Planting Tips for Over Underground Utilities

When gardening or landscaping, it is important to keep in mind that there may be underground utilities such as pipes, cables, or wires running beneath the surface. Planting over these utilities can be a delicate matter that requires some cautious planning. Here are some tips for planting over underground utilities:

1. Know Where Utilities Are Located

The first step before planting is to locate where the underground utilities are located. You can contact your local utility company or check their website to obtain a map of the utilities that run under your property. Before starting any work, it is recommended to have a professional come out and mark the areas where the utilities are located, so you can be absolutely sure of where to avoid planting.

2. Use the Right Plants

When selecting plants, it is important to choose ones that have shallow roots or don鈥檛 have aggressive root systems. You don't want to plant anything that could damage underground pipes or cables. Some good options include annuals, perennials, and bulbs. If you want to plant trees or shrubs, you need to make sure they won't grow too big or have invasive roots that could potentially damage underground utilities.

3. Create a Raised Bed

If you want to plant over utilities, but don't want to risk damaging them, you can create a raised bed. This will provide a barrier between the plant roots and the underground utilities. You can use materials such as bricks, stones, or concrete to create a raised bed. By creating a raised bed, you can still have a beautiful garden without damaging any underground utilities.

4. Practice Safe Digging Techniques

If you need to dig near underground utilities, it is important to use safe digging techniques. Using a shovel or other tools to dig can be dangerous and could potentially damage the utilities. You should always call your local utility service to have them mark where the utilities are located before you start digging. If you still need to dig near the utilities, use a hand trowel or small spade to minimize the risk of damage.

5. Maintain the Vegetation

Once you have planted your garden, it is important to maintain it properly. Make sure to water and fertilize the plants regularly to promote healthy growth. Keep an eye out for any changes in plant growth or discoloration. This could indicate a problem with the underground utilities and may require professional attention.

Conclusion

Planting over underground utilities requires careful consideration and planning. By knowing where the utilities are located, using the right plants, creating a raised bed, practicing safe digging techniques, and maintaining your garden, you can still have a beautiful landscape without damaging any underground utilities.