Plumbing pipes and drains: they’re the silent heroes of our homes. Without asking for anything in return, they quietly do their thing to whisk waste and water away, and keep your home operating efficiently and healthily. Unfortunately, though, they’re prone to a build-up of grease and debris, corrosion and damage, and ground movement, temperature extremes and high water pressure. But among your drains’ absolute worst enemies are nature’s masterpieces, offering shade, clean air and beauty – trees. And some of the worst trees for drains may really surprise you.
The problem, of course, is those otherwise majestic trees’ relentless root systems – which do little else than constantly seeking out moisture and nutrients. When a tiny, hair-like root wiggles its way into a similarly small crack in your underground drains and pipes, it’s then in its element, soaking up the moist and nutrient-rich environment and expanding at a rapid pace to become a serious blockage. Worst still, that thick, tangled mess of roots in pipes can open up that initial crack and become nothing short of a plumbing nightmare.
Planning your garden? Beware these 10 worst trees for drains
And the worst trees for sewer lines and drains in Queensland? We’re talking about the species with the most aggressive root systems and propensity to seek out the kind of moisture and nutrients that dwell inside your drains. So before you plant one anywhere near your plumbing infrastructure, here’s what our Gold Coast blocked drain specialists and most local tree arborists report:
1. Fig trees
Fig trees’ canopies may be majestic, but so are their expansive root systems that never give up their relentless quest for moisture and nutrients, no matter the obstacles.
2. Camphor Laurel
Prized for their aromatic timber and ornamental value, it’s also one of the most invasive trees across Queensland and beyond, with vigorous roots that tend to damage sewer lines all too often.
3. Umbrella trees
They’re vital to Queensland rainforests, but their roots are aggressive – so beware.
4. Golden Bamboo
Admirers love how quickly they grow – but watch out, because those roots grow extremely rapidly as well.
5. Poplar trees
They look stately and give plenty of shade to those who love a quiet moment with a book. But those extensive roots are ever-thirsty for water.
6. Liquidambar
In autumn, the foliage looks utterly sensational! But beneath the surface, the root system is robust and mean – and all too prepared to tap into your drainage systems.
7. Lilly Pilly
More of a hedge than a tree, so you’ll see plenty of these – and their striking berries – in Brisbane gardens. But most occupants are never fully aware of what the roots are capable of until disaster strikes.
8. Clumping Palms
A similar offender is the popular Golden Cane Palm – offering a tropical touch to your yard but with highly invasive roots that you really need to consider.
9. Moreton Bay Fig
Like just about any fig, the Moreton Bay variety really is majestic, and you’d even go so far as to say it’s a true symbol of Queensland. But the root network is vast and furious, and commonly interferes with your underground plumbing.
10. Willow trees
We often equate Willow trees with a weeping, picturesque, peaceful calm. But they’re thirstier than you can imagine, and those water-seeking roots are often more than a match for your precious drains.
The takeaway: Plant wisely & trust the drain experts
Got your heart set on planting one of these beauties? Just remember to pick a spot a considerable distance from the buildings and infrastructure that really matter to you – especially those hidden underground drains & pipes! If you need more advice or an aggressive tree root system has triggered a plumbing nightmare at your place, get in touch with Drain Masters Plumbing – the go-to business specialising in CCTV drain inspections, clearing and maintenance.
Need help with drain cleaning Gold Coast, or clearing drain blockages in Tweed Heads? Give the friendly team a shout today.
