While rock salt is something we greatly appreciate being on the ground when driving in wintery conditions, it is not something our lawn appreciates when the snow and ice melts. As the snow melts, the water causes this salt to run onto our lawns. Sodium, or salt, saturated into the ground can actually prevent grass from growing for several years. Keep reading to learn some steps you can take to keep your lawn looking lush after winter months.
Limit salt usage
Try to only use salt on your driveway or pathways when absolutely necessary. Unlike the strategy road crews use, don’t sprinkle your salt until it is actually snowing.
Additionally, check the amount you should be using on the bag before you start spreading. Not only will this save you money, because you’re probably using too much currently, but it will also help avoid oversaturating your lawn and soil with rock salt.
Shovel ASAP
Shoveling goes right along with using less salt. You can actually reduce the amount of salt you need if you shovel early before the snow has a chance to freeze to your driveway or paths.
As you shovel, be sure to distribute the snow you are picking up evenly instead of just piling it in one spot. This will also help keep salt from concentrating on one spot in your lawn, and also helps keep one portion of your lawn from being damaged due to prolonged snow exposure.
If you need some additional motivation to help you get out there and shovel beside the health of your lawn, consider the fact that shoveling snow is also an excellent workout.
Don’t use salt at all
This may sound a bit controversial, but there are actually deicing agents that are safe for landscaping usage. You can check with local garden centers for recommendations.
If you are less worried about removing the snow, and just concerned about getting traction (perhaps in your driveway), sand or kitty litter are also good options that are much more friendly for your lawn.
Use a physical barrier
Depending on how late in the winter season it is, it may be too late for this option. However, there are plastic lawn covers and burlap lawn covers, as well as snow fencing, that can help minimize the amount of salt exposure your lawn receives.
The rock salt we use to clear the roads can actually be very damaging to your lawn, but you can minimize that by limiting the amount of salt you use, changing the type of chemical you use, or using a physical barrier to protect your lawn. If you are concerned about protecting your lawn, or you are seeing signs of salt damage and want to know what can be done, Luna Landscaping can assist. Contact Luna Landscaping today!