The Bradford Pear tree has been a popular tree since the USDA put it into commercial circulation in the 1960s. However, the tree is not a native species to the United States. As early as 1908, the early Bradford Pears trees were brought over from China and Korea to help support the population of native trees that were suffering from fire blight.

Essential Bradford Pear Tree Facts

• Key Visual Features: Abundant white flowers in the spring, late-shedding brilliant orange foliage in the fall
• Scientific Name: Pryus Calleryana
• Dimensions: At full maturity, the tree will stand between 30 and 50 feet tall with a diameter of 20 to 35 feet
• Shape: Shifts from pyramidal saplings to rounded mature trees
• Flowers and Fruit: The pear produced is inedible and will not attract wildlife. Flowers are large and plentiful in spring.
• Growth Rate: Proper care can lead to height increases near 2 feet a year.
• Hardiness: The tree is rated for growth in zones four through nine.

Looking at the basic information for the tree, it is easy to understand their widespread appeal in recent years. However, some flaws with the tree have become apparent as the original tree populations and landscaping trees have matured. Potential Bradford Pear tree problems include the ones listed below which one should consider before planting one in their yard.

Known Bradford Pear Tree Problems

• Smell—While the blossoms of the tree are beautiful to behold, they are less than friendly to the nose. Many liken the smell as similar to that of rotting fish. Depending on winds, humidity, cluster of these trees and temperature, the smell can get quite strong.
• Sturdiness—While these trees are quite hearty and can grow in a variety of climates, their vertical structure, crowded branching and thin branches can lead to splitting and damage as they age. They are also particularly susceptible to wind and ice damage. Constant pruning is needed.

However, for many the beauty and easy growth of the Bradford Pear tree outweigh the potential issues these beautiful trees might have. This makes Bradford Pear tree seeds and saplings easy to find at nearly any greenhouse. After choosing your new tree, these steps on how to plant a Bradford Pear tree will make sure you are experiencing everything this tree has to offer in no time.

Planting A Bradford Pear Tree

1. Dig a hole that is a few feet deeper than the root ball of your sapling. Be sure that the base soil in the hole is loose and aerated.
2. Check the soil quality. If the soil is weak or contains a lot of rock or clay, consider adding some sand or peat moss to bolster the soil before planting.
3. Loosen the perimeter roots on the tree and place it gently in the hole.
4. Replace the soil until the root base is fully covered. Soil should come up slightly on the trunk to prevent root exposure from rain or wind.
5. Pack the soil softly using your foot or shovel.
6. Water the newly packed soil regularly and check for any dips or gaps in the soil as it settles.
7. Add soil as needed until the base of the tree is firm and well built.

This should help your new Bradford Pear tree get a healthy start in its new home. Be sure to keep soil moist while avoiding over-watering. Avoid using heavy fertilizers or adding phosphorous to the soil until the root system has had time to take hold and become established. For most trees, this means waiting two to four weeks for fertilizing. Hence, there should be a heaping load of helpful information in grooming your Bradford Pear tree found online that will help you in maintaining a healthy and beautiful tree.