Question: What Plants Are Best for Septic Tank Drain Fields?

Reader, Saki writes, "What are good vs. bad trees, shrubs, ground covers to plant around a septic system?"

Answer:

Perennials or grasses work best around septic tank drain fields, because their smaller root systems are less likely to cause damage. If you must grow trees or shrubs, some types are worse than others, as you suggest. For example, you'd want to avoid:

• Pussy willows
• Aspen trees
• Red maple trees

Shallow-rooted trees and shrubs are better to grow around septic tank drain fields. Shallow-rooted trees and shrubs include:

• Dogwood trees
• Azaleas
• Boxwoods

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