Trim a Bradford Pear Tree: A Step-by-Step Guide

Achieving a healthy and aesthetically pleasing landscape often involves proper tree maintenance; one crucial task is learning how to trim a Bradford pear tree. The arboricultural technique of pruning, when applied correctly, enhances the tree’s structure and promotes vigorous growth, a skill valued by organizations like the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). The bypass pruners are essential tools that ensure clean cuts, minimizing damage and disease entry. Notably, Michael Dirr, a renowned horticulturalist, emphasizes the importance of selective pruning to prevent the common structural weaknesses often seen in Bradford pear trees.

Understanding Bradford Pear Pruning Needs: A Foundation for Longevity

The Bradford Pear tree, scientifically known as Pyrus calleryana ‘Bradford’, once reigned supreme as a landscape favorite. Its rapid growth, profuse spring blossoms, and vibrant fall foliage made it a popular choice for homeowners and developers alike.

These trees were planted en masse across suburban landscapes. Their uniform shape and quick establishment promised instant beauty.

However, this initial appeal masked a host of underlying problems that become glaringly obvious as the tree matures. This is why understanding and implementing proper pruning techniques is not just recommended, but absolutely essential for the Bradford Pear’s health, safety, and longevity.

The Imperative of Pruning

Pruning isn’t merely about aesthetics. For Bradford Pears, it’s a matter of survival.

These trees are notorious for their weak branch structure. Their rapid growth leads to tight, V-shaped crotch angles that are inherently prone to splitting and breakage, especially under the weight of snow, ice, or strong winds.

Regular, strategic pruning addresses these structural flaws, promoting a more robust framework and significantly reducing the risk of catastrophic failure. Think of it as preventative medicine for your tree.

Addressing Inherent Weaknesses Through Preventative Care

The Bradford Pear’s inherent weaknesses necessitate a proactive approach to care. Neglecting pruning can lead to a cascade of problems.

Overcrowded branches restrict air circulation and light penetration. This creates a breeding ground for diseases and pests, further weakening the tree. Preventative care, with proper pruning at the forefront, is the key to mitigating these risks and ensuring a healthier, more resilient tree.

Proactive care extends the lifespan of your tree.

The Invasive Nature and the Call for Alternatives

Beyond the structural issues, it’s impossible to ignore the Bradford Pear’s impact on the broader environment. This tree is now recognized as an invasive species in many regions. Its prolific seed production and aggressive spread disrupt native ecosystems, outcompeting native plants and reducing biodiversity.

While we focus on pruning existing Bradford Pears for safety and longevity, it’s important to acknowledge the bigger picture. When considering new plantings, we encourage you to explore native alternatives.

There are numerous beautiful and structurally sound native trees that provide similar aesthetic benefits without the ecological consequences.

Consider options like Serviceberry, Dogwood, or native Crabapples. These trees support local wildlife and contribute to a healthier environment. Choosing native alternatives is an investment in the long-term ecological health of your community.

Bradford Pear Challenges: Why Pruning is Crucial

The Bradford Pear’s initial allure often blinds us to its inherent flaws. While its ornamental qualities are undeniable, a deeper understanding of its structural weaknesses reveals why diligent pruning is not merely recommended, but absolutely essential for its long-term survival and safety.

Ignoring these challenges can lead to devastating consequences, transforming a beautiful tree into a liability. Let’s delve into the specific problems that plague Bradford Pears and why proactive pruning is the key to mitigating these risks.

The Anatomy of Disaster: Weak Branch Structure

The most significant issue lies in the Bradford Pear’s inherently weak branch structure. This weakness stems from its narrow crotch angles – the angle at which branches connect to the trunk.

These tight angles create points of immense stress, making the branches prone to splitting, especially under heavy loads of snow, ice, or even strong winds.

Unlike trees with wider, more gradual branch angles, the Bradford Pear lacks the natural bracing needed to withstand environmental pressures.

The Domino Effect: Overcrowding and its Consequences

Adding to the problem is the tree’s tendency to produce dense, overcrowded canopies. This dense foliage might seem appealing, but it hinders vital air circulation and light penetration.

The lack of airflow creates a humid environment conducive to fungal diseases, while reduced sunlight weakens interior branches.

Overcrowding exacerbates the stress on the tree’s structure, making it even more susceptible to branch failure.

The Inevitable: Spontaneous Branch Failure

Perhaps the most alarming characteristic of Bradford Pears is their propensity for spontaneous branch failure. This can occur even in the absence of extreme weather events.

Due to the combination of weak branch structure, overcrowding, and internal decay, branches can simply snap and fall without warning.

This poses a significant safety hazard to people and property, making proactive pruning a critical preventative measure.

A Fleeting Beauty: Relatively Short Lifespan

Even under ideal conditions, Bradford Pear trees have a relatively short lifespan, typically ranging from 15 to 25 years.

This lifespan is significantly shorter than many other ornamental trees. Their inherent structural weaknesses contribute to their premature decline.

Proper pruning can extend their lifespan and improve their overall health and vigor, giving you more years to enjoy their beauty.

A Storm’s Perfect Target: High Susceptibility to Damage

Bradford Pears are notoriously susceptible to storm damage. Their weak branch structure and dense canopies make them prime targets for wind and ice.

During storms, branches are easily broken or uprooted, causing significant damage to the tree and potentially posing a threat to nearby structures and power lines.

Pruning as a Solution: Strengthening the Foundation

Proper pruning is the most effective way to address these inherent weaknesses. By selectively removing branches, we can:

• Improve branch structure: Promote wider branch angles and reduce stress points.
• Increase air circulation and light penetration: Create a healthier environment and strengthen interior branches.
• Reduce the risk of spontaneous branch failure: Remove weak or damaged branches before they become a hazard.
• Extend the tree’s lifespan: Improve overall health and vigor.
• Minimize storm damage: Reduce wind resistance and prevent branch breakage.

Pruning is not just about aesthetics; it is about ensuring the safety, health, and longevity of your Bradford Pear tree. By understanding the challenges these trees face and taking proactive steps, you can mitigate the risks and enjoy their beauty for years to come.

Gathering Your Arsenal: Essential Pruning Tools and Safety Gear

Before you even think about making that first cut, it’s crucial to equip yourself with the right tools. Think of pruning as a surgical procedure for your tree; you wouldn’t want a surgeon operating with dull or inappropriate instruments, would you? The right tools not only make the job easier and more efficient but also contribute significantly to the tree’s health by ensuring clean, precise cuts.

The Pruning Toolkit: A Detailed Inventory

Let’s delve into the essential tools you’ll need for successfully pruning your Bradford Pear. Each has a specific purpose and using the correct one will save you time, effort, and potential damage to the tree.

• Hand Pruners (Secateurs): These are your go-to for small branches, typically those less than ½ inch in diameter. Look for bypass pruners, which make cleaner cuts than anvil pruners.

  A sharp, well-maintained pair of hand pruners is a must for every gardener.

• Loppers: When branches exceed the capacity of hand pruners (typically up to 1 ½ inches), loppers provide the extra leverage needed. Again, bypass loppers are preferred for their clean cutting action.
• Pruning Saw (Hand Saw): For branches thicker than what loppers can handle, a pruning saw is essential. Choose one with a curved blade and aggressive teeth for efficient cutting.
• Pole Saw: For those high, hard-to-reach branches, a pole saw extends your reach without requiring a ladder in some cases. Exercise extreme caution when using a pole saw, as working at heights adds a significant element of risk. Consider whether the task is best left to a professional.
• Ladder: If you do need a ladder to reach higher branches, choose a sturdy one and always follow ladder safety guidelines. Never overreach or lean too far while on a ladder.
• Disinfectant: Sterilizing your tools before and after pruning is paramount to prevent the spread of diseases. A simple solution of bleach and water (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) or isopropyl alcohol works wonders.
• Safety Glasses: Protecting your eyes from flying debris is non-negotiable. Always wear safety glasses when pruning.
• Work Gloves: Gloves protect your hands from thorns, sap, and potential cuts. Choose a durable pair that provides a good grip.
• First Aid Kit: Accidents can happen, so keep a well-stocked first aid kit handy for minor cuts and scrapes.
• Sharpening Stone/Tool: Dull blades are not only inefficient but also increase the risk of tearing the bark, which can damage the tree. Regularly sharpen your tools to maintain a clean cutting edge.

Prioritizing Safety: Protecting Yourself During Pruning

Pruning can be a rewarding task, but it also comes with inherent risks. Safety should always be your top priority. In addition to the tools mentioned above, proper safety gear is essential to protect yourself from injury.

• Eye Protection: As mentioned earlier, safety glasses are a must. Branches can snap unexpectedly, sending debris flying.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from cuts, scratches, and potential irritants.
• Sturdy Footwear: Wear shoes with good traction to prevent slips and falls.
• Awareness: Be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards, such as power lines or uneven ground.

Why the Right Tool Matters: Precision and Tree Health

Using the right tool for the job isn’t just about convenience; it’s about the health of your tree. Clean, precise cuts promote faster healing and reduce the risk of disease. Forcing a dull tool or using the wrong type of tool can tear the bark, leaving the tree vulnerable to infection.

• Clean Cuts: Sharp, well-maintained tools make clean cuts that heal quickly.
• Reduced Risk of Disease: Clean cuts minimize the surface area exposed to potential pathogens.
• Efficient Pruning: The right tools make the job easier and more efficient, saving you time and effort.

Investing in quality pruning tools and prioritizing safety will not only make the task easier and more enjoyable but also contribute to the long-term health and beauty of your Bradford Pear. Remember, proper pruning is an investment in the tree’s future, and it all starts with having the right equipment.

Timing is Everything: When to Prune Bradford Pear Trees

Pruning is more than just lopping off branches; it’s a strategic intervention that can profoundly impact your Bradford Pear’s health and longevity. But like any skilled procedure, timing is critical. Cut at the wrong time, and you risk stressing the tree, inviting disease, or hindering its growth.

The Golden Window: Late Winter/Early Spring

The absolute best time to prune your Bradford Pear is during its dormant period, typically in late winter or very early spring – before the buds begin to swell and new growth emerges. This is usually February or March in many regions.

Why Dormant Pruning is Best

There are several compelling reasons why dormant pruning is the preferred approach:

• Reduced Stress: During dormancy, the tree’s metabolism is at its lowest. Pruning at this time minimizes stress on the tree because it’s not actively expending energy on growth.

• Enhanced Healing: As the tree awakens in the spring, it will direct its energy towards healing the pruning cuts. The timing allows the tree to seal the wounds quickly and efficiently.

• Clearer Visibility: With no leaves on the tree, you have an unobstructed view of its branch structure. This allows you to make more informed decisions about which branches to remove, shaping the tree to perfection.

• Disease Prevention: Many fungal diseases are less active during the dormant season, reducing the risk of infection through pruning cuts.

What if I Miss the Window?

While dormant pruning is ideal, don’t panic if you miss the late winter/early spring window. You can still prune your Bradford Pear at other times of the year, but you’ll want to be more cautious:

• Avoid Pruning During Active Growth: Steer clear of pruning during the tree’s peak growing season (late spring to mid-summer). This is when the tree is most vulnerable to stress and disease.

• Light Pruning in Summer (if necessary): If you must prune during the summer, limit yourself to light pruning for removing dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Avoid heavy structural pruning at this time.

• Fall Pruning Considerations: Fall pruning can be risky as it doesn’t allow enough time for the tree to heal before winter. However, you can consider very light sanitation pruning to remove diseased or dead wood.

A Note on Young Trees

Young Bradford Pears require regular training to establish a strong, central leader and well-spaced branches. Don’t wait until the tree is mature to start pruning. Begin shaping the tree while it’s young, making small, corrective cuts as needed.

Mastering Pruning Techniques: Thinning Cuts vs. Heading Cuts

Pruning is more than just lopping off branches; it’s a strategic intervention that can profoundly impact your Bradford Pear’s health and longevity.

Like any skilled procedure, timing is critical.

Cut at the wrong time, and you risk stressing the tree, inviting disease, or hindering its growth.

But how you cut is just as vital.

Understanding the core pruning techniques – especially the difference between thinning and heading cuts – is essential for shaping a strong, healthy, and resilient Bradford Pear.

Core Pruning Techniques for Bradford Pears

Several key techniques are critical to the long-term health and structural integrity of Bradford Pear trees.

Let’s explore each one.

Crown Thinning: Letting the Light Shine Through

Bradford Pears are notorious for their dense canopies, which can restrict airflow and sunlight penetration.

Crown thinning addresses this by selectively removing branches throughout the crown.

This improves air circulation, reduces the risk of fungal diseases, and allows sunlight to reach inner branches, promoting healthy growth.

Thinning Cuts vs. Heading Cuts: A Tale of Two Approaches

The choice between thinning and heading cuts is paramount.

Thinning cuts involve removing an entire branch back to its point of origin – either a main branch or the trunk.

The goal is to reduce density without stimulating excessive new growth at the cut site.

These cuts are essential for improving airflow and light penetration.

Heading cuts, on the other hand, involve shortening a branch by cutting it back to a bud or lateral branch.

These cuts stimulate vigorous new growth directly below the cut.

While sometimes used to control size or shape, heading cuts can lead to dense, weak growth and should be used sparingly on Bradford Pears.

Excessive heading cuts can exacerbate the tree’s inherent structural weaknesses.

Removing Problematic Growth: Water Sprouts and Suckers

Bradford Pears often produce water sprouts (vigorous, upright shoots arising from branches) and suckers (shoots arising from the base of the tree or roots).

These growths steal energy from the tree and contribute to overcrowding.

They should be removed promptly using thinning cuts.

Structural Pruning: Building a Strong Foundation

Structural pruning focuses on developing a strong central leader and wide branch angles.

This is particularly important for young Bradford Pears.

By selectively removing branches that compete with the central leader and encouraging wider angles of attachment, you can create a more stable and resilient tree.

Weight Reduction: Lightening the Load

Mature Bradford Pears can develop long, heavy branches that are prone to breakage, especially during storms.

Weight reduction involves shortening these branches to reduce their end weight and minimize the risk of failure.

This is typically done using a combination of thinning and heading cuts, but with careful consideration to avoid stimulating excessive new growth.

Benefits and Drawbacks: Weighing Your Options

Each pruning technique offers specific benefits and potential drawbacks.

Thinning cuts promote healthy growth and structural integrity, but excessive thinning can weaken the tree.

Heading cuts can control size, but they often lead to dense, weak growth.

Understanding these trade-offs is essential for making informed pruning decisions.

By mastering these core pruning techniques, you can help your Bradford Pear thrive for years to come.

Step-by-Step Guide: The Pruning Process

Pruning is more than just lopping off branches; it’s a strategic intervention that can profoundly impact your Bradford Pear’s health and longevity. Like any skilled procedure, timing is critical.

Now, let’s delve into a detailed, step-by-step guide for pruning your Bradford Pear tree, turning what seems daunting into a manageable and rewarding task.

Assess the Tree: A Thorough Examination

Before you even pick up your pruners, take a moment to truly observe your tree. Walk around it, taking in its overall shape and structure. Look at it like an artist contemplating a canvas, understanding its dimensions, and noting its imperfections.

• Overall Shape: Is it symmetrical? Is one side significantly denser than the other?
• Identify Problems: Are there any obvious signs of damage, disease, or decay? Look for broken branches, discolored leaves, or unusual growths. Are there crossing branches or branches rubbing against each other? Are there any branches growing inward?
• Branch Angles: Are the branch angles wide and strong, or narrow and weak? Remember, narrow crotch angles are a major weakness of Bradford Pears.

This initial assessment is crucial for developing a pruning plan.

The 3 D’s: Eliminating Problems First

Begin by removing the dead, damaged, and diseased branches. These are usually easy to spot and their removal is critical for the overall health of the tree. They’re like removing rotten apples from a barrel to prevent the spread of decay.

• Dead Branches: These will be brittle, dry, and often lack any leaves.
• Damaged Branches: Look for branches that are broken, cracked, or have been injured by wind or other factors.
• Diseased Branches: These may show signs of fungal growth, discoloration, or unusual swelling.

Cut these branches back to healthy wood, making sure to sterilize your pruning tools between cuts to prevent the spread of disease.

Thinning the Canopy: Promoting Air and Light

Thinning the canopy is crucial for improving air circulation and light penetration within the tree. This helps to prevent disease and encourages healthy growth.

• Crossing Branches: Remove any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. These can create wounds that allow disease to enter the tree. Choose the weaker or less desirable branch to remove.
• Rubbing Branches: Branches that are physically rubbing against each other. These can create wounds that allow disease to enter the tree. Choose the weaker or less desirable branch to remove.
• Overcrowded Branches: Remove some of the smaller, weaker branches to reduce overcrowding and allow more light to reach the inner parts of the tree.

The goal here is to create a more open and airy canopy. Aim to allow sunlight to filter through the branches.

Addressing Weak Branch Angles: Building a Strong Foundation

As mentioned earlier, weak branch angles (narrow crotch angles) are a major structural flaw in Bradford Pears. Prioritize pruning to address these weaknesses.

• Prioritize Strong Angles: Favor branches with wider, more open angles (45 degrees or greater).
• Remove Competing Leaders: If the tree has multiple competing leaders (main vertical stems), remove all but one to create a stronger central leader. This will help the tree develop a more stable structure.
• Reduce End Weight: If you have long, heavy branches with narrow crotch angles, consider reducing the weight at the end of these branches by removing some of the smaller branches further out.

This type of pruning is about building a more resilient tree.

The Art of the Cut: Precision and Care

The way you make your cuts is just as important as where you make them. A clean, precise cut promotes healing and prevents disease.

• Cut at the Branch Collar: Locate the branch collar, the slightly swollen area at the base of the branch where it joins the trunk. Cut just outside the branch collar, leaving a small stub.
• Avoid Flush Cuts: Never cut flush with the trunk, as this can damage the tree’s bark and cambium layer, hindering healing.
• Undercut First: When removing larger branches, use the three-cut method. First, make an undercut a few inches out from the branch collar to prevent the bark from tearing. Second, make a cut from the top down, slightly further out than the undercut. Finally, make the final cut just outside the branch collar.

A well-executed cut is essential for the tree’s long-term health.

Wound Sealers: Proceed with Caution

The use of wound sealers (pruning paint) is a controversial topic.

• Generally Not Recommended: Current horticultural advice generally suggests that wound sealers are not necessary and may even hinder the natural healing process.
• Exceptions: In some specific cases, such as when pruning trees susceptible to certain diseases, a wound sealer may be recommended.
• Consult an Arborist: If you’re unsure whether to use a wound sealer, consult with a certified arborist.

The takeaway is: Don’t reflexively apply wound sealer without understanding the specific needs of your tree.

Maintaining Health: Long-Term Care and Prevention

[Step-by-Step Guide: The Pruning Process
Pruning is more than just lopping off branches; it’s a strategic intervention that can profoundly impact your Bradford Pear’s health and longevity. Like any skilled procedure, timing is critical.
Now, let’s delve into a detailed, step-by-step guide for pruning your Bradford Pear tree, turning what seems daunting into a manageable and rewarding experience.]

Once the initial pruning is complete, maintaining the health and structural integrity of your Bradford Pear becomes paramount. It’s about nurturing the tree over time, not just reacting to problems as they arise. Ongoing care is crucial for a longer lifespan and reducing the risk of failure. Let’s examine the essential practices that will keep your Bradford Pear thriving for as long as possible.

The Foundation: Ongoing Maintenance Practices

Consistency in maintenance is key to maximizing the benefits of your initial pruning efforts. These practices encompass a range of activities, from disease prevention to structural support. Neglecting these aspects can undo your hard work and set your tree up for future problems.

Disease Prevention: A Proactive Approach

Disease can quickly ravage a weakened tree. Prevention is always better than cure. Sterilizing your pruning tools before and after each use is a simple but effective measure to prevent the spread of pathogens.

A 10% bleach solution or isopropyl alcohol works well. Good air circulation, achieved through proper thinning, also reduces the risk of fungal diseases.

Encouraging Strong Branch Angles: Building a Resilient Structure

As new growth emerges, continue to guide the tree’s development. Encourage wide branch angles (ideally between 45 and 60 degrees) to create a stronger, more stable framework. Use spreaders or weights on younger branches to train them into the desired position. This significantly reduces the likelihood of breakage under heavy snow or wind loads.

Understanding Callus Formation: The Healing Process

After each pruning cut, the tree initiates a natural healing process called callus formation. This is the growth of tissue that covers and seals the wound. Avoid making flush cuts (cuts that are too close to the trunk), as they hinder callus formation.

Leave a small collar of branch tissue intact. This allows the tree to compartmentalize the wound effectively, protecting it from decay and disease.

Maintaining a Balanced and Structurally Sound Tree Structure

Regularly assess the tree’s overall shape and balance. Remove any new growth that is crowding the canopy, crossing other branches, or exhibiting weak angles.

The goal is to maintain a well-distributed branch structure that can withstand the elements. Correcting imbalances early prevents major problems later on.

Regularly Assessing Weight Reduction Needs

Bradford Pears are prone to developing heavy end-weight on their branches. As the tree matures, periodically evaluate whether weight reduction is necessary. Thinning out the ends of excessively long branches reduces the strain on the tree and minimizes the risk of breakage.

Tree Training for Younger Trees: Shaping the Future

Young Bradford Pears are particularly amenable to training. By selectively pruning and shaping them during their formative years, you can establish a strong central leader and develop a well-balanced canopy.

This proactive approach minimizes the need for drastic pruning later on, contributing to a longer and healthier lifespan. Consider using stakes to properly train young trees in their formative years.

The Importance of Regular Inspections

Don’t underestimate the power of consistent observation. Regularly inspect your Bradford Pear for signs of disease, pests, or structural weaknesses.

Catching problems early allows you to address them before they escalate, often saving you time, money, and the potential loss of the tree. Become familiar with your tree and its growth patterns.

By diligently following these long-term care practices, you’ll not only enhance the beauty of your Bradford Pear but also significantly extend its life, ensuring a healthier and safer landscape for years to come.

When to Call the Pros: Recognizing Limitations

Pruning is more than just lopping off branches; it’s a strategic intervention that can profoundly impact your Bradford Pear’s health and longevity. Like any skilled procedure, timing is critical.

Unfortunately, not every pruning task is a DIY project.

There comes a point where the complexity, risk, or sheer size of the job demands the expertise and equipment of a professional arborist.

Knowing when to step aside and call in the pros is crucial for your safety and the well-being of your tree.

Size Matters: Dealing with Large Trees

Mature Bradford Pears can reach considerable heights, and attempting to prune branches high off the ground presents significant challenges.

Ladders become unstable, reach becomes limited, and the weight of falling branches poses a serious threat.

Pruning large trees requires specialized equipment like bucket trucks and rigging systems to safely access and remove branches.

Attempting to do this without the proper tools and training is simply not worth the risk.

Hazardous Situations: Recognizing the Danger Signs

Sometimes, the tree itself presents a hazardous situation.

Perhaps a large branch is precariously hanging, threatening to fall at any moment. Or maybe the tree is growing near power lines.

These situations demand immediate attention from a qualified professional.

They have the knowledge and experience to safely assess the situation and take the necessary steps to mitigate the risk.

Never attempt to prune a tree near power lines yourself. Contact your local utility company for assistance.

Experience Counts: When DIY Isn’t Enough

While basic pruning tasks are within the reach of most homeowners, more complex situations require a deeper understanding of tree physiology and pruning techniques.

If you’re unsure about how to properly prune a particular branch, or if you’re dealing with a tree that has significant structural problems, it’s best to err on the side of caution.

Improper pruning can damage the tree, weaken its structure, and even lead to its eventual death.

A certified arborist can assess the tree’s condition, identify potential problems, and develop a pruning plan that promotes its long-term health and stability.

The Value of a Certified Arborist

A certified arborist is a professional who has been trained and certified in the science and practice of arboriculture.

They have the knowledge and experience to properly care for trees, including pruning, fertilization, and pest control.

Hiring a certified arborist is an investment in the health and longevity of your trees.

They can provide valuable advice on how to care for your trees and help you avoid costly mistakes.

Safety First: Don’t Take Unnecessary Risks

Pruning trees can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to prioritize safety above all else.

If you’re not comfortable with any aspect of the job, or if you’re unsure about how to proceed, don’t hesitate to call a professional.

Your safety, and the safety of those around you, is always the top priority.

Remember, knowing your limitations is a sign of wisdom, not weakness. Calling in the pros when needed ensures the job is done safely, effectively, and with the best interests of your Bradford Pear in mind.

So, that’s the gist of it! Knowing how to trim a Bradford pear tree might seem a little daunting at first, but with a bit of planning and patience, you can keep your tree healthy and looking its best. Grab your tools, follow these steps, and enjoy the process – your Bradford pear will thank you for it!