growing near a septic tank

Richy Blue · Posted: Fri Oct 01, 2010 3:59 pm Post subject: growing near a septic tank

Hello,

I am new to this firum and have a fresh,if overgrown plot which I am about to start work on. Is there any issue regarding growing fruit and veg near an existing septic tank. Anyone with any advice would be appreciated, cheers

dinahdabble · Posted: Fri Oct 01, 2010 9:54 pm Post subject:

I had friends who had a chemical toilet (elsan-blue was the additive in those days) and emptied it into a trench. They grew Rhubbarb right next to it. The Rhubbarb was delighted, noboddy ever suffered any ill effects and the Rhubbarb didn't turn blue. Don't take my word for it though, I only eat the pies because I never quibble when offered pie. Laughing

I should have been more aware of the chemicals involved, but those were the bad ol' days. Dried and treated sewage are used as fertiliser all over the world. I, personaly, wouldn't worry unless I was putting lots of chemicals in the tank and I susspected they were leaching out. Perhaps someone else on the forum knows better???

James Kilkelly · Posted: Sat Oct 02, 2010 7:33 pm Post subject: Re: growing near a septic tank

Good thread on it here already Richy Blue........ Siting of Veg Plot, septic tank risk?

Richy Blue · Posted: Mon Oct 04, 2010 12:18 pm Post subject:

Thanks for that, not used to navigating this site well yet. I guess giving the septic tank a wide berth as far as growing underground is the best bet. cheers