What plants can be planted near drain pipes?
Wondering which plants are safe to grow near stormwater drains or sewer pipes? We've got all the information you need to protect your drains from tree root damage .
Expert Tip - best practice is not to plant trees over drain lines.
Plants can play a big role in keeping your garden looking great. They not only add colour and life, but they can also help improve air quality. Along with providing shade and attracting beautiful birds, plants can create a beautiful outdoor area for your family to enjoy.
However, it’s important to choose the right plants for the right places across your property – especially if you don't want to encounter problems with your sewer pipes in the future.
How do tree roots damage pipes?
The extent of damage to sewer pipes depends on the species of tree and its proximity to the pipe. Roots normally extend around 1.5 times the length of mature plant branches. They will seek out moisture and nutrients for continuous growth, often making their way into small cracks in drain pipes.
When tree roots reach water lines they will take every advantage to get inside the pipes, generally, this is achieved through small cracks or fractures, or ill-fitted pipe joints.
Once tree roots enter your sewer pipes they will experience reduced water flow and eventually result in a complete blockage.
Points to consider when choosing what and where to plant in your garden
There are a few things you need to take into account when planting near drain pipes. The type of plant, the size of the plant, and how close to the pipe the plant is planted are all important factors to consider.
How far can you plant trees from sewer lines?
There really is no clear-cut answer, however, if you check the size of a full-grown tree and make sure the distance from your pipes is at ease equal to that of the tree's height or spread. As a rough estimate and guide, if you take into account that the root systems of many trees are a similar width and depth as the branches. This should help with your plant decisions.
Trees and bushes to avoid planting near drains
- Bottlebrushes
- Banksia
- Birch tree
- Camphor Laurel
- Crepe Myrtle
- Eucalyptus/ gum
- Figs
- Hibiscus
- Jacaranda
- Magnolias
- Oak
- Pines
- Poplar Tree
- Silver Maple
- Wattle Acacia
- Willow tree
Trees and bushes that are safe to grow near drains
Bamboo is often seen in Australian gardens, it provides shade and makes your garden look tropical and beautiful. It's often planted as a border and is great for privacy fencing. Bamboo is a sewer-friendly plant option, as it has a fine surface root system that will not seek out drain pipes or block them. Additionally, it's a great help with drainage, as it absorbs and stores large amounts of water in its rhizomes as in the stems and soil.
Other suitable plants to grow near stormwater and sewer drains include:
- Azaleas
- Bay Tree
- Bronze Cottonwood Coastal Golden Wattle
- Feijoa
- Japanese Maple
- Olive Tree
- Tulipwood
- Native Gardenia
How to avoid drain pipe issues
- Only plant shrubs or small plants with non-invasive roots.
- Install a root barrier - available from a hardware store and nurseries.
- Request a drainage plan from your local council or builder to find out exactly where your pipes are located.
- Locate medium to large trees or bushes approximately 3 metres from sewer pipes.
- Avoid planting near freshly laid pipes as roots are attracted to softer soil.
Telltale signs of a blocked drain
- Unpleasant odour from your drains
- Toilets that are not flushing completely
- Overflowing outdoor drains
- Water takes a long time to drain away in sinks or toilets
Local drainage solutions in Brisbane and its surrounds
Reline Solutions are your pipe relining and drain repair specialists. We are the leaders in “NO DIG“ drain repairs. We stand by our work with the utmost pride.
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