Mysest56 
January 17, 2023
Gardeners in U.S. Department of Agriculture zones 5a through 9a appreciate Bradford pear trees (Pyrus calleryana “Bradford”) to get their rapid growth habit, resistance to common diseases such as fire blight, and attractive form. This ornamental cultivar has numerous disadvantages, however, including a inclination to produce weak timber and a bad branch structure. According to the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, most Bradford pears fall apart and die after about 20 years. Many homeowners must cut down weakened or dying Bradford pear trees, a process which could require removal of not only the tree, but in addition its stump and root system.
Killing Shoots
Like several other species, Bradford pear trees store energy in their roots, which can allow them to regrow even after being cut. Shoots can sprout from the stump or anywhere across the roots. They can be killed by repeatedly cutting the shoots until the roots’ energy has been exhausted. You can also reduce the risk of resprouting by fixing the stump and any cut ends with glyphosate or triclopyr herbicides. If you use chemical treatment, take care to not get any herbicide on the grass or nearby plants, because it can result in significant problems.
Encouraging Decay
If you would like to remove the stump and roots of your Bradford pear tree entirely but you do not mind waiting, speeding up the decay process may be the ideal choice. You can encourage decay by cutting on the stump away as close to the ground as possible and covering it with sod or topsoil. Insert a high-nitrogen fertilizer throughout the initial year to further raise stump and root rotting. You may see mushrooms or other fungi appear on your lawn over the main system. These organisms are harmless and can be pulled if they pose an aesthetic issue.
Digging Up Roots
If you want to take out the stump and root system of a Bradford pear tree quickly than it can decay, then digging is the only option. The best way to dig up all the roots is to produce a trench 1 to 2 feet deep and wide around the stump, severing any lateral roots. The stump can subsequently be levered out of this hole. Dig along the larger lateral roots to remove those close to the ground. Any remaining small roots should rot on their own in a relatively short period of time.
Factors
Stump and root removal can be extremely difficult and time consuming. If the remnants of your Bradford pear tree are not causing any problems, think about leaving them to decay naturally. You can conceal stumps by turning them to planter bases or by placing ivy and other twining plants nearby. If you’re concerned about lawn care, simply cut the stump off level with the ground to allow the lawnmower to pass it over without harm.