Chanticleer Ornamental Pear

(Question)

A neighbour has read that my Chanticleer ornamental pear tree is very likely to come crashing down now that it is more than 15 years old. Should I be worried?

(Answer)

The ornamental pear (Pyrus calleryana) is a dependable flowering tree with fair disease and insect resistance. Its main liability is the low sheer-strength of its wood, making its branches vulnerable to damage from winter ice and snow loading. Your tree, being about 15 years old, is still young (ornamental pear can live up to 75 years) and should pose no immediate danger to its surrounding. However, it is prudent to ensure that the tree develops structurally sound limbs by arranging for preventive pruning regularly. A certified arborist will prune to help your tree develop a good structure, and alert you to any potential issues before it becomes a problem. To find a certified arborist in your area, try searching the International Society of Arboriculture database here.

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