If you’ve lived in Missouri long enough, you’ve seen them—those early spring trees covered in bright white blooms. The Bradford pear (also known as Callery pear) was once a go-to landscape favorite. But today, it’s widely considered one of the worst trees you can have in your yard.
At Colonial Farms, we’re often asked: Should I remove mine?
Short answer: yes—and here’s why.
The Bradford pear is a cultivar of the Callery pear (Pyrus calleryana), originally introduced to the United States in the early 1900s for ornamental use and disease resistance.
It became popular because it grows quickly, adapts to many conditions, and produces showy white flowers in early spring.
Unfortunately, those benefits come with some serious downsides.
Bradford pear trees are now classified as invasive across Missouri.
They spread aggressively by cross-pollinating with other pear varieties, producing fertile seeds that are carried by birds and wind. Over time, they escape into natural areas and form dense thickets.
This creates real problems:
Because of this, Missouri has taken action to phase them out—including legislation banning their sale in the future.
Even if you ignore the environmental impact, Bradford pears are simply not great landscape trees long-term.
They’re known for:
Many homeowners end up removing them eventually due to storm damage or safety concerns.
Those beautiful white blooms come with a catch—they produce a strong, often unpleasant odor that many people don’t expect.
It’s one of the most common complaints about Bradford pears, and once you notice it, it’s hard to ignore.
Cutting down Bradford pear trees isn’t just about improving your yard—it’s about protecting Missouri’s landscape.
Removing even one tree helps:
In fact, conservation groups across Missouri actively encourage removal as part of statewide efforts to control the species.
There are plenty of native (and non-invasive) trees that provide the same seasonal beauty—without the downsides.
Great alternatives include:
These options support local wildlife, grow more reliably, and won’t take over your landscape.
Bradford pear trees had their moment—but that moment has passed.
If you’re planning to remove yours, don’t leave that space empty—replace it with something that will actually thrive for years to come.
At Colonial Farms, we carry a wide selection of native and non-invasive trees that offer beautiful blooms, strong structure, and real benefits for your landscape. Our team is always happy to help you choose the right tree for your space, soil, and sunlight conditions.
Stop by and let us help you plant something better!