How Rock Salt May Be Affecting Your Lawn

Spreading rock salt along icy roads may be good for our safety, but it’s not so great for the health and beauty of our lawns. If you’ve noticed buildup of white salt mixed in with your green turf, you may be wondering how your lawn is being affected.

Does rock salt kill grass? 

Rock salt can pose a threat to your existing lawn and future lawn growth. The elements of rock salt that allow it to break through ice can be deadly to your lawn.

How does rock salt kill grass?

 When the salt builds up in your lawn, it strips moisture from the lawn’s soil. This prevents your grass from getting the oxygen and water it needs to withstand winter weather. Because the salt absorbs water in the lawn’s roots, the grass is left dehydrated and in a drought-like state. Browning grass in the winter is an indication of rock salt damage.

What can I do about rock salt in my grass?

There are a few approaches you can take in both winter and the upcoming spring season to protect your lawn from rock salt damage.

• Fencing in: For the remainder of the winter season, install snow or silt fencing around your lawn to safeguard it from rock salt damage.
• Spring watering: Once the weather is warm enough, salt can be drained out by giving your lawn a deep, daily soaking.
• Seed to repair: To maintain the beautiful appearance of your lawn, plan to repair damaged areas with seeding in spring.

Contact your local arborist for more information.