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There are many ways to cut through roots when digging, especially if your trencher doesn’t seem to be removing the roots. First, use a shovel to expose the roots. Then, use gardening shears to clear out smaller roots or a reciprocating saw to remove larger plant roots. If you plan on keeping the plant, avoid cutting any roots over 2 inches thick.

No, a ditch isn’t a trench. A ditch is an open, relatively shallow channel that’s carved out of the ground and used for drainage purposes. In contrast, a trench is a deeper excavation that’s entirely underground. Trenches have many uses, including gas lines, sewage systems, and electrical wiring. Unlike trenches, ditches don’t get filled back in with dirt after they’re dug.

This depends on your location. Sewer lines can be buried anywhere from 18 inches to 8 feet deep. People in colder climates will have deeper sewer lines than people in warmer climates due to the dangers of the frost line and freezing pipes. Permits are required for all aspects of septic system installation, so the city should have the building plans for your system, which will tell you how deep your lines are.

Septic tanks are typically buried between four inches and four feet deep, depending on the property, the soil, and the size of the tank. When the septic tank is buried on the deeper end of this range, it may be harder for you to locate it on your own with a soil probe or just by observing the yard for signs of the tank. However, if you have trouble finding the septic tank, a pro will be happy to help you.