De-icing Salt Damage to Trees and Shrubs and its Amelioration

London

1991

6 Abb., 2 Tab., 26 Lit. Ang.

Unselbständiges Werk

4035

200055253

De-icing salt in run-off and spray can significantly alter the health of roadside trees and shrubs. Symptoms of damage range from depression of growth, leaf scorch and defoliation to limb dieback and ultimately death. To minimise damage to roadside vegetation, tolerant species should be planted in areas of high risk. Further measures for reducing damage from salt include reducing salt applications, using alternative de-icers (e.g. calcium- magnesium acetate), leaching of contaminated soil, and the use of soil ameliorants such as gypsum (calcium sulphate) and low-nitrogen fertilisers.