Bradford Pear Removal and Native Dogwood Replacement in Chesterfield, VA
Situation
Select Tree Removal LLC was contacted by a homeowner in the Bayhill Pointe community of Midlothian in Chesterfield, Virginia, who wanted to remove an invasive Bradford pear tree. The homeowner was interested in Virginia Department of Forestry programs that support replacing Bradford pears with native trees and documenting their removal.
In addition to removing the tree and providing photographs of the work, I offered to purchase and plant a native replacement. After discussing suitable options, the homeowner chose a flowering dogwood because of its special meaning to her family. I purchased the tree and arranged to plant it after the removal.
The homeowner can submit the removal photos I provided to the Virginia Department of Forestry to document the removal and receive three additional native trees through the program. This is separate from the flowering dogwood I purchased from a local nursery and planted for her.
Challenge
Bradford pears often develop multiple substantial trunks and dense branching, creating considerable weight and a large volume of debris. They are also notorious for splitting at these junctions due to weak connections. This tree stood within striking distance of the driveway, house, street, and a mailbox with a light fixture, requiring careful planning to protect the surrounding property.
The homeowner initially requested that the debris be moved into the rear woods. After relocating several loads, it became clear that the available space would not accommodate everything. We needed an alternative disposal arrangement that would manage the remaining debris while limiting further disturbance to the lawn and surrounding landscaping.
Solution
After assessing the tree and its surroundings, I determined that selective removal of several rear trunks would help reduce the tree's back weight before the remaining structure was felled into the cleared lawn. A pulling system was used to assist with tipping the tree over, and the tree came down within the intended landing area.
I treated the stump with an appropriate herbicide to help prevent regrowth, as Bradford pears can readily resprout after cutting. The tree was then cut into manageable logs, and some debris was relocated to the rear woods.
Because the woods could not accommodate the entire volume, I discussed an additional hauling arrangement with the homeowner. To help control disposal costs, I also transported some of the usable logs for firewood processing and made additional logs available to the homeowner and her neighbor, reducing the amount of material requiring hauling.
Result
The project required a second day to complete the remaining debris handling and cleanup. We returned early to break down and load additional material, then raked the lawn. Because rain had left some areas wet, we arranged to return after conditions dried to blow out the remaining saw dust.
I also addressed scuffed landscaping by selectively pruning affected vegetation where appropriate. Once the removal and cleanup work was complete, I planted the replacement flowering dogwood in a nearby location and staked it for support.
The homeowner received documentation of the Bradford pear removal, a newly planted native dogwood with family significance, and a plan for monitoring the replacement tree. I provided a one-year replacement warranty and invited the homeowner to contact me if the dogwood struggles during the following growing season.
Project Highlights
Bradford pear removal in a residential setting
Directional felling near a driveway, house, street, and landscaping
Stump treatment to help prevent regrowth
On-site debris relocation and additional hauling coordination
Firewood salvage to reduce disposal volume
Native flowering dogwood replacement planting
Removal documentation and one-year replacement warranty
Contact Select Tree Removal LLC today for your free estimate.
Contact
Select Tree Removal LLC offers safe and efficient tree removal services for leaning, storm-damaged, diseased, dead, invasive, fast-growing, overgrown or unwanted problem trees in the Chesterfield, VA and surrounding areas.
Professional tree felling for residential tree removal / hazard reduction up to 50ft (or greater with exceptions).
Phone
info@selecttreeremoval.com
804-293-0923
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