Septic fields- what can you plant on it?

Why Have Plants on Your Septic Field?

There are many reasons to plant on your septic field. Plants can help your septic drain system to function at its best by removing moisture and nutrients from the soil. Plant cover is also important to reduce soil erosion. At a minimum, the leach field should be planted with a dense cover of grass to provide these important benefits.  

In general, shallow-rooted herbaceous plants that are not excessively water-loving are best. A leach field is a series of relatively shallow (a minimum of 6 inches below the surface) underground perforated pipes set in gravel trenches that allow septic tank effluent to drain over a large area. As the effluent seeps into the ground, it is purified by the soil. Plant roots can help remove excess moisture and nutrients thereby making the purification of the remaining effluent more efficient. However, roots that clog or disrupt the pipes will seriously damage the drainage field. The challenge of septic field gardening is to find plants that will meet your landscape needs but not clog the drain pipes. 

Salt levels are likely to be high no matter what the pH is, so plan to use plants that are somewhat salt tolerant in a leach field landscape.

Some smaller and less-aggressive woody species may be suitable for planting over the drain field. Some possibilities include fibrous rooted shrubs such as boxwood or holly, or small trees such as dogwoods. When planting shrubs in a leach field, place them between the lines when possible. Normally, drainage trenches are 3 feet wide with 6 feet between trenches. 

Its not advised to plant trees or vegetable crops on septic fields; and always wear gardening gloves when planting, weeding or doing other gardening activities that involve contact with the soil over your drain field. This will protect you from direct contact with any harmful organisms that may be present in the soil.

If you follow these guidelines, your septic field will be more functional and attractive. 

photo by: www.iowpa.org

excerpt of this post are taken from article written by:Susan D. Day, Extension Associate; Ellen Silva, former Extension Technician; Horticulture, Virginia Tech