We are now getting to the point in winter when an icy blast can afflict us at any time.
Last year (2008) many parts of the United Kingdom had heavy snow falls as early as mid November.
Safety is paramount and it pays to be prepared but, if you are a keen gardener, heed this simple word of warning. Salt is extremely damaging to any green living material.
When salt comes into contact with a plants leaves it causes the fluid in the plants' leaf tissue (mainly water) to be drawn out - it is a process called exosmosis. As this happens the plant tissue is destroyed.
Similarly, when salt is allowed to contaminate soil the plant roots will absorb the salt and circulate it around the plants system. As it does so the plant will start to dehydrate from the inside, severely weakening it or, potentially, leading to its death.
If you use rock salt on your garden paths, patio or driveway be careful not to overdo it. Snow and ice never usually lasts long periods in the UK so only use as much as is essential.
Salt can build-up in the soil around shrubs and flower beds that border pathways, under hedges or adjacent to lawns.
Why not plan in advance and buy in a few bags of builders sharp sand or grit (make sure it comes from an in-land source). If you have a large area then consider buying in a loose load and storing in a couple of plastic dustbins.
Keep the sharp sand insulated as the water content can also freeze meaning that at the time you will most need it it cannot be spread as it will be lumped together.
For large areas use a shovel to spread the grit and for smaller more confined spaces utilise an old plastic bottle with a handle - just cut the end off to make a scoop.
Start gritting close to the storage area so you have somewhere safe to walk on as you go.
Make sure you do your own risk assessment and don't rely on this advice in isolation - I cannot be responsible for broken arms or legs.
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