How to Plant Over a Sand Mound Septic System

Planting Seeds on the Septic Tank

• 1

  Use a heavy-tined rake to loosen the soil over the septic tank. Be careful to avoid digging too deeply, as this can possibly damage the tank or pipes.

• 2

  Spray the area with water. This helps the seeds to stick better than on dry soil.

• 3

  Mix the flower seeds with dry sand. The sand promotes better seed distribution. Use sand of a different color than the septic tank sand to aid in seeing where seeds are dropping.

• 4

  Use a large-holed shaker (sugar shakers work well) or your hands to broadcast the seed mixture across the septic mound.

• 5

  Cover the seeds with the recommended amount of soil for their species. Check the seed packet for directions for the specific type of seeds you are planting.

• 6

  Water the seeds with a gentle spray of water. Keep the soil slightly moist until the seedlings have two or three sets of true leaves.

Potted Septic Tank Garden

• 7

  Pot all invasive, deep-rooted shrubs, flowers and trees for use on and around septic tanks. Avoid planting them directly in the ground, as their roots will grow into the surrounding septic lines. Invasive plants include --- but are not limited to --- willow, Chinese elm and maple trees.

• 8

  Mix enough compost and native soil together to create a friable potting soil.

• 9

  Add enough potting soil to the pots to bring the plants' top roots 1 to 2 inches below the pots' surface.

• 10

  Pot the plant, firming the soil around its roots with your fingers.

• 11

  Saturate the soil with water to settle the plant and remove any remaining air pockets.

• 12

  Arrange the potted plants around the septic tank. Avoid placing anything heavy directly over the lines or the tank itself.