Storm-Related Salt Injury

A Technical Report from The Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories

Salt water spray can cause severe damage to many species of turf grass, ornamental shrubs, and trees. Damage results when salt (sodium chloride) in sea water is either sprayed onto plant foliage or penetrates into the soil where roots develop. Salt water spray can travel long distances during hurricanes, Northeasters or other storms. However, most damage is seen on plants within 100 yards of the ocean or bay.