How to Kill Roots in a Septic Drain Field

Most septic systems consist of two major components: a septic tank, where solids settle out to be broken down by beneficial bacteria, and a septic drain field that distributes wastewater so that it can percolate slowly into the ground. In order for a drain field to function properly it cannot be subjected damaging agents like vehicle traffic or plant roots that reach the drain field and clog or otherwise injure drain field components. If roots do reach leaching beds or penetrate distribution pipes, the best treatment is to eliminate the source of the roots by removing the tree.

Shovel and other digging tools
Saw or other tree removal tools
Herbicide suitable for cut-stump treatments
Herbicide application tool (sprayer or brush)
Drain snake, auger or root saw
Root barrier fabric

Instructions

- 1
  Dig up a section around a distribution pipe where it is suspected that roots are present. This will confirm the presence of roots and allow a homeowner to be certain that it is the vegetation that is causing system problems.
- 2
  Remove the trees, shrubs or other plants that are producing the invasive roots.
- 3
  Treat the cut stumps with a suitable herbicide to prevent resprouting. Most herbicides for cut stump treatments should be sprayed or brushed on the cut surface as quickly as possible after the tree has been cut, focusing on the outermost few inches of the cut surface. Herbicides suitable for cut stump applications include 2,4-D, glyphosate, dicamba, triclopyr, picloram and imazapyr.
- 4
  Clean out the pipes using a drain snake, auger or root saw.
- 5
  Reduce water usage and system load. If the source of the roots has been removed or the roots have been adequately severed, they will eventually die and decay.

How to Make a Boom for a Pull-Behind Tank Sprayer

How to Cut & Lay Sod

Yard Maintenance