Tulip Poplars generally won’t thrive in shallow clay soils and tend not to tolerate drought. However, there are some versions of this tree that are native to Florida and will be more drought tolerant than their relatives from elsewhere.
They won’t themselves tolerate full shade however if it is shade you want they are a good choice for providing it for other plants if you do decide to plant the tree in your garden. Of course, you will need to plant shade-loving plants around the tree.
If you are planting your tree in your yard, make sure it is far away from your driveway so that the sap doesn’t get on your car.
Add a layer of compost and then rake it into the soil that is already there. This will give the soil an added boost of nutrients.
Put the sapling in a bucket of water (ideally rainwater) for a few hours; do not let it soak overnight. Avoid removing any roots or damaging them.
If the plant was supplied bare rooted, check the trunk of your plant to see where the soil level was before.
However, avoid treading down the soil surface heavily as this can damage roots.
Cut off about 18 inches (45. 7 cm) of recent growth (less than 2 years old) from a healthy-looking tulip poplar tree.
You should plant your cutting in a compost mix that is suitable for cuttings.
Once it is established and a bit more hardy, you can move it to wherever you would like it to be in your yard or garden.
If you delay planting until spring, keep the seeds in the fridge over the winter in a plastic bag together with a lightly moistened mix of sand and peat.
You can use sandpaper or wire mesh to scratch up the outside. You can also use a sharp knife to make a nick in the seed.
You should water young trees during dry periods until they are well-established: usually for the first 3-4 years of their life. If your tree loses its leaves early, this indicates drought.
