Thinning Bradford Pear: Fertilize for Vigor

Diagnosis

15-year-old Bradford pear thinning without obvious leaf drop suggests chronic stress—likely soil compaction, drought history, or root zone competition. No visible pests/disease in photo.

Simple, Low-Cost Intervention

Apply 10-10-10 fertilizer at 1 lb per inch trunk diameter, scattered evenly under canopy and watered in. Do now and repeat next spring. This stimulates root growth and foliage density.

Why This Works

• Bradford pears are heavy feeders in turf settings.
• Fertilizer replaces nutrients lost to grass competition.
• Fall application supports root development; spring boosts canopy.

Monitor for fire blight (blackened shepherd's crook tips) next spring—prune immediately if seen.