The Bradford pear tree, (Pyrus calleryana or Callery pear), is a deciduous tree easily identified by its white blossoms and the rotting fish smell it can give off during the spring and summer. While Bradford pears grow quickly, their branches are very thin, so they are highly susceptible to high wind conditions & split easily. Even with very weak branches, they are quite dense, which prevents sun getting through the branches, denying grass underneath the nutrients needed to grow. Typically we do not recommend investing any money in their maintenance, as removal and replacement with a sturdier tree is the most economical long-term option. In fact, Davidson County lists Bradford Pears as prohibited trees so they can no longer be planted. However, if you love your tree and want to maintain it, the best time to prune or trim it is dormancy after leaves fall. New growth occurs in Spring and Summer, so only branches close to your roof or power lines should be trimmed/pruned during these seasons. For more information, read this article from USA TODAY: https://tinyurl.com/4cvyz7cu.