If you're insistent on growing trees and shrubs around your septic system, shallow-rooted kinds are best, such as: Dogwoods. Japanese maples. Eastern redbuds.
Here are some example of trees and shrubs with shallow root systems that are safe to plant near your septic system: Japanese Maple Trees. Holly Shrubs. Dogwood Trees.
Even worse, a tree root could penetrate the septic tank, break open the sides, and cause a severe spill of septic fluid. A sewage spill of this type will trigger patches of green growth that is denser than usual for the lawn.
Golden raintree is a recommended tree for urban landscapes near sewer lines. Smoketree is a unique, diminutive tree with a small root system.
Do: Plant grass or keep existing native vegetation. These are the best covers for your drainfield. Direct all surface drainage away from the septic system.
Any tree you do plant should be located at least 20 to 50 feet away from the septic line. Shrubs should be at least 10 feet away. If you smell rotten eggs, your toilet is backing up, or your drains are slow, your septic line may be invaded by plant roots.
Using chemical root removal treatments is an effective method of killing roots and deterring their growth. The copper sulfate mix is flushed into the sewage tank using commercially available copper sulfate mix. As a poison barrier, the mixture kills tree roots and prevents them from growing into sewer lines.
Keep all trees and shrubs at least 10 feet away from your sewer lateral. This goes for even the smallest, slowest growing species. Trees with spreading roots and species that require large amounts of water should be planted at least 20 feet from any underground pipe or utility line.
Don't Put Anything Non-Biodegradable in Your Septic System
Cigarette butts. Disposable diapers. Paper towels.
When a tree root penetrates your septic tank, it absorbs the nutrients from the water inside the septic system. As a result, the root will also absorb the chemicals from that water. Not only could you be facing thousands of dollars in repairs, but the tree will be producing fruit that is unsafe to eat.
Root killer works best on smaller root issues. If your pipe is already fully blocked, it probably won't be enough to clear the pipe. In that case, you might need a plumber to take a look at more serious methods like hydro jetting. Not all root killers are safe for septic systems.
Consider shallow-rooted trees and shrubbery (such as cherry trees, dogwood trees, holly shrubs, azalea shrubs and boxwood shrubs) for areas around the septic system, but keep them at least 10-15 feet away from your tank.
Boxwood (Buxus)
Boxwoods have shallow root systems, so they can easily be planted near your foundation without worry.
Grass is the ideal cover for drainfields. Grasses can be ornamental, mowed in a traditional lawn, or in an unmowed meadow. Or, you can try groundcovers and fems. The key to planting over the drainfield is to select shallow-rooted, low-maintenance, low-water-use plants.
Keeping trees at least 50 feet away from septic systems is ideal, but if you plan on growing plants like willows, shoot for 100 feet. Give your leach field a wide berth when planning out your landscape. Grasses, or even wildflowers, over your septic area make a better alternative.
Removing roots from your septic tank costs from $1,000 to $5,000. Over time, tree and plant roots grow into the tank or pipes. If the issue is minor, the job can be done cheaply.
Not usually. While insurance may help cover damage to your property caused by tree roots, it generally won't cover costs associated specifically with the sewer lines.
Silver maple tree
They might be prized for their vibrant colour in autumn, but their root systems are one of the most invasive of all. As the roots enlarge, silver maple trees have been known to crack driveways, pavements, foundations and pipes. It's best to avoid planting this tree altogether.
Roots can raise sidewalks as silver maples can but they have a less aggressive root system and so they make a good street tree. Surface roots beneath the canopy can make mowing difficult. Red Maple is easily transplanted and usually develops surface roots in soil ranging from well- drained sand to clay.
Household septic tanks are typically pumped every three to five years. Alternative systems with electrical float switches, pumps, or mechanical components should be inspected more often, generally once a year.
In order to keep your septic system running properly, you should avoid building on or near your leach field. While it's important to follow state and local building codes, plan to break ground at least 10 to 20 feet from where your leach field is buried.