Shallow-rooted trees and shrubs include: Generally, avoid planting large, fast-growing trees. Plants will prevent erosion and suck up some of the excess moisture from the drain field. A good way to start is to consider growing conditions: It is not safe to eat food crops grown in the ground around a drain field because eating them might entail ingesting harmful bacteria. It has … How to Grow and Care for a Weeping Willow Tree, Pumping a Septic Tank: What You Should Know, How to Care for a Septic Tank and Septic System, The Best Septic Tank Cleaning Services of 2020, The 7 Best Detergents for Septic Systems in 2020, Weeping Cherry Trees and Other Cascading Trees, 12 Common Species of Willow Trees and Shrubs. Introducing "One Thing": A New Video Series, consider these ten best perennials for sunlit areas, But if the spot does not get much sun, you will probably be happier with, The soil around septic tank drain fields is sometimes wetter than average, sometimes saltier than average, and sometimes both. This process removes most of the harmful bacteria present before it can reach groundwater. Luckily, non-invasive root systems are less likely to interfere with sidewalks, sewers or your home. Shallow-rooted perennials require protection from frost. The septic tank is designed so that solids ("sludge") and scum will separate from liquids. Kickstart has a good point about shallow rooting; I don't think that is what you should be looking for. The catalyst for their exit is the entry of additional wastewater from the house. All Rights Reserved. The ingenious baffle is designed so that only the liquids can exit through the pipe. Screening plants don't have to be planted right on the boundary & squeezed between the existing plants. Plant a tree with non-invasive roots to solve problems brought on by protruding roots. The trenches are filled with crushed stone or gravel. The wastewater is said to "percolate" through the ground. In rural areas (which lack sewer systems), septic systems serve as wastewater treatment facilities. Creeping Charlie and jewelweed plants will multiply and cover a septic space nicely.​. Use low- to medium-height perennials such as daylilies, tough plants for sun or … But, in addition, some of the worst offenders are trees and shrubs with root systems that aggressively seek out sources of water. As you’re picking the right tree for the right place, think about how big that tree will get–and how far its roots will spread. To add light and color, use bright, light-colored, or patterned foliage plants and flowers. View our, How to Save Fruit Tree Blossoms and Fruit from a Late Freeze, How To Care For Fruit Trees In Early Spring. Homes, sidewalks and driveways are also in danger of becoming puckered or injured when roots tunnel under them. By continuing to use this site, you accept our use of cookies. Tree Service Experts Since 1880. You do not want roots penetrating the perforations and gumming up the works. In order to shade a two story building you will need to plant fairly large growing trees. Never dig deeply (you could damage the system). When tree roots are a factor, you need to plan on utilizing plants that will tolerate dry shade. Alternatively, azaleas are shallow rooted and like acidic conditions and can tolerate full shade… If you must grow trees and shrubs, shallow-rooted kinds are better to grow around septic tank drain fields. Subscribe to the "The Sapling" on the Davey Blog for the latest tips to keep your outdoor space in tip-top shape throughout the year. 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