Will A Japanese Maple Tree Damage My Sewer Line?

Question

How aggressive are the Japanese Maple roots? Will they crack foundations or my nearby sewer line, or should I focus on Crepe Myrtle instead?

Answer 1

I wouldn't really recommend planting any tree or shrub near sewer lines or septic tanks. Especially Maples. They are notorious for damaging things with their roots.

I would opt, more, for shorter rooted plants.

Here is an article that will help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/fgen/septic-field-plant-choices.htm

Answer 2

There are trees like the Crepe Myrtle that are fine near sewer lines, see https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/crepe-myrtle/crepe-myrtle-root-system.htm

And those that are familiar with the Japanese Maple know they are not water-seekers like their Silver Maple cousins. Several sewer people suggest them for this reason, e.g.: https://bobscaping.com/roots-sewers