Salt is toxic to plants.  When dissolved in water the sodium and chloride ions separate. The sodium ions replace needed nutrients in the soil (potassium, magnesium and calcium) making them unavailable to your plants and shrubs.  The chloride ions are transported from roots to leaves, building up in the leaves and interfering with photosynthesis. Rock salt absorbs the water that would normally be used by roots, dehydrating the roots and stressing the plants. Salt also reduces the cold hardiness of plants, making them more susceptible to frost damage.

Here are a few tips to keep your plants safe and your sidewalks and driveways clear:

• Don’t oversalt!  Follow label directions precisely.
• Avoid using rock salt in extreme cold.  Salt is most effective at temperatures just below the freezing point.
• De-icing agents with calcium-chloride, or calcium magnesium acetate, are salt-free and should be used in extreme cold.
• Also, in extreme cold, sprinkle water lightly over surfaces before you apply the ice melt for better results.
• Erect barriers with plastic fencing, burlap or snow fencing to protect sensitive plants.
• For plants that do get sprayed by salt (road splashing, etc.), use a broom and lightly brush salt off of the plants.  You may not see the damage to plants and trees by salt or ice melt until spring.
• Shovel ice and snow as soon as possible, and try to keep sidewalks and paths clear to avoid re-applying products.
• For areas that do get runoff with ice melt products, to help minimize damage try to flush the areas with water on days when temps are above 40° Fahrenheit.