Greetings.

Basically, I have 3 Bradford Pears what were planted when my house was
built, back in September last year. They are about 8 foot tall, small
diameter trees.

The leaves are turning brown and curling...

I was told by the contractor that as long as the grass is green, then the
trees should be recieving enough water. In the spring, I also put tree
fertilizer plugs into the ground...

Should I water more around the base of the trees? Is it some sort of
disease or insect infestation? Are they too far gone at this point?

While I have your attention, may I also ask: if these trees die, what would
be a good, hardy, low water tree for this area, and how much should a young
tree like the ones above cost?

Thanks for your time.