Species Balsam Poplar

Balsam Poplar

Populus balsamifera

Balsam Poplar (Populus balsamifera) is a medium-sized deciduous tree that can grow up to 70 feet tall and is native to North America. It has a 9-inch long obovate leaf with a nearly heart-shaped base and pointed tip, and has a yellowish-green color. The bark of the Balsam Poplar is yellow-brown and furrowed, and the balsam-scented buds are orange-brown. This species favors wet sites such as flood plains, and grows in clusters of several trunks. It is mostly found near water sources and streams, and is also tolerant of poor soil. This poplar species is often used as a shade tree and for decoration.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation,Air Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

Full sun Partial sun

Soil:

Sandy,Loamy

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,red,yellow,orange

Growth Rate:

Low

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Balsam Poplar (Populus balsamifera) should be watered on a regular basis, approximately every other day. Make sure soil is moist but not soggy. The amount of water should be enough to thoroughly moisten the soil, but not so much that water is running out of the container. If the soil is drying out quickly, water more frequently. In hotter, dryer months, water may need to be provided more frequently such as every day. Monitor the soil moisture level and check the condition of the plant before deciding if more water is needed.

sunlight

Balsam Poplar (Populus balsamifera) grows best in areas with full sun, meaning direct sunlight for at least 6-8 hours per day. For optimal growth, plants should receive direct sunlight in the morning, from early morning until about noon. Afternoon sunlight is beneficial but not necessary, as it makes the plants more prone to sunburn and scorching. Balsam Poplars should be protected from excess direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day, from midday until late afternoon, as this may cause serious stress for the trees.

pruning

Balsam Poplar should receive pruning once a year, usually during the late winter months (January/February). When pruning, you should aim to remove all dead and damaged branches, and to thin out any overcrowded areas. If you need to reduce the size of the tree, you can judiciously remove no more than 1 third of the living branches. Be sure to make your cuts at a slight angle, just above an outward-facing side bud. Doing so will encourage proper branch formation and promote strong, healthy growth.