Winter is here, which means you'll be dealing with snow removal on your property. Along with shovels and plows, rock salt is a major component of an effective removal plan to prevent snow and ice accumulation. Before you stop by a local garden center to pick up essential winter supplies, here are a few key points to keep in mind. 

How to Salt Your Property This Winter

1. Act Before Snow Falls

You don't need to wait until the snow starts to begin salting. In fact, it's best to lay down a layer of rock salt before it actually starts snowing, as doing so can actually prevent ice from freezing on the ground in the first place. Pay close attention to the weather reports during the winter season to anticipate pending snowstorms and act as soon as possible. 

2. Exercise Care Around Plants & Grass

As effective as rock salt is at melting ice and snow, it can damage your landscape design if it comes into contact with plants. For this reason, it's wise to apply salt to driveways and walkways carefully, making sure you're not distributing it onto the grass or any plants in the area. 

Spreading by hand is best, as the use of a broadcast spreader is likely to throw the salt onto your lawn, where it may cause harm. Use salt sparingly to soften the snow, and remove the rest using a plastic shovel. 

3. Have a Plan for Extreme Temperatures

Keep in mind that rock salt is only effective when the temperature is above 15 degrees F. If temperatures are extremely low where you live, you'll need to look for alternatives. Calcium chloride is a de-icer that remains effective at temperatures as low as 25 degrees below zero, so it's a wise investment at your local garden center. While kitty litter and sand don't actually melt ice and snow, they can be used to improve traction in a pinch if you don't have the appropriate de-icing chemical available.  

A reliable garden center serves the community in times of need by stocking supplies and equipment to keep properties in great shape all year long. That's why homeowners in Hamilton, OH, trust Wilson Garden Center Inc. Landscaping & Tree Service. The friendly staff is always happy to answer your questions, and their knowledge is backed by 43 years of local experience. When spring rolls around, they also offer landscaping services to keep your trees, flowers, and lawn looking their best. Visit the website to start shopping for essential products and call (513) 863-5831 to speak with a team member.