Did you do some gardening and planting over the summer? We all love to be surrounded by greenery and nature in our own backyards – experts even talk about the health benefits! However, some plants are actually not quite suited to your everyday garden. You might think the little sapling is lovely to look at now, give it several years and it could potentially grow into a drain wrecking problem.
When planting, it is wise to do some research about the plant, its full life and size, and whether it can potentially damage your drains. Some plants have very strong, powerful and extensive root systems which are programmed to track and hunt down moisture, especially in times of drought or heat stress. Your drains are the perfect source for moisture, naturally. When plant roots infiltrate into your drains and sewers, they cause blockages and in some cases, even cracks which will require extensive and costly repairs.
To help you on the right path, here are some plants that are known to cause havoc to drains1:
Extreme Damage Potential
- Camphor Laurel
- Fig trees & rubber plants
- Poplars
- Willows
Very High Damage Potential
| · Coral Tree | · Casuarinas |
| · Large Gum Trees | · Australian White Cedar |
| · Jacaranda | · Pine Trees |
| · Liquidambar | · Plane Tree |
| · Norfolk Island & Bunya Pines | · Pepper Tree |
| · Illawarra Flame Tree | · Elms |
High Damage Potential
| · Bougainvillea | · Magnolias |
| · Pampas Grass | · Oleander |
| · Silky Oak | · Canary Island Date Palm |
| · Hollies | · Bamboos |
| · Norfolk Island Hibiscus | · Rhus Tree |
| · Privets | · Brush Box, Tristania |
| · Wisteria |
Generally you should avoid planting within 3 metres from storm water pipes or sewer drains. If you’re uncertain how your plumbing is laid out around your property, you can obtain plans from your local city council for guidance. Try to choose plants that are slow growing, low shrubs, or have a shallow root system. You can talk to your local garden centre or nursery before deciding what to plant.
If however, you find that your drains are blocked, slow running, or that large plants are already established in your property, Leak Spotters can help! Our leak detection experts can help you identify whether plant roots are the culprit to your problem with state-of-the-art equipment such as CCTV drain cameras. We can also detect cracks or damages, so you know exactly what needs to be done without guesswork or digging around. Give us a call today!
Related Tag: CCTV drain inspection Brisbane
Reference:
1. https://www.hunterwater.com.au