A GARDENING expert is urging homeowners to use an everyday cupboard item to prevent slippery drives and pathways this winter.
No one fancies skidding on ice first thing in the morning but luckily gardening guru Mark Lane, of BBC Morning Live, has a simple trick to prevent ice buildup that costs just pennies and takes mere minutes to do.
Stannah’s gardening expert, Mark, reveals that brine works better than traditional salt or grit to prevent ice buildup.
Using brine means a faster return to normality on the paths, reduced salt particles in the air and a lower risk of damage to the landscape.
As a prevention method, using leftover brine – from tinned or jarred foods – on immediate walkways outside the home eliminates the need to take precautions after a frosty night.
Mark Lane explains:“Salt brine is the answer!
“You may have a jar of brine after eating the contents, such as vegetables, meat or fish. Don’t throw the brine away.
“Of course, you can always make brine by mixing 6kg of salt (sodium chloride) with 19 litres of water (reducing the amount depending on the size of the area that needs to be covered).
“Apply the brine using a painter’s brush just before a winter storm or when ice is forecast.
“It helps prevent ice from bonding to pathways, driveways, steps and ramps.
“Brine has a lower freezing point than pure water, so it starts to work as soon as the first snowflake falls, delaying the accumulation of snow and ice.”
However, Mark says that avid gardeners should be wary when using brine.
He adds: “Please remember, however, that salt and brine should not be exposed to plants, soil or concrete surfaces.”
The hack is just one thing that can be done to winterproof the garden alongside rehoming flowers into a greenhouse, and using horticultural fleece – or even old jumpers – to protect pots and plants.
Gardening experts over at Toolstation have revealed the garden laws you need to be aware of not breaking.
While some of these laws could land you with a fine of up to £20,000 in extreme cases, a friendly chat with your neighbours can usually resolve any issues.
Tree removal and pruning: If you have a tree in your garden you want to get rid of you better think twice and do your research.
The gardening experts reveal: “If one neighbour wishes to remove or heavily prune a tree that the other neighbour values, disputes can arise over the impact on the view, shade, or privacy. “
While it might cause a row, if it is in your property boundary it is ultimately your choice, unless it has a Tree Protection Order on it.
“But, some trees may be protected by a Tree Protection Order which makes it an offence to uproot, top or destroy them, the experts warn.
The maximum fine for breaking this law is £20,000, so make sure you double check if it does have a TPO.
You can find out by contacting your local council for a map that shows this information. Alternatively, you can ask to speak with your local tree officer.
Property boundaries and fences: One of the main causes of neighbours falling out is through arguing over property boundaries and fencing.
To avoid this situation, the gardening pros recommend checking the deeds of your property to determine the correct boundaries
“Most of the time, it’s easy to determine who owns the fence as the fence posts will usually be on the owners side,” they add.
“Additionally, the height of fences or hedges can cause disputes between neighbours if one party feels the height has exceeded the two metre guidance.
“Hedges and fences should be no more than two metres high, and you could be asked by the council to take them down if a neighbour complains about the height.
“Luckily, standard fence sizes are less than two metres tall so you shouldn’t have a problem.”
Garden structures and additions: A pergola is the perfect addition to a garden if you want somewhere to relax in the shade.
But if it obstructs your neighbour’s view or violates local building regulations it could cause a dispute, as can sheds and other garden structures.
“If you’re not sure, have a chat with your neighbours to let them know what you’re planning and, if there’s an issue, get in touch with your local council who can give you more guidance,” advise the gardening experts.
Overhanging branches and plants: “When branches, vines, or roots from one neighbour’s tree or plant extend into the neighbouring property, it can lead to disagreements over potential damage to structures, blocked views, or the burden of maintenance,” reveal the pros.
However, it’s important to note you can only trim overhanging branches up to the boundary of your property otherwise, it could be seen as trespassing.
You can climb into the tree to carry out the work if needed, but only on your property and make sure to stay on your side of the fence if you don’t have permission to enter your neighbours garden.
