Bradford Pear Trees: Root Damage and the Case for Removal

Why These Popular Trees Are a Liability Near Structures

A church has Bradford pears 10–15 feet from the building, 2 feet from parking and sidewalk. Roots are lifting pavement and nearing the foundation. The church hesitates to remove donated trees.

Bradford Pear Problems

• Prone to splitting in wind/ice with age.
• Dense canopy prevents underplanting; prone to mildew.
• No longer recommended or approved in many municipalities.

Trenching? No.

Cutting roots 2–3 feet from the trunk will likely kill the tree. Safe distance is 10+ feet—impractical here.

Professional Opinion: Remove and Replace

Cut them down. Replace with smaller, non-invasive flowering trees (e.g., serviceberry, redbud, crape myrtle) that won’t damage hardscape or structures. Long-term savings on repairs and liability outweigh sentimental value.