Drain fields are a vital component of a septic system – and one of the most expensive to replace. One of the best ways to avoid stress and unnecessary spending on Mount Dora drain field repair is to know the difference between plants which are safe to plant on and around your drain field and which are not. Acme is here to help you learn more about this topic, avoid the headache, and still have the garden of your dreams.
What Is A Drain Field?
Your septic system is composed of two primary parts: the septic tank and the drain field, or leach field. The septic tank is located underground and functions to filter the wastewater that flows from a home or business.
After this water is treated, it flows out into a series of chambers that also lie beneath the ground, where it is further treated before flowing back into the earth. This second step in the process of filtration is performed in the drain field. After a drain field is installed, these chambers are covered with dirt, grass is usually planted over the surface, and they are no longer visible.
If you are in the market for Mount Dora drain field repair or installation, Acme provides both of these services. Our goal is to help you avoid unnecessary repairs by going over some septic-friendly landscaping tips with you today.
Why Are There Guidelines For Planting Over Septic Systems?
Many homeowners want to have the freedom to landscape any part of their property. The main reason for landscaping is that it improves the appearance of your yard. Many plants and trees can even work to benefit your home’s septic system by preventing soil erosion.
Improper Landscaping Can Shorten Your Drain Feild’s Life
The reason why it is important to understand guidelines for planting or landscaping over a drain field is because unknowingly planting the wrong things over or near a drain field can cause damage and shorten your drain field’s life.
Drain Fields Are Expensive To Replace
If the drain field is damaged, it can be very expensive to replace. The average cost of a drain field replacement is $3,000-$15,000. That is a large amount of money to hand over for something that could be avoided. If you are worried that you may need a drain field replacement, there are some signs you can look for before you make an appointment.
Damage Can Negatively Impact The Environment
Environmental contamination is something else that can result from a damaged septic drain field. Septic waste contains toxins that are harmful to the environment if they are released before it has been fully processed. If contamination does occur, it can cause illness in people and animals, so knowing how to avoid damage to any part of your septic system is an important step in overall care.
What Plants Should Not Be Placed Near A Septic Drain Field?
Any plants or trees whose roots grow deeply under the soil should not be planted over or near a drain field. The EPA has a convenient fact sheet that lists some guidelines about planting and building near a septic system.
Plants and trees that require a lot of water to survive should not be planted near your drain field. Weeping willows provide a great example of this. These types of trees thrive in extremely moist environments – like the area around your septic drain field – and will naturally be attracted to it. As the roots grow closer, the risk that they could intercept and damage your drain field increases.
Anything edible, like vegetables, should not be planted over or near a drain field. This is because there is a risk of effluent from wastewater contaminating them and resulting in illness.
Even though Acme specializes in services such as drain field and septic installation and would love to help you with yours, we know how much of a headache it can be to have to deal with these types of challenges and want to help you avoid them. If an accident does occur, the next best thing you can do is to give us a call for your Mount Dora drain field repair.
What Can Be Planted On Or Around A Septic Drain Field?
Any type of grass may be planted above a septic drain field. Grasses have shallow enough root systems that they will not affect the drain field. These could include:
Kentucky bluegrass
Tall fescue grass
Creeping charlie
Stonecrop
Jewelweed
Trees and shrubs are not generally recommended to be planted above drain fields, but there are certain types that may be planted nearby. These may include:
Dogwood trees
Cherry trees
Boxwood shrubs
Holly shrubs
Japanese maple trees
Whatever types of trees or shrubs you do choose to plant near a septic system, you must be sure that their root systems are shallow enough that they will not damage your drain field or disrupt necessary moisture levels.
Avoid Unnecessary Repairs With Acme
Septic systems come with potential risks for damage, but with the help of some key septic-care knowledge, you can avoid having to take on extra expenses and the headaches that damage and repairs bring with them.
Contact Acme today if you have any questions about septic care or are in need of one of our services. We want to equip those in the Mount Dora area with everything they need for septic success.
