Knowledgebase
Native flower meadow over septic field #780751
Asked January 24, 2022, 8:46 PM EST
Washtenaw County Michigan
Expert Response
Good Evening,
Interestingly, the OSU specialist who authored this article advocates for a lawn above a septic system. But if you want to replace the grass, this WSU Extension article has some great recommendations for the substituted plants. As you can see, the author advises against landscape fabric, plastic sheeting, and mulches as a long-range cover. Suppressing the existing lawn by covering it with newspaper and/or cardboard, both of which are water and air pervious, are less of a risk, but you also might want to consider using a sod remover, and then pull what plants remain.
Thanks for using our service. I hope this helps. Good luck!