack of
  • The amount of water
  • The air
  • The nutrients or soil
  • Time of year

You’ll want to stick to shallow-rooted trees and shrubs to grow around your septic tank.

Some of the best examples are:

  • Dogwood trees.
  • Japanese maple trees.
  • Eastern redbud trees.
  • Cherry trees.
  • Azalea shrubs.
  • Boxwood shrubs.
  • Holly shrubs.
  • Dwarf tree varieties.

It’s always a good idea to speak to the representative at your local garden center or do a little research online to make the right selection based on those conditions.

The Worst Plants to Grow 

You will want to avoid planting anything fast growing with aggressive root systems.  These offenders seek out sources of water and  are not fussy about the source. This means they might tap into the pipes in your septic tank thus causing major damage. There are many trees and shrubs you’ll want to avoid when making your selections.

The top worst offenders to avoid include:

  • Pussywillow
  • Ash Tree
  • Birch
  • Box Elde
  • Elm
  • Weeping Willow
  • Japanese Maple
  • Lombardy Poplar

      You may even have a mature tree right outside your home that could be a potential problem. Typically the rule of thumb is that the tree should be as many feet away from where your septic tank lies to as many feet tall as your tree stands. So it the tree is 10 feet tall it should be 10 feet away from the septic tank.

      While it can be a challenge to ensure your septic system is cared for properly on the outside. You may rest assured by letting Maxx’s Products help you take care of the inside. Maxx’s Products will help guard and protect your system against the effects of anti-bacterial products, caustic cleaning agents and detergents by providing the ideal blend of bacteria and enzymes that your system requires to operate properly.

      Check out these links and other Maxx’s Products Blog Posts for tips and tricks on your home maintenance care!

      How To Ensure Your Septic System Is Summer Ready
      The benefits to owning and maintaining your septic system
      Benefits Of Natural Drain Cleaner
      History of the Septic System