Ah, the Bradford Pear. Once hailed as the perfect ornamental tree, this “elegant” “adaptable” specimen has now earned the dubious distinction of being an invasive scourge. Also known as the Callery Pear; the Kansas Forest Service states that these trees have taken over multiple areas of Kansas. Discover why sterilizing or removing Bradford Pear trees is the best way to help win the war against this stinky foe.

The Smelly Situation on Bradford Pear Trees

Let’s be honest, the Bradford Pear isn’t exactly known for its fragrant blossoms. In fact, many describe the smell as… well, let’s just say it wouldn’t win any awards for “Most Pleasant Aroma.” Think overripe pears met a dumpster fire on a hot summer day. Charming, right?

Weak Wood and Disease

Beyond the olfactory offense, these trees are notoriously brittle. A stiff breeze can send branches crashing down, posing a serious threat to property and, more importantly, your peace of mind. According to a news article by KSN, Bradford Pears are the most common tree species that tree and landscaping companies are called upon to trim or remove, especially after strong winds, snow, or even rain. And if the weak wood wasn’t enough, they’re also susceptible to diseases like fire blight and rust, making them a constant source of worry for homeowners.

Bradford Pear Trees present a host of problems including weak wood and are susceptible to diseases like fire blight and rust

Thirsty Trees

Bradford Pears are notorious water guzzlers. In drought conditions, they can quickly become stressed, leading to further weakness and increasing their susceptibility to pests and diseases. This constant need for hydration can also put a strain on your water bill, and let’s be honest, no one wants to see their water bill blossom like a… well, you get the idea.

Invasive and Unstoppable

Originally touted as sterile, within the last three years, the Bradford Pear has proven to be a cunning trickster. Through cross-pollination with other pear tree hybrids, it’s now producing viable seeds, creating a veritable army of unwanted offspring. These seedlings pop up everywhere, crowding out native plants and wreaking havoc on local ecosystems.

Bradford Pear Trees are now considered to be an invasive species and will be quarantined starting 2027

The Kansas Ban on Bradford Pears

Recognizing the impending doom, Kansas has taken decisive action. According to an article by KWCH, the state announced in early 2024 a quarantine on Bradford Pears that prohibits people from moving the trees around or into Kansas that will go into effect in 2027. This gives homeowners time to assess their landscaping choices and replace these problematic trees with more suitable alternatives.

Identifying the Enemy

Bradford Pear trees are noticeable by their white, smelly blossoms, pear shaped leaves, light and dark bark and thorny branches

So how do you know if you’re facing a Bradford Pear?

  • White Flowers: In spring, they boast a profusion of white flowers, though their beauty is fleeting and quickly overshadowed by their pungent aroma.
  • Sulfur to Sour Smell: Only noticeable in full bloom, the smell can vary from tree to tree, but is unique to this tree species nonetheless.
  • Pear-Shaped Leaves: The leaves are simple and oval-shaped, resembling small pears.
  • Thorny Branches: Young trees often have thorny branches, adding to their overall charm (not).

If you just realized you’re the not-so-proud owner of a Bradford Pear tree, don’t fret! According to an article by The Wichita Eagle, the callery pear quarantine won’t affect trees that you have on your property. While it is recommended to take action against these trees to protect your property more than anything, it is completely up to you. The Kansas Department of Agriculture will be allowed to inspect non-resident properties for enforcement purposes. If you choose to fight the Bradford Pear menace, you’ve got a few options.

Two Options to Fight Bradford Pear Trees

The “Peaceful” Approach: Sterilizing Bradford Pear Trees

  • How it Works: Specific herbicides or chemicals can be injected directly into the trunk of the tree, or according to the Missouri Department of Conservation, basal bark treatments can be sprayed around the Callery pear tree base. Both methods prevent fruiting thereby “sterilizing” the tree.
  • The Downside: This method requires specialized equipment and expertise, and its effectiveness can vary depending on the tree’s size, age, and overall health. It also needs to be performed during specific times of the year and even specific times of the tree’s growth cycle to be effective.
  • Greenbelt Lawns Can Help: Our experienced team can assess your Bradford pear trees and determine if sterilization is a viable option. We have the expertise and equipment to safely and effectively inject your trees, ensuring long-term sterility.

The best solution to Bradford Pear trees is to remove them altogether

The “Nuclear” Option: Removing Bradford Pear Trees

  • How it Works: Sometimes, the most effective solution is simply to remove the tree. Our team can safely and efficiently remove your Bradford Pear, ensuring proper stump grinding and removal of all debris. We’ll also apply the necessary herbicide to prevent the tree from re-sprouting later.
  • Greenbelt Lawns Can Help: Unless you’re a professional tree trimmer, we don’t recommend that you try to remove the tree yourself. Thankfully, you can hit the easy button and hire us to take care of this menace for you! We’ll handle the entire removal process from start to finish, leaving you with a clean slate and the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’ve taken a stand against this invasive menace. Not to mention protected your property from potential damage that comes from falling limbs and weak wood.
  • Bonus Points: To replace your Bradford Pear, we can recommend suitable native Kansas trees that will thrive in your landscape. We even offer professional planting services to ensure your new trees get the best start. Planting a new tree near the location of the removed Bradford Pear helps restore the local ecosystem and ensures the continued beauty and health of your property.

Don’t Let the Bradford Pear Ruin Your Day (or Your Nose)

The Bradford Pear may have once been a popular choice, but its days of dominance are numbered. By choosing to remove or sterilize these trees, you’re not only protecting your property but also contributing to a healthier environment for future generations.

Contact Greenbelt Lawns today for a free consultation. Request a free estimate to sterilize or remove Bradford Pear Trees today by filling out the quote request form or texting us at (316) 807.2112. Let us help you bid farewell to the Bradford Pear and embrace a more beautiful, fragrant, and less problematic future for your landscape.

Disclaimer: While approached humorously in this blog post, the Bradford Pear is considered to be a serious problem in Kansas. Please do not wait to address the growing concerns associated with these trees. Take action today by texting Greenbelt Lawns at (316) 807.2112 to learn more about your options specifically.

Sources

Kansas Forest Service | Callery Pear | https://www.kansasforests.org/forest_health/callerypear.html

KSN | Kansas Wants to Stop Invasive Pear Tree Plantings | https://www.ksn.com/news/local/callery-pear-trees-being-pushed-to-be-in-permanent-quarantine-in-kansas/

KWCH 12 News | Tree quarantine: State stepping in to stop the spread of Bradford pears | https://www.kwch.com/2024/03/19/tree-quarantine-state-stepping-stop-spread-bradford-pears/

The Wichita Eagle | A less stinky spring? Common but foul-smelling trees will not be sold in Kansas soon | https://www.kansas.com/news/state/article287519025.html

Missouri Department of Conservation | Callery Pear Control | https://mdc.mo.gov/trees-plants/invasive-plants/callery-pear-control