FRANKFORT — Kentucky property owners looking to rid their yards of invasive and troublesome Bradford pear trees may find help through the Bradford Pear Bounty Program. The University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, in partnership with the Remove Invasives Partnership of Franklin County and other local organizations, hosts the event to provide land owners an opportunity to exchange their Bradford pears for free young native replacement trees.
Bradford pear trees are popular landscape trees throughout Kentucky due to their glossy foliage and beautiful flowers. However, the trees are problematic due to their weak branches, short life expectancy and invasive offspring, the Callery pear. These invasive trees have spread throughout the state, causing damage to natural habitats and pushing out native plant species.
“Originally, the Bradford pear was hailed as this ideal tree,” said Ellen Crocker, assistant professor in the UK Department of Forestry and Natural Resources. “But now we are aware of its shortcomings, like its invasiveness and potential to drop branches and cause problems.”
The Bradford Pear Bounty Program attempts to combat these intrusive trees and restore native habitats throughout the state. Property owners who cut down their Bradford pears can receive free young native replacement trees, including species such as redbud, serviceberry and dogwood. Tree experts will help landowners select the best replacement trees for their property.
Property owners must cut down their Bradford pears to participate in the program and provide a photo documenting the cut trees. The program takes place March 25 from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. EDT at the Franklin County extension office and is open to all Kentucky property owners.
“The Bradford Pear Bounty Program is an opportunity to take action against invasive trees and promote the growth of native species,” Crocker said. “If you have a Callery pear in your yard, this is a great excuse to upgrade it to something better.”
