Salt cedar is an invasive weed found in Nebraska's wetland habitats. The largest infestations are found along the Platte River basin and at several reservoirs in the southwestern part of the state. The name salt cedar is derived from the salty sap that is released from the leaves and twigs.
Introduced from Eurasia, salt cedar is a perennial deciduous, or evergreen, shrub that can thrive in all soil types. Salt cedar stands up to 30 feet tall and grows individually or in sparse groups.
Salt cedar has an extensive root system. The primary taproot grows at least 15 feet deep, or as deep as 150 feet, when in search of moisture. Once the water table is reached, secondary root branching becomes profuse.
In Nebraska, salt cedar produces small pink flowers from June to August. The flowers produce numerous small, tufted seeds that can be carried long distances by wind and water. The seeds must come in contact with suitable moisture within a few weeks of dispersal.
Sold as an ornamental plant species, salt cedar has became naturalized along streams, canals and reservoirs in much of the western United States. Salt cedar is a concern to many private and government managed lands due to its negative effects on water use, wildlife habitat and land value in general.
Salt cedar damages land through several means. The high evapo-transpiration rate of salt cedar can lower the water table in near-by streams and canals. For example, large trees lower the water table by consuming up to 200 gallons of water per day. Salt excreted from the leaves to the soil surface can inhibit the germination and growth of surrounding plants. The salty substance also can damage the plumage of birds.
Due to the encroachment of salt cedar, many wildlife species are forced to move to more diverse plant communities. Many animals are negatively affected by their habitat changes and the displacement of native plant species.
Herbicides are recommended for salt cedar control. Apply herbicides toward the later part of the season in August or September. Treat only salt cedar foliage using various spraying equipment including aerial application. Generally, plants under 6 feet tall are easier to spray than taller trees. Do not apply herbicides to the soil around the tree as it is not effective. Do not use herbicides near domestic water sources, desirable trees, homesteads or in irrigation ditches. Contact your local UNL Extension office for herbicide recommendations.
SOURCE: Stevan Knezevic, UNL Weed Management Specialist. Sarah Browning is a Horticulture Extension Educator with University of Nebraska- Lincoln Extension in Dodge and Saunders Counties. She can be contacted by phone at 727-2775: by mail at 1206 W. 23rd Street, Fremont, NE 68025: or by e-mail at sbrowning2@unl.edu
