Q: Should I be concerned with moss growing on the weeping bed of our septic
system? We've lived at our beach property since 1991, and every year the
moss takes over a bit more. Other weeping beds in our area don't have this
problem. The tank has just been cleaned and inspected, and the septic guy
didn't know what to make of the moss.
A: The moss you're seeing isn't an indication of problems with your septic
system, so you can breathe easy. That said, there are reasons you might
consider encouraging the growth of grass instead. Moss doesn't look terrific
on a lawn, and grass does a better job of helping water to evaporate from
the weeping bed. Moss moves into areas where soil has become acidic,
especially if those areas are shady. But since most septic beds aren't near
large trees, your situation is probably tied more directly with soil acidity
alone. And in this case, agricultural lime is the cure. It's nothing more
than pulverized limestone, so it's quite safe to use. It also works well to
buffer those acid conditions that favour moss growth. Three or four 20 kg
bags will be plenty to do most weeping beds. There's no need to incorporate
the lime, just dump some in a wheelbarrow, broadcast it evenly with a shovel
and wait. It will take time for grass to reestablish itself, but you can aid
the process by spreading grass seed. My favourite sowing time is in March,
just as the spring is emerging. Sprinkle the seed on the snow, then let
frost and rainwater work it into the soil naturally. This approach boosts
germination rates considerably.
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