With spring is in full swing, you may be considering updates to your landscape. But if your property relies on a septic tank for waste management, you must be careful your plant choices won’t compromise your system. Luckily, A & C Septic Tanks & Portable Toilets has the expertise to help you select plants that are non-threatening to septic systems. Check out the below guide before you head to your nursery or garden center.

Plants That Are Safe to Use Around Septic Systems

Most septic systems are installed underground in yards and covered with grass. Luckily, this groundcover is harmless to underground waste management. Its shallow roots post no risk of growing deep enough to damage your septic tank or drain field.

If you want to plant flowers over your system, choose perennials. Since these low-upkeep plants generally live for two years or more, they don’t require as much maintenance as annuals. This reduces the amount of disruption to the soil around your septic system.

Problems That May Arise

Trees are the most troublesome plants for septic systems, due to their incredibly large, strong roots. Tree roots seek moisture and nutrients, both of which are abundant in septic  and sewer pipes. For this reason, you should never plant trees above plumbing of any kind. As a general rule, keep them the same distance away from underground components as they are expected to grow in height. If you don’t, tree roots can puncture and crack your septic tank and disrupt the drain field.

It’s also important to note that you shouldn’t plant vegetables or herbs near septic systems. These edible plants can absorb harmful bacteria from the waste underground. Similarly, since the soil near the septic tank is exceptionally moist, you should stay away from using plants that prefer minimal amounts of water.

If you’re still unsure whether certain plants are appropriate near septic systems in Douglas, GA, contact A & C Septic Tanks & Portable Toilets for help. They are experts on septic management, and they will be happy to inform your landscape choices. For more information about their services, including portable toilet rentals, visit the website. You can also call (912) 383-7005 for septic system help.