One of the best ways to prevent muck and debris from clogging your septic tank is by getting a filter – the right filter. Some homeowners can get by without a filtration system, but most others can’t live without one.

Today’s post will cover a few frequently asked questions concerning septic tank filters.

Tips for Maintaining a Septic Drain Field

A drain field (or leach field) is a not-too-far-underground system of pipes and trenches designed to treat wastewater by dispersing it into the soil. In normal conditions, trenches are about 18 to 30 inches deep. The depth is determined by factors like soil type, local regulations, and the design of the septic system.

What is a Drain Field?

For septic tank owners, a drain field serves an important role in business or residential wastewater treatment. Its purpose is to evenly spread out the wastewater flowing from a septic system. Plastic pipes push effluent into the soil, which naturally breaks down harmful bacteria, helping to protect groundwater from being contaminated.

Typical components of a drain field include a distribution box, perforated plastic pipes, gravel beds that act as filters, filter fabric for debris control, and connecting lines that tie all the elements together.

Drain Field Soil Maintenance

Homeowners can get the most from their septic system by properly maintaining the soil within the field. If it’s healthy, not only does it keep your leach field functioning properly, but it also extends the lifespan and efficiency of the whole system.

Routine inspections are important to maintaining a healthy leach field. Leach field issues can range from minor clogs to complete system failure. When your leach field is saturated and your septic system backs up, it’s no fun for anyone!

Trying to troubleshoot a few issues? Curious about setting your field on a regular maintenance schedule? The experts at Missouri Septic Services can help. Visit missouriseptic.com to learn more.

Plant Recommendations For a Drain Field

You’ve probably heard horror stories about roots wrecking septic systems. And that can happen. Once roots get into your pipes, there aren’t many good options.

But don’t let possible root damage keep you from planting anything in your drain field. The right kinds of plants will have shallow root systems that consistently sip excess water…and help hold the soil together to prevent erosion.

Safe-for-Septic Plant Options

So what plants can you plant over your septic tank and drain field, without having to worry? Because their roots stay shallow, ornamental grasses are a good choice. Some non-woody bushes are ok, too, such as azaleas, boxwoods, and holly.

Other safe-for-septic plant options:

Tall fescue grass
Creeping Charlie
Kentucky bluegrass
Stonecrop
Jewelweed

It’s possible to safely plant trees and shrubs around your septic system, but only if they put down shallow roots. This includes smaller trees, such as:

Flowering dogwoods (Missouri’s official “state tree!”)
Japanese maples
Redbuds
Cherry
Dwarf varieties

The soil around septic systems is often wetter and/or saltier than average. Perennial plants like bee balm, hollyhocks, and wild violets tolerate wet, salty ground, making them good choices for planting.

Not sure what kind of plants you want? Assess your sunlight situation. Perennials are great for sunlit areas, whereas shade garden plants will fare better in areas of low to moderate sun. Still, it’s best to choose perennials over annuals if you can. When you choose low-maintenance plants fit for the environment, you can enjoy the greenery without worry.

Here are a few more helpful tips for maintaining your drain field:

Keep gardening/digging to a minimum
If you have to dig, wear gloves
Avoid adding extra soil or heavy mulch
Water plants sparingly

Plants to Avoid in Your Leach Field

Your drain field pipes can be damaged by fast-growing trees and water-loving shrubs. They aggressively seek out sources of water…and your pipes are easy targets. Once they’ve been pierced by roots, it can take extensive repairs or even a full rebuild to fix the issue. Before you make big decisions about your septic system, take a look at Missouri Septic Services. Friendly advice is just a phone call away!

DO NOT plant these trees/shrubs over your septic system:

American sweetgum
Ash
Aspen
Birch
Beech
Elm
Lombardy poplars
Maple trees (except Japanese)
Tulip trees
Willows (pussy, Japanese, weeping)

Sometimes, the bright green grass growing over a drain field tempts gardeners to plant fruits and vegetables there. However, it’s not safe to plant a garden over a leach field. The possibility of bacteria from the system contaminating the crops makes leach field gardens a risky proposition.

For advice and repairs from a company that cares, choose Missouri Septic Services!

Our team of experienced technicians is trained to handle any issue—including drain field maintenance and repairs. As a family-owned and operated business based in Springfield, MO, we understand the importance of keeping your septic system functioning correctly, not just for the health and safety of your family but also for the environment.

We pride ourselves on providing environmentally friendly sewage and non-hazardous wastewater disposal services and expert septic system repairs and installations. Contact Missouri Septic Services today!