When you have a septic system in the 951 area, your backyard isn’t just a garden—it’s a functional part of your home’s waste treatment. One of the most common ways homeowners damage their drain fields is by planting the wrong vegetation, leading to root intrusion and total system failure.
At Davis Plumbing, we want your yard to look great without causing a plumbing catastrophe. Here is your guide to septic-safe landscaping.
The Golden Rule: Shallow Roots Only
The drain field (or leach field) relies on evaporation and healthy soil to treat wastewater. If you plant anything with deep, aggressive roots, they will seek out the moisture in your pipes, grow inside them, and cause a massive backup.
Safe to Plant:
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Grasses: Traditional lawn grass is the best choice.
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Wildflowers: Most local California wildflowers have shallow root systems.
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Perennials: Small flowers like bulbs or groundcovers are generally safe.
Never Plant (The “Septic Killers”):
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Willows and Maples: These trees have water-seeking roots that can travel over 100 feet to find your pipes.
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Vegetable Gardens: You should never grow food over a drain field due to the risk of bacterial contamination.
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Large Shrubs: Their weight can compact the soil, preventing the “breathing” your system needs.
Landscaping Tips for Success
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Don’t Add Soil: Adding more than a couple of inches of topsoil over the drain field can “suffocate” the system.
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Keep the Water Off: Don’t install an automatic sprinkler system directly over the field; excess water can saturate the soil and stop the treatment process.
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Mark Your Lids: Use decorative rocks or light potted plants to hide your septic riser or tank lids so they are easy to find for your next septic pump.
Protect Your Investment
A beautiful yard shouldn’t come at the cost of your plumbing. If you suspect roots have already entered your lines, you need a professional inspection before the damage becomes permanent.
Call Davis Plumbing at (951) 657-0393. We serve the entire Riverside County area and can help you identify potential landscaping hazards before they lead to a high septic system cost.