Bradford Pears: Beautiful in Bloom. Weak in Structure.
Bradford Pears are currently in bloom in Cary, and are very common ornamental trees.
Unfortunately, they are short-lived species. Their limb structure makes them weak, and also susceptible to pests. My neighbors lost two limbs from theirs this afternoon, and it is debatable that they may need to remove the rest of the tree. That would be unfortunate, considering how much afternoon shade it provides to their home.
Good stuff – thanks Mike. Can you recommend an alternative?