Bradford Pears: Drop Them or Top Them?

If you’ve got a Bradford pear in your yard, you might be asking yourself, “What should I do with this tree?” These popular but problematic trees are a hot topic for homeowners and arborists alike. Let’s dig into why Bradford pears are causing such a stir, what makes them a challenge, and how Tactical Treescapes can help you make the right call.

The Problem with Bradford Pears

The Bradford pear, a cultivar of the Callery pear, was once hailed as the perfect ornamental tree. It grows quickly, blooms beautifully in the spring, and is widely adaptable. However, as the saying goes, “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”

Here’s why Bradford pears are not the sweet deal they seem:

• They’re Invasive: Bradford pears are not native to the U.S. and have become a significant ecological issue. Their seeds are spread by birds, leading to the proliferation of wild Callery pears that outcompete native plants. This disrupts ecosystems and reduces biodiversity.

• Bad for Birds: While the trees may seem bird-friendly, their small, nutrient-poor fruit isn’t ideal for wildlife. Native trees like oaks or dogwoods provide much better food and shelter.

• Prone to Failure: Bradford pears are infamous for their weak branch unions. The dense, upright growth habit causes branches to split, especially during storms. Most Bradford pears start to show significant structural issues or outright fail within 20 years, often causing damage to nearby property.

• Difficult to Manage: Preventative pruning can extend the life of a Bradford pear, but it’s no small feat. Properly thinning the canopy to reduce branch stress requires a skilled arborist. Even then, there’s no guarantee the tree won’t fail in the future.

• Illegal to Sell: South Carolina recognizes the problems Bradford pears pose. As of 2024, it is illegal to sell them in the state, a step toward preventing further ecological damage.

  

  Tactical Treescapes sets up to remove a large Bradford Pear in Rock Hill, SC

What Should You Do?

When it comes to Bradford pears, you have two practical options: top them or drop them.

1. Top Them (Not Really): Many homeowners think “topping”—the drastic removal of a tree’s upper canopy—is a quick fix, but that's not the case. Topping promotes weak, epicormic growth which in turn makes trees more susceptible to decay and future failure. For Bradford pears, topping is never a long-term solution.

2. Drop Them: The most effective option is to remove the tree entirely. While it might feel drastic, replacing a Bradford pear with a native species is the best way to protect your property and support local ecosystems. Trees like redbuds, dogwoods, or serviceberries offer similar beauty without the baggage.

   
   

Our Recommendation

At Tactical Treescapes, we strongly recommend removing Bradford pears and replacing them with healthier, native species. It’s the most sustainable and cost-effective choice in the long run. By choosing a native tree, you’ll enhance your property’s beauty, increase biodiversity, and reduce maintenance headaches.

Need Help with Your Bradford Pear?

Whether you’re ready to drop it or just need advice, Tactical Treescapes has you covered. Our team of certified arborists understands the challenges of managing Bradford pears and can guide you through the best course of action for your property. Contact us today for a consultation and let’s make your landscape healthier, safer, and more beautiful.