Bradford Pear Tree Update

With a life span of about 25 years in an urban setting, many of the Bradford Pear trees in First Colony are at a point where removal is necessary. Realizing this and the significant financial impact this will have due to the number of trees in FCCA’s common areas, our Landscape Department formed a task force in 2004 to develop a plan to remove and replace trees where needed over the next several years, as well as attempt to extend the life of our younger, healthier trees.

 

The Landscape Department performed an inventory and assessment of all the Bradford Pear trees in First Colony. Since the trees will be replaced in groups, not just one at a time in different areas, the trees were individually evaluated with an average rating calculated for each group. A “group” was one section of an esplanade, a landscape reserve, a section of a set-back between intersections, etc.

 

We began phase one of the long-term plan in 2005. The areas where the groups were rated in the worst condition were Sweetwater 2, Woodstream, Creekshire, and portions of Sweetwater 1. Bradford pears in FCCA common areas in these neighborhoods were replaced with trees recommended by a task force, our horticultural consultant, landscape manager, and neighborhood representatives.

 

Another part of the plan was to selectively remove trees where they are too dense to aid in the long term health and condition of remaining trees. Removing selected trees will reduce the competition for nutrients in the soil and will improve canopy condition and air circulation. Trees are an important and valued part of First Colony; however, they have been over-planted in the past and the selective removal of certain trees will result in better health, appearance, and longevity of the remaining trees. Earlier phases of our plan included Elkins Blvd., Alcorn Oaks Blvd., Lakes of Austin Park, Austin Meadows, Dulles Avenue, Sweetbriar, and Sweetwater. 

 

The next phase of our plan will involve work in the Austin Park neighborhood and along Dulles Ave. and Austin Parkway.   The best planting time for our area is fall and winter, so we will begin work in October.