Protect Yourself from Dirty Trees
"Dirty trees" is the derogatory term given to trees that shed more than leaves. Their bark, fruit, and seeds constantly litter the ground and often clog up the gutters on your home. However "dirty" these trees may be, they offer more beauty than debris, so do not cut them down. Consider other ways to minimize the problems they cause.
Which Trees Are Dirty?
Maples
Maple trees are a hardy breed and come in many different varieties. They are beautiful additions to any yard, but their seeds or samaras are "winged," meaning they can fly a far distance. Often called helicopters, these seeds can travel to your yard and gutters from several houses away. They can and will sprout, creating mini-trees in your yard. Mowing and weeding will take care of those intruders, but your gutters will look like a miniature forest if you are not vigilant.
Buckeyes
Ohio is the buckeye state, and although the trees are visually delightful, they are responsible for mounds of debris. They profusely shed buckeye flowers, but the bigger problem is the immature buckeye fruit. These prickly little balls discourage going barefoot in the spring and summer, and they too can end up in your gutters, clogging the flow and causing water to run over the gutter's edge.
Sycamores, elms, and cottonwoods are other beautiful yet troublesome trees that beautify the landscape and trash it simultaneously. Of course, they are worth the trouble they cause, but if you have them in your yard or nearby, you will pay a price for the privilege.
Gutter Guards
Raking, bagging, and mowing will take care of the seed and fruits in your yard, but you can save yourself a huge clean-up task by installing gutter covers. Having these items installed is affordable, and they save you from the constant gutter cleanouts needed when dirty trees drop their offerings onto the roof of your home. If you are not physically able to climb a ladder to the roof several times a year, having these covers spares you from hiring someone to do the job. They are not foolproof, but they can keep most of the gunk out of the gutters and allow the water to drain off of your roof, preventing damage to your shingles, siding, and foundation.
Extra yard cleanup and installing gutter guards are a small price to pay to keep beautiful "dirty" trees in your area. They may drop things all over the landscape, but they are also lovely members of the community. Talk to a gutter guard professional like Conifer Gutter Service for more information.