In the past, borate salt formulations for fire retardant were found to be toxic to some animals and to retard growth of some plants, and, in many cases, sterilize the soil and inhibit germination of plants.
Modern fire retardants are formulated under strict rules regarding toxicity and irritation to animals and effects on soils and plants. Generally, current retardants can provide a fertilization effect, stimulating and enhancing plant growth, and are formulated and applied within government requirements for low toxicity properties.
