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Why It’s Time to Remove Your Bradford Pear Trees in Columbus, OH

  • Michael Pennington
  • Apr 11
  • 3 min read

Updated: Apr 14

Once beloved for their spring blossoms and fast growth, Bradford Pear trees are now recognized as a serious problem in Ohio landscapes. Their weak structure, short lifespan, and invasive nature make them a poor choice for homeowners and communities alike.

If your property in Columbus, OH, features one or more of these trees, it may be time to consider Bradford Pear tree removal—and Pennington’s Tree Service is here to help you do it safely and responsibly.

Tree Removal

✅ Key Highlights

  • Bradford Pear trees are invasive and hazardous

  • Common structural issues and storm damage risks

  • Threats to native ecosystems in Ohio

Expert removal services in Columbus and nearby areas



Pennington’s Tree Service provides safe and efficient removal



🌳 What Are Bradford Pear Trees?

Bradford Pears (Pyres caller Yana 'Bradford') are ornamental trees introduced in the 1960s. Originally praised for their:

  • Beautiful white spring flowers

  • Quick growth

  • Uniform shape

They became a popular suburban staple throughout Columbus and much of Central Ohio.

However, their flaws have become increasingly apparent.



⚠️ Why Bradford Pear Trees Are Problematic

1. Weak Branch Structure

Bradford Pears have narrow branch angles, making them highly prone to splitting and breakage, especially during:

  • Heavy snow

  • Ice storms

  • High winds (common in Ohio)

This creates a hazard for:

  • Homes

  • Vehicles

  • Passersby

2. Invasive and Harmful to Native Plants

While Bradford Pears were thought to be sterile, they now cross-pollinate with other pear trees, producing viable, invasive offspring. These trees:

  • Spread rapidly in forests and fields

  • Outcompete native species

  • Create dense thickets difficult to control

Ohio has now listed Callery Pears as invasive, and removal is encouraged statewide.

3. Unpleasant Odor

Despite their attractive appearance, Bradford Pear blossoms have an unpleasant smell—often described as fishy or foul. Not ideal for anyone wanting to enjoy their spring yard!

4. Short Lifespan

The average lifespan of a Bradford Pear tree is just 15–25 years. Their fast growth comes at the cost of durability, making them a short-term landscape choice with long-term consequences.



🌿 Benefits of Removing Bradford Pear Trees

Removing your Bradford Pears may seem like a big decision, but it comes with many benefits:

  • Improved Property Safety Eliminate the risk of fallen limbs and trunk splits during storms.

  • Increased Curb Appeal Replace weak, invasive trees with attractive, native alternatives.

  • Support for Native Ecosystems Help restore biodiversity and promote healthier soil and wildlife.

  • Compliance with Local Recommendations Avoid future restrictions or penalties as Ohio continues to address invasive species.



🪓 Professional Bradford Pear Tree Removal in Columbus, OH

At Pennington Tree Service, we specialize in safe, efficient, and affordable Bradford Pear tree removal in Columbus, OH, and surrounding areas. Our team is equipped to:

  • Safely remove even large, damaged trees

  • Perform stump grinding and site cleanup

  • Recommend and plant native tree replacements

Whether you’re dealing with a storm-damaged tree or planning a full landscape overhaul, our ISA-certified arborists can help.



📍 Serving Columbus and Surrounding Areas

We proudly serve homeowners, businesses, and property managers in:

  • Columbus, OH

  • Upper Arlington, OH

  • Whitehall, OH

  • Bexley, OH

  • Gahanna, OH

  • And nearby communities

Need help identifying if your tree is a Bradford Pear? Call us for a free assessment.


❓ FAQs – Bradford Pear Tree Removal in Columbus, OH

Q: Is it illegal to keep a Bradford Pear tree in Ohio? A: While it’s not illegal (yet), Callery Pears are on Ohio’s invasive plant list, and planting new ones is prohibited as of 2023. Removal is strongly encouraged.

Q: How much does Bradford Pear tree removal cost? A: Costs vary based on tree size and location but typically range from $300 to $1,500. We offer free quotes.

Q: Can I replace my Bradford Pear with a better tree? A: Absolutely. We recommend native alternatives like serviceberry, redbud, or dogwood trees.

Q: What’s the best time of year to remove a Bradford Pear? A: Fall and winter are ideal, but we remove hazardous trees year-round.

Q: Do you provide stump grinding? A: Yes, we offer full-service tree removal, including stump grinding and debris hauling.



🌱 Better Trees for a Better Future

Ready to upgrade your landscape and support local ecosystems? Consider planting one of these native Ohio trees:

  • Eastern Redbud

  • Flowering Dogwood

  • Serviceberry

  • Black Gum (Tupelo)

  • Red Maple

Pennington’s Tree Service can help with planting recommendations, tree health assessments, and long-term care.



📞 Schedule Your Bradford Pear Tree Removal Today

If you're tired of dealing with weak limbs, storm damage, or spreading seedlings, it's time to say goodbye to your Bradford Pear trees. Trust Pennington Tree Service in Columbus, Ohio, for professional, eco-friendly tree removal.

📲 Call us today or request a free estimate online. Let’s make your property safer and greener—one tree at a time.


 
 
 

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