How Does Salt Affect Grass?

Dehydration

• When soil becomes too overloaded with the elements that make up salt, namely potassium and chloride, it becomes difficult for enough water to get to the root system of some types of grasses. Two main sources exist that spread salt into your yard. One is your local city street department, which uses a commercial-grade salt mixture during winter to melt ice. This salt is easily splashed into yards by passing cars where it can eventually damage grass. Homeowners can also inadvertently introduce salt into their yards through the use of a de-icer to their sidewalks and driveways.

Chloride Toxicity

• Potassium and chloride are critical to a grass's survival, but when the levels rise too high, toxicity is the result. Potassium boosts a plant's hardiness, making it more resistant to extreme temperatures, pests and diseases. Chloride aids in the metabolism of nutrients. But like poisons, a high level of either of these results in a toxic condition. Stalks wither and die, overpowered by the amount of nutrient coursing through the root system.

Types

• The affect of salinity on grass varies greatly depending upon the type of grass. Some grow quite well in a high salinity environment. Bermuda is one example of a salt-tolerant grass, which explains why so many Florida lawns are replete with this species, even when in close proximity to the ocean. Kentucky Blue Grass is a breed that does not tolerate salt well, making it a poor choice for areas with long winters and heavy use of de-icing salt.

Considerations

• To keep your lawn from becoming brown and dead-looking from salt intrusion into the soil, choose a variety of grass that is able to withstand the local conditions. Consider how often ice and snow cover the ground, requiring the use of salt to keep roads clean. If you live near the ocean, keep in mind that tiny salt particles can blow inland farther than you might think, and take that reality into account when choosing what grass to plant.