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KIRKSVILLE, MO -- Tons of de-icing salt are applied to roadways in the winter to ensure roads are safe for vehicles to travel.

But according to the Tree Care Industry Association, too much of it can cause widespread damage to trees.

The salt that's applied to the roadways migrates to tree roots and causes stunted growth and severe decline in tree health.

KTVO spoke with horticulture specialist Jennifer Schutter, she says pine tree are most prone to salt damage.

"Salt causes damage to trees and shrubs as well as lawns," Schutter said. "Usually the damage from that shows up in the spring. Typically April and May is when we'll see salt damage on plants. Evergreen trees are the most susceptible such as white pine, scotch pine and even some broad-leaf plants, rhododendron, and azalea could show the symptoms of salt damage in the spring."

Schutter tells KTVO evergreens and pine trees are more prone to feeling the effects of the salt because they retain their needles all year around.

She recommends homeowners to be aware, where you place salt on your driveways and walkways. It's important to protect your lawn and brush by directing where the salt goes.