How can we minimize plant damage from “de-icers”?
BOB: Gypsum [calcium sulfate] applied to soil surfaces bordering walks, driveways, and streets at a rate of 50 lbs. per 1,000 square feet (in Pennsylvania) will help minimize damage from Sodium Chloride. TIP: Gypsum is best applied in the fall, but spring applications will also help. The use of Calcium Chloride as a de-icer is a ‘wee bit’ more “plant friendly”, but too much can also harm plants. (Keep in mind that Gypsum will not counteract the “salt effect” of Calcium Chloride) REMEMBER: Any de-icer that increases the number of “freeze-thaw” cycles can damage concrete. And that includes most of them. THE SAFEST: Messy, but. . . Sand (or small gravel) is good for traction on ice. TIP: Protect your stockpile from freezing.
