Question
I have two ornamental pear trees about 6 yrs. old and 20 to 25' tall.  We have severe winters in this area (Foothills of the Catskill Mtns. in New York State).  The one tree has lost 3/4 of its bark around and we know once the whole circumference is gone, so is the tree.  The other tree's bark is starting to dry out also but none has come off.  We have found no insects, worms or mites and there is no discoloration under the bark. We have had an excessive amount of rain this summer also.  Can you help?  Susan Boudreau

Answer
Susan,

Without seeing the trees it is hard for me to opine.  contact your local extension office for a diagnosis.

The flowering pear trees are beautiful when blooming, but are a real pain at other times of the year.  I never recommend homeowners planting these trees.  But they are relatively inexpensive, grow quickly, and flower.  The extension office can suggest other appropriate trees to replace these two.

I hope this helps.

Gary