Leaves and needles that clog local gutters
Trees common to this region produce distinct debris that enters gutters at different times. Broadleaf live oak trees drop leaves in early spring rather than late fall, coating roof valleys unexpectedly. Post oak, cedar elm, and crape myrtle drop leaves, small twigs, and oak catkins that clump into thick mats. Pecan trees drop leaf stems along with hard pecan shells that block downspout openings. Conifers like loblolly pine drop needles, while ashe juniper sheds fine pollen in winter that coats accumulated roof grit. The mix of trees differs across the state, but each species deposits fine organic matter that packs tight inside gutters when mixed with rainwater.