While a septic system may be essential at your home in the Briarcliff Manor or Tarrytown, NY, areas, a new septic tank can seem like an unsightly prospect. If you’re like many homeowners, you are likely curious about ways that you can beautify the space—or at least make it more discreet.

First and foremost, it’s important to note that aesthetics should always come second to the function of the septic system and nothing should interfere. If you are unsure of the exact area where all of the septic system components are located, your septic tank company can verify it for you.

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Plantings That Are Safe Near Septic Systems

You will want to avoid having certain plants added near your septic system. Aggressive root systems can cause damage, including ruptured pipes in the drain field and in the septic tank itself. Choosing septic-system-friendly plantings is essential and can actually have added benefits.

Grass is a great option to cover a drain field, but it shouldn't be planted above a septic tank cover because this is the location where the septic system is accessed for maintenance and pump-outs. However, planting tall native grasses or ornamental grasses with fibrous roots around the opening can help conceal the tank lid. Since their root systems are shallow, they are far less likely to cause any damage to the septic system.

Other plantings that could be great choices for near a septic system are bee balm, hollyhocks, and wild violets. These plants also tolerate wet soil and salt, which can be a concern near septic tank drain fields.

A Disguised Access Hatch

There are numerous ways that you can disguise the access hatch that will not interfere with access but can add a decorative element that is more visually pleasing.

Artificial rock covers are available that will fit over the access hatch. These are lightweight and can be easily removed, but they resemble natural stone and have a better aesthetic than a septic system access hatch.

Some homeowners prefer to use an old wine or whiskey barrel to cover the septic system access hatch. The entire barrel can be placed there, or the barrel can be cut in half. A potted plant could be placed on top of the barrel to further beautify the space.

There are also a number of decorative lid covers on the market, including wishing well planters, faux tree stumps, and numerous lid covers with various textures and styles. Make sure that whatever is used can easily be removed when the time comes to repair the septic tank.

Decorative Features Over the Septic Lid

Placing a decorative Amish wagon filled with potted plants and flowers over the access hatch is another great way of concealing it. With this feature, it can easily be rolled away when access is needed. You could also place lightweight potted plants or even a birdbath by the access hatch.

A Moveable Rock Garden

Placing small rocks around the septic system area is another way that you can disguise the area. These rocks may be placed farther out from the access hatch, but in such a way that it blocks the view. Septic-system-friendly plantings can also be included to beautify the moveable rock garden area.

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