Raked leaves piled against tree trunks this fall can keep bark wet all winter and invite decay at the base. It is one of the most common fall mistakes in North Atlanta yards.
Bark at the base of a tree needs to dry out between rains. Deep, wet piles of leaves or mulch packed against the trunk hold moisture for months, which can lead to rot and gives rodents and insects shelter where the trunk meets the roots.
Shredded leaves spread in a thin layer across the root zone are beneficial, as long as they stay a few inches off the trunk and the root flare remains visible. Soft, cracked, or peeling bark at the base is a sign the tree should be checked by a certified arborist.
ATL Tree Work is family-owned, licensed and insured, and helps homeowners in Duluth, Norcross, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Snellville, and across North Metro Atlanta keep their trees healthy through the off-season.
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Authentic photo from a North Atlanta yard showing a tree base with the root flare cleared and a thin layer of shredded leaves spread across the root zone. A side-by-side with a deep leaf pile against a trunk would make the point clearly. Real job photos strongly preferred over stock.
Canva text suggestion: "Keep Leaves Off the Trunk This Winter" or "Clear the Root Flare, Spread the Leaves Thin"