Cracking and peeling bark on trees

[treefrog]

The bark on my redbuds and bradford pears is cracking and peeling, and the trees don't appear to be doing very well based on the number of leaves and general appearance relative to other healthier trees. I fear the end is near. Any suggestions?

Thx

[Marlyn]

treefrog-
Where are you located and how old are the trees? Are there other similar trees in the same area that are doing OK? Are they the same age. Here's where I'm going. Bradford Pears have problems and short lives. I know everybody and their brothers planted these trees and they are still a top seller but that does not make it a good tree. Redbuds are normally a good tree but depending on the age and conditions the tree is growing in, it may not be long lived either. Do the sick tree treatment (instructions on the home page of this site) and keep spraying the foliage with a liquid fertilizer. Look the make sure the root flare is exposed and the tree is not planted too deep. Unless you can tell me about some different condition these trees are living in that we can discuss, that's the best advice I can give. If you have pictures you can send me that would help.
Tony M, moderator (using my wife's computer-that's why the different names)

[treefrog]

Tony M -- I'm in far north Richardson (clay soil). The trees are 1-2 years old. Another Bradford Pear on the property (same water, soil, light conditions) looks fine. I had great success with a Bradford Pear at my previous house (although it was only 4-5 years old when I moved) and didn't know they were generally problematic. I'll take the recommended steps and see what happens. I'll also try to get some pictures to you. Thanks for your help!