How to Trim a Bradford Pear Tree the Right Way
The Bradford pear tree might look lovely in bloom, but anyone who’s owned one knows it can be a maintenance nightmare. These trees grow fast, get heavy quickly, and are infamous for splitting in storms. Trimming them properly is not just for looks—it’s a must-do for safety and longevity. Here’s how to tackle the job the right way. What Makes Bradford Pears So Tricky to Trim Fast growth and weak branch structure Bradford pears grow in a tight, upright pattern, which causes limbs to rub against each other and weaken over time. Their wood is also brittle, making them prone to breakage. Overcrowded limbs and poor shape Without regular pruning, they form dense, tangled canopies. This blocks airflow and sunlight, making the tree more vulnerable to pests, disease, and storm damage. When Is the Best Time to Trim a Bradford Pear? Ideal seasons The best time to trim is late winter or early spring—before new growth starts. At this stage, the tree is dormant and wounds from prunin...