Veggie Garden and Septic Drain field.

[HarleyBarley]

Hello all!

We have a septic system in our yard. I want to start a veggie garden but I don't know where to place my garden in proximity to my septic drain field. We're on a half acre with a house, so we have a lite room to work with. What are some general rules to follow here so that we can keep everything as clean as possible.

 

[nchls school]

Found online.

Planting over a septic leach field (drain field) is possible if it is done with care. ... Although turf grass is the typical choice, a variety of other herbaceous perennials, annuals and groundcovers can be safely and effectively planted. Vegetable gardening over a leach field is not recommended.Dec 30, 2019.
extension.unh.edu › blog › it-okay-plant-garden-over-l...

Can you garden over septic field?
It is generally considered a good idea to plant your septic field, but it isn't the ideal place for a vegetable garden. ... Do not plant root crops over drain lines. Leafy vegetables could be contaminated by rain splashing soil onto the plant, so either mulch them to eliminate splashing or don't grow them.

 

[HarleyBarley]

Found online.

Planting over a septic leach field (drain field) is possible if it is done with care. ... Although turf grass is the typical choice, a variety of other herbaceous perennials, annuals and groundcovers can be safely and effectively planted. Vegetable gardening over a leach field is not recommended.Dec 30, 2019.
extension.unh.edu › blog › it-okay-plant-garden-over-l...

Can you garden over septic field?
It is generally considered a good idea to plant your septic field, but it isn't the ideal place for a vegetable garden. ... Do not plant root crops over drain lines. Leafy vegetables could be contaminated by rain splashing soil onto the plant, so either mulch them to eliminate splashing or don't grow them.

I'm not planting crops over drain lines. I'm asking how close I can plant before it's unsafe. Do you have any first hand experience or are you just googling? I've googled quite a bit on this and have not found a direct answer to my question. Thanks.

 

[nchls school]

We have a drain field, but we also have a 3 acre yard so our garden is far away from the septic. If there is a slope to your yard try to stay uphill from the drain field. I'd suggest at least 15 ft away or farther.

 

[missmychicks]

We are in the same boat- wondering if you did build a raised bed or 2? How has it worked out for you?