Select The Right Site

• Only deep, fertile, loamy soils are suitable.
• Soils should hold moisture but drain well.
• Provide access for management equipment.
• Sites should be within a reasonable distance of mills.
  

Plant The Right Crop

• You will need assistance selecting clones that are suitable for the site and resistant to pests.
• Clones should produce fiber that is marketable.
• Clones should grow rapidly enough to meet your rotation goal.
  

Use Proven Cultural Methods

• Sites must be weed-free prior to planting.
• Cuttings can be planted by hand in friable soil.
• Control weeds for at least 3 years after planting.
• Fertilization & irrigation may be required to maximize growth.
• Pruning of lower branches may be needed after several years.
  

Control Pests

• Many insects attack poplar. Some can be controlled by spraying but clonal resistance is the best option.
• The only way to control loss to diseases is through planting resistant clones.
• Fencing during the first 2 to 4 years is the only reliable defense against deer browsing in some areas.
  

Please send any comments or suggestions regarding this site to:
Ray Miller, uptic@msu.edu

Last Revised: 6-25-04