Planting around pool edge, concerns with piping, equipment etc (design, backyard)

[JoeJude]

Hi City Data,

I'm in the process of having my backyard re-done and want to plant some things towards the back of the yard, only problem is my pool piping runs under this section, which is at most 4 feet from the concrete. I'm not exactly sure where the piping is.

What should I plant or can I plant for that matter that would not have invasive roots?

How can I best find where the piping is exactly to avoid landscapers accidentally damaging it with a shovel?

Or... any alternative ideas if I can't plant, rock design, etc.

Thanks as always to anyone who replies.

[JoeJude]

Update for those who google this, my landscaper and some other peeps say short palm trees have small roots, like a basketball, we shall see how this goes.

[DougStark]

hey Joe, I can't think of a way to ensure you don't hit a pipe during shoveling unless you're the one who installed it. I've hit and damaged PVC pipe that way more than once

I'd avoid planting things that eventually develop big woody roots like trees, large bushes. I've had several cases where the roots literally grew, expanded in girth and pushed the piping, causing water leaks.

You can plant anything with fibrous (non-woody) roots like smaller palms, ornamental grasses like purple fountain grass, muhly grasses, agapanthus, cacti and many more. Nurseries (but generally not big box) will know what you need. Good luck.