Leaves and needles that clog local gutters
Trees common across this region drop various types of debris into rain channels throughout the seasons, though the exact mix changes across Delaware. Pines like loblolly pine, longleaf pine, and slash pine shed thin needles all year long, which form tight mats inside the gutter. Broadleaf varieties, including broadleaf live oak, water oak, sweetgum, red maple, and southern magnolia, add heavy debris. Spring brings a thick coating of yellow pollen that combines with moisture to form a dense paste. Sweetgum trees drop hard sweetgum balls, while live oaks shed leaves and acorns into the channel. Heavy leaf drop usually peaks in mid October, filling roof systems just before winter snows arrive.