03/12/2024
Important information regarding Bradford pears and the problems they have.
Good evening, Stanley’s Facebook community! This spring we have been receiving many calls asking us if we sell Bradford pear trees. Not only do we not sell these trees, we do not recommend planting them. Why? Bradford pears:
~ Are invasive tending to aggressively propagate with other flowering pear trees as birds ingest their berries and spread their seeds indiscriminately. The resulting trees crowd out desirable trees and shrubs and produce thorns that are so sharp they have been known to puncture tires.
~ Are unstable trees with shallow roots and weak branches that tend to split and fall during or after adverse weather conditions (as seen in the photo below that was taken in Nashville by the Nashville Tree Conservation Corps) causing a hazard to people, property, pets, and vehicles.
~ Have berries that emit an unpleasant rotting odor that attracts flies.
~ Have a short lifespan of 10 to 25 years.
~ Have been banned in South Carolina starting October 1, 2024, and a county in Kentucky has offered a free tree to anyone who cuts down a Bradford pear in their yard.
Considering the drawbacks of this tree, it is much preferable to select an alternative flowering shade tree such as the Eastern redbud, flowering dogwood, serviceberry, or American plum for your garden or landscape. Our trees and shrubs team will be happy to help you find the best tree for your particular growing situation.
