Raised Bed Garden Over Septic Drain Field

How deep should a raised bed over a septic system field be to avoid seepage into vegetables?

Is there still a danger if I use garden fabric to line the bed or should I make the bed off the ground which is much more difficult to make?


Answer:

According to the county extension service, it is not recommended to plant a vegetable garden over a septic drain field.

There is a risk of contamination if you plant the garden directly in the ground.

Also building a raised bed over a drain field is not recommended as adding the extra soil for the raised bed can interfere with the process that takes place within the septic system.

I don't know what to tell you about building a raised bed off the ground over your drain field. I recommend that you talk to your local county extension agent to see if it would be acceptable.

Perhaps you can come up with a container garden plan that will solve the problem?

Please let us know what you find, as I am sure there are other gardeners with the same question.