Your septic tank sorts and separates solids from liquids and gradually releases this wastewater into the soil around the tank called the drain field. It’s an important part of your septic tank’s process, but this doesn’t mean this area is off-limits for your landscaping. Planting greenery over your septic tank is not only a good idea for aesthetic reasons, but it’s also helpful for your septic system. Certain types of plants help to prevent erosion and absorb excess moisture from the drain field. Some forms of greenery are better than others for this location. The following guide explains what greenery serves as a useful addition to your landscaping and what you should avoid. 

What Is Safe to Plant Over Your Septic Tank

Grass is one of the best choices to plant over your septic tank due to the shallow root systems. Plant grasses such as tufted fescues, Kentucky bluegrass, and feather grass.

If you want to add some color or take a more ornate approach to your landscaping, consider perennials and non-woody, ground covering plants with root systems shallow enough to not invade the drain field or tank. Colorful perennials like asters and daylilies look beautiful in the summer, while ground covering options like mondo grass and wintercreeper look pretty year-round. The advantage of flowering plants over grass is that they discourage foot traffic over the area. High volume of traffic over the tank or drain field can cause soil compaction. 

What Isn’t Safe to Plant Over Your Septic Tank

Plants with aggressive water-seeking root systems and trees are not safe to plant over your tank. Willows, bamboo, woody vines, and any trees that have strong root lateral root growth should be avoided, as the roots will eventually make their way to your septic tank and puncture it. Prairie grasses, which are no-mow and ornamental, should also be avoided. Their root systems are some of the longest and strongest. 

Whether you need repairs or maintenance for your septic tank or simply have questions about your system, the experts at P & H Construction and Septic Service in Uncasville, CT, are here to help. In addition to keeping your septic system running smoothly and efficiently, they have an outstanding reputation for customer care. No matter what the issue is, you can count on this experienced team to work quickly and diligently to resolve it. Call (860) 848-8507 to discuss your septic concerns or visit them online to browse their services.