When winter arrives, icy surfaces pose a major hazard for homes and businesses alike. For property owners, maintaining safety without harming the landscape can be a challenge. Our landscaping professionals are here to offer eco-friendly de-icing solutions that keep you, your family, and visitors safe while preserving the beauty and health of your outdoor spaces.
Understanding the Environmental Impact of De-Icing
Most traditional de-icing products contain chemicals that can harm grass, plants, and soil for years and even impact nearby waterways. As de-icing agents melt ice, they seep into the ground, potentially altering soil composition and damaging root systems. Sodium chloride (rock salt), for example, is one of the most common de-icers, but it is harsh on plant life and can lead to erosion over time.
Our landscaping professionals recommend alternatives that balance safety and environmental responsibility, especially in the Pacific Northwest’s damp climate. Choosing the right products and strategies can significantly improve safety and sustainability.
Eco-Friendly De-Icing Products to Consider
Instead of rock salt, we suggest more landscape-friendly de-icing options such as calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) and potassium chloride. CMA, in particular, is biodegradable, works well in lower temperatures, and is less harmful to plants and aquatic life. Potassium chloride is also less corrosive than traditional salt and reduces soil damage.
Property owners in the Pacific Northwest must also consider the region’s unique weather patterns. Since precipitation levels are high, products designed for damp, icy conditions will perform more effectively. Our landscaping team can help determine the most suitable products for your property and ensure they’re applied correctly to minimize runoff and other environmental risks.
Safe Practices for Winter Landscaping
Beyond product selection, it is essential to apply de-icing agents carefully. Overuse can damage plants and increase runoff, carrying chemicals into nearby water sources. Our landscaping professionals recommend targeted application methods, placing de-icing agents only where absolutely necessary, such as walkways and high-traffic areas. Additionally, combining de-icers with sand or gravel improves traction, reducing the need for excessive chemicals.
Maintaining a safe, accessible landscape doesn’t mean sacrificing environmental integrity. With guidance from our landscaping professionals in Mukilteo, you can achieve effective, eco-friendly de-icing that keeps your property both beautiful and safe. For all your de-icing and winter landscaping needs, call Cooper’s Landscape at (425) 276-6055.
