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FAQ #36505

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Several years in a row, I have planted small evergreen trees (3 feet tall) within 5 feet of the street. Each summer I replace them because they die. Is it possible they don't thrive because of salt damage from the deicing products used on the adjacent road? I live in Minnesota.

Related resource areas: Gardens, Lawns & Landscapes

Yes, it's possible that salt spray and/or salt that has accumulated in the soil is damaging the trees. You can determine soil salinity by submitting a soil sample to the University of Minnesota Soil Testing Laboratory. Steps can be taken to reduce salt concentrations if the level is too high for optimum plant growth. However, if fresh salt deposits at the site cannot be prevented, avoid planting there or choose salt-tolerant species.

Here are links to information about salt-tolerant species, as well as ways to reduce soil salinity and otherwise improve growing conditions at the site:

Minimizing Deicing Salt Injury to Trees
Deicing Salts: Damage to Woody Ornamentals
Soluble Salts Test

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