Lombardy Poplar

Lombardy Poplar Trees (Populos nigra) are wonderful for privacy screens, wind barriers and as showpiece trees with their silvery green leaves. They’re a fast growing deciduous tree that does quite well in USDA growing zones 3-9. Lombardy poplars are very cold tolerant and can reach a mature height of 40-60 feet with a spread of 10-15 feet wide. These full sun lovers are very drought tolerant and can be shaped into elegant columnar fashions becoming solid walls that take up little space in your yard. Although not evergreen, they provide great wind blockage and privacy year round!

Lombardy Poplar Planting Directions: Your planting site should be made of loose, quality soil.
1) Dig your hole two times the width and the same depth of the root system of the plant you're working with. This will give the roots plenty of room.
2) Hold the tree straight and begin back filling the hole tamping down as you go to eliminate any air pockets from forming. If pockets of air come in contact with your roots, they will dry out quickly.
3) When the hole has been completely backfilled, water the planting site to help settle the soil.
4) Mulch around the base of the tree to prevent competing weeds/grasses from growing and to conserve water moisture in the soil.
*Planting tip: If you are experiencing extreme temperatures or a severe drought, it’s suggested that you place your tree in the shade, or plant it in a well-shaded area in your lawn. Be sure to provide it with plenty of water because it can dry up easily during extreme heat periods.

Watering: During the first year, make sure your tree gets water during extended dry spells, particularly in the summer months. Drooping leaves are a sign of both over or under watering, so take great care in the watering regiment.

Fertilizer: Fertilize conservatively. Organic fertilizer high in nitrogen works well. You can use Miracle Grow such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 fertilizer formula. Avoid fertilizing the tree directly. Instead, broadcast the fertilizer around the drip line.

Weed Control: Keep weeds and grass two to three feet away from the tree in the first year. Pull the weeds initially, and then you can use a growing mat or mulch. DO NOT spray Roundup near young trees and be careful that wind doesn't blow chemical drifts onto the tree.

Deer: If you think deer may be a problem then you may want to consider caging your trees until they’ve become more established. There are many different animal deterrents out there but deer tend to adapt to different sprays and chemicals used to keep them away. Caging is best to ensure no animals can damage the tree(s).

Insects and Disease: The best defense is a healthy tree. Lombardy Poplar Trees are very hardy. Good soil, proper feeding and keeping the tree from getting too much water are key to its prosperity. If worms begin biting holes in the leaves you can sprinkle sevin dust to get rid of them. These little bites do not affect the tree since it is growing at such a fast rate and putting on so many new leaves.

Winter Dormancy: During late fall and winter, your tree will go dormant. The leaves will fall off and the stem will turn brown. Nothing will be happening above ground, but the roots will continue to grow below, especially during nice days. This winter root growth will help accelerate growth when spring comes.