Question
I planted a Bradford Pear tree in my front yard about 2 years ago, and now it is about 9 feet tall. Recently I read some articles about Bradford Pear tree saying that it is susceptible to strong wind and it needs specialized pruning, and I am concerned because I live in west Texas where wind can get up to 40 mph in Spring. Should I remove my tree now and replace with another tree before it is still small? If yes, do you have any recommendations?

Thank you very much,

Jeffrey

Answer
Bradfords are relatively short lived trees--lees than 20 years due to the limb angle that the branches grow. The branches are susceptible to breakage from wind. I generally do not like bradfords but it is all up to you. If you like the tree, shape, flowers in the spring and color in the fall I would leave it be until it does start to break up. This maybe many years down the road or may not even happen. As far as a replacement I would go to a local tree nursery and ask them for a suggestion based on what you want in a tree--color, flowers, shade etc.