Keeping our paths safe for our friends, family and the public is a top priority in the winter months. At points it can be a challenge keeping these areas clear and we often turn to chemical treatments (deicers) for help. The overuse of deicers can increase concrete deterioration, stunt or kill plants, damage surrounding soil, corrode metals and increase pollution in our drinking water and the local watershed.
There are several types of deicers available. Calcium Chloride, Sodium Chloride (Common Salt), Potassium Chloride, Urea, and Calcium Magnesium Acetate (More Info) are typical deicers found in stores. The chart below compares these chemicals.
Chart courtesy of University of Minnesota Extension Service
To minimize the effects of deicers manually remove as much snow and ice as possible before applying product. Adding an abrasive such as kitty litter, sand, sawdust or cracked corn to icy spots adds traction and decreases the amount of deicer needed. Make sure to clean up an spills and excess product to prevent damage to your property and the environment. For more information on the effects deicers may have on your landscape and the environment use the links below.
Deicing Links:
Winter Salt Damage to Plants by Ron Wimanovich http://york.extension.psu.edu/Horticulture/Reading Gardener/salt simanovich.html
Winter Deicing Agents for the Homeowner By Jay B. Fitzgerald http://www.ianrpubs.unl.edu/epublic/live/g1121/build/g1121.pdf/
Deicing, Strategies for Safeguarding Both Guest and the Environment by Doug Kievit-Kyar http://www.vtgreenhotels.org/articles/deice.htm
We seldom get ice in Birmingham, but the few times we have I was able to use plain 10-10-10 fertilizer to melt the ice. It is much less damaging to the environment than salt and I usually have plenty on hand!