Hello, I have lived in my home in zone 6 for over 20 years and have just started enjoying the pear tree in the back yard. I don't know exactly what type of pear tree it is, but the pears are green speckled, crisp, firm and mostly sweet. Lately the blossom end of the pears have been brownish.

Over the past 3-4 years or so the tree started to split. I am not sure what caused the splitting to begin in the first place. Two years ago it's produce was prolific. Last year it might have given us 5 pears...

I have been meaning to do something about it, however, time got away from me.

I was wondering if I can cut off one side of the split and leave the more upright side to see if it will continue to produce. Please give me your feedback.