Have you seen the homes with small trees and ferns growing in gutters? This happens when gutters are not cleaned regularly. In these cases organic material builds up thus creating a medium for plant growth Gutters need to be cleaned twice a year to ensure that rain water is diverted away from your house. Ignoring those gutters can result in more costly damage that including rotted fascia boards, water damage to the sides of your home, and foundation problems. In addition, make sure that trees and tall shrubs are not touching or arching over your house. This will allow for less to clean up, and in damper climates, can cut down on moss on the roof, too.