Landscaping efforts can create a lush, beautiful yard that enhances your home’s curb appeal. However, these projects can cause significant issues with your septic tank and other wastewater equipment if you're not careful. This guide explores a few landscaping basics for septic system owners. 

Do:

Be careful where you plant.

When trees and shrubs are too close to your septic system, root intrusion can cause a lot of damage. Trees should be planted as many feet away as the tree will be when it reaches full maturity. For example, if a tree will eventually grow to be 20 feet tall, it should be at least 20 feet away from the septic system.

Plants with shallow root systems, such as perennials and turfgrass, can be planted over the drain field without issue. 

Watch out for heavy-duty landscaping equipment. 

Leaving heavy equipment like riding mowers or vehicles on the ground above your septic system will compress the soil underneath. Soil compression can damage your septic tank or clog piping in the drain field, which requires costly repairs. If you have professional landscapers, make sure they’re aware of the location of the wastewater system so they can avoid it. 

Don’t:

Overwater the lawn.

Flooding the drain field with water is another common cause of soil compaction. While your plants need water to grow, too much can be a bad thing. Over time, compacted soil can clog piping, which leads to backups in your home. Consider using an automatic sprinkler system to control the amount of water your yard gets. 

Grow vegetables near the septic system.

Treated water coming from the septic tank flows out of the drain field into the surrounding soil. This is an essential part of the filtering process that allows the water to safely return to the water table. However, vegetables growing near the drain field are likely to absorb bacteria from wastewater and may cause serious illness if consumed. Make sure all vegetables are planted at least 10 feet away from septic equipment.

Despite your best efforts, there may come a time when you require septic repair at your home. In Lewisburg, PA, Mark Cromley Septic & Excavation Service is here to help. With more than 30 years of experience, these professionals are equipped to deal with any issues that arise. In addition to repairs, they also offer tank pumping and replacement. Visit the website for a full list of services or call (570) 524-0249 to schedule an appointment.