This is because there is less time for winter snow and precipitation to leach salt from the root zone before growth resumes in the spring. The depth and duration of soil freezing is also important. Dormant trees continue to absorb water and nutrients in unfrozen soils. Salted water can percolate through frozen soils, reaching active plant roots in unfrozen soil horizons. The best solution to the de-icing salt problem is to prevent contamination.
Homeowners can use abrasives instead of salt when treating driveways and walkways.
If vegetation is located in areas where salt spray occurs, barriers or screens can be erected to protect plants during the winter months. Anti desiccants may also help prevent injury when applied to evergreen foliage along the coast or where de-icing salt will be used. County, state, and municipal officials can help prevent salt injury by carefully training equipment operators and frequently calibrating equipment. Once soil becomes contaminated with salt, damage can be reduced by leaching the salt with fresh water as soon as possible after exposure. Furthermore, foliage exposed to salt spray may be washed with salt-free water to remove deposited salt.