Question
I put in a new sidewalk last year. What kind of salt can I use to melt ice that won't have negative consequences on my lawn?  I live in Rhode Island, zip code 02903.  Thank you.

Answer
The most common product used for melting ice is unrefined Rock Salt.  It's about 98 percent Sodium Chloride -- and it's murder on plants and cured concrete alike.  Plants absorb Sodium and Chloride ions very quickly, and it does a LOT of damage.  Plus it's highly corrosive.

Calcium Chloride is a slightly better alternative.  But it's still not good for anything growing nearby.  An effective alternative you might consider: Mix Sawdust and Calcium Chloride.  A 3:1 ratio of Sawdust to Calcium Chloride will at least keep the rain from washing it away and off your sidewalk.  Plus the Sawdust makes it a lot less slippery.

Fertilizer is my preferred ice melter.  Look for a bag with Muriate of Potash -- KC1 -- or Urea.  The latter will melt ice down very efficiently when the temps are 25 to 30 degrees F.  You can mix it with Sand, Sawdust or Cat Litter for better traction.

Watch in the Spring for signs of damage.  If you see any, use less next year.  All of the 'preferred' methods must be used sparingly.  Too much of a good thing is still too much.  Thanks for writing.