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Plants in a salt environement/sidewalk #866029

Asked April 26, 2024, 4:30 PM EDT

I have plants around the building at my office in a rock garden between the building and the sidewalk. The Sidewalk salt seems to have killed the current plants. I am looking for a suitable shrub. Bachmans referred me to you for more information. I am looking at the Baby Kim Lilac. I was told this is a salt tolerant shrub. My concern is if this is true. Is there anything I should add to the soil when planting and or is there something to help these plants succeed? The area gets over spray from the salt spreader, but also often has snow shoveled into the area or with a snow blower. I've attached photos of the areas and current plants. I am open to recommendations, but really want something below 42". We also have spireahs mixed into the garden.

Anoka County Minnesota

Expert Response

Good Morning Rick, 

Thank you for contacting the U of M Extension Service. 

Please click on the following link from the U of M Extension Yard and Garden website about salt: https://extension.umn.edu/lawns-and-landscapes/effects-deicing-salts-landscapes

If you scroll through the information, there is a link to a list of salt-tolerant plants: 

https://stormwater.pca.state.mn.us/index.php?title=Minnesota_plant_lists#Salt_tolerance

I found a link to the Baby Kim: https://www.provenwinners.com/plants/syringa/baby-kim-lilac-syringa-x This information indicates that it needs alkaline soil. 

You might consider ornamental grasses: https://extension.umn.edu/landscape-design/ornamental-grasses-shady-sites   that could be replaced easily. 

Good Luck!

Maureen Graber Replied April 27, 2024, 8:51 AM EDT

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