I was considering writing a post about making your own
garland from pine trees or those left overs you sometimes find a tree lot’s but
with 8 inches of snow and another possible 4 tomorrow I wanted to touch on the
subject of snow removal, specifically the use of rock salt and it’s effect on
your garden and the environment.
Rock Salt is a natural occurring mineral that is mass "harvested" to prevent ice from forming. It does not “melt” ice. Instead, it
actually has a lower freezing point then water and makes it almost impossible
for ice to form. This substance is used is high frequency here in PA. Instead
of traditional rock salt pelts, Penn dot now brine road to reduce salt use.
For personal use, I have mixed emotions. The reality is that
rock salt is cheap, effective and for the most part natural. However, as you
here references to in the Bible, salt can wreak havoc on your yard, killing
plant and making your soil alkaline, preventing future growth. Here at RNP, we
selectively use rock salt; using it in the areas of the park that are far away
from the greenery.
There are alternatives to rock salt such as “ice melters”
that claim to protect your plants. The same product exists that claims to pet
friendly. I would be VERY careful with these liquids. They are not organic and
the impact on the environment has not been fully evaluated.
Many people use sand, dirt and even kitty litter. Sand and
dirt are great choices as long as they have no chemical additives. Many sandbox
sands actually have been treated with bleach and other chemicals to preserve
their light color. Kitty litter can be used as well, again if it’s all natural.
If we are into a long term winter icing a la 1996. I may
consider constructing a “board walk” nailing logs into the ice. I hope never to
have to do that again.
I’m off to do another walk though of the park, prior to the
next 4 inches of snow to be sure the plants that need coverings are still doing
okay following this morning’s assault.
Betsy
No comments:
Post a Comment