Boosting Blooms on Mature Bradford Pear Trees

Bradford pears bloom once annually in early spring before leaves emerge. Sparse flowering often indicates nutrient deficiency. Fertilize with 10-10-10 at 1 lb per inch of trunk diameter, scattered under the canopy and watered in. Apply in early spring and again in late summer to support next year's flower buds.

Avoid high-nitrogen lawn fertilizers near the tree, which promote foliage over flowers. Ensure the tree receives full sun and isn't competing with turf for water. With proper nutrition, bloom density and duration should improve noticeably by the following spring.