The Alabama Extension Service is urging residents to swap out their Bradford pear trees for native alternatives, citing the invasive nature of the popular landscaping tree. In a recent social media post, the Extension Service declared, “Heard that some of y’all want to get rid of ‘Bradford’ pear trees. We’re on board!”.

The Bradford pear, a cultivar of the Callery pear, is known for outcompeting native Alabama species for essential resources like light, water, and nutrients. Originally introduced to the United States in the early 1900s to breed fire blight-resistant pears, the tree’s rapid growth, resilience, and early blooming quickly made it a landscaping favorite. However, its popularity has come at a cost. The Callery pear has spread rapidly, creating dense thickets that choke out native vegetation in both natural and disturbed areas. The tree’s prolific reproduction is a key factor in its invasiveness. While the ‘Bradford’ cultivar initially struggled to produce fruit due to a lack of cross-pollination, the introduction of other Callery pear cultivars has led to increased genetic diversity and abundant fruit production. Birds consume the fruit and disperse the seeds, further contributing to the tree’s spread. These invasive trees can grow between 30 to 60 feet tall and are easily identifiable by their characteristic teardrop shape, vibrant white spring flowers, and striking fall foliage.

The Alabama Extension Service recommends removing Bradford pear trees from residential properties and replacing them with native species such as serviceberry, chalk maple, or blackgum. For controlling existing trees, various herbicide treatments are recommended for both residential and non-residential areas. The Extension Service emphasizes the importance of careful application to avoid harming nearby desirable plants. Residents looking for more information on identifying and controlling Callery pear trees, as well as recommended native alternatives, are encouraged to contact their local Extension Service office.