Assessing Bark Cracks on Bradford Pear Trees

Assessing Bark Cracks on Bradford Pear Trees

A neighbor's Bradford pear has dark, peeling areas on the trunk. Concern about disease or structural risk.

Largest crack area

Another area

Assessment

• The photos show a branch fork with bark splitting—common in Bradford pears due to weak branch attachments (narrow crotch angles with included bark).
• No obvious decay, fungal conks, or oozing sap visible.
• These structural weak points are prone to failure under ice, snow, or high wind.

Recommendations

1. Monitor canopy density each spring. Thinning leaves suggest internal decay.
2. Do not fill or seal cracks. Traps moisture.
3. Consider proactive pruning by a certified arborist to reduce weight on weak forks.
4. If the tree is near property lines or structures, discuss removal/replacement with the neighbor. Bradford pears are short-lived (15–25 years) and structurally problematic.

Bottom Line

Not a disease, but a structural defect typical of the species. Vigilance and professional assessment are warranted.