White poplar: when and how to prune

White poplar: when to prune it?

JFMAMJJASOND

Dead, diseased and broken branches can be removed at any time of year. If pruning is needed, do it during winter dormancy (November–March).

Prune while dormant, from November to March, but not in freezing weather.

What else to prune in those months? January · February · March · November · December

White poplar: how to prune it?

1. Mow or cut off root suckers regularly.
2. Hard pruning triggers even more suckers: prune as little as possible and only remove dead, broken and obstructive branches.
3. Train a young tree on a single leader.

How much to cut, and how often?

• One pruning period a year: November–March.
• Grows best when left alone. Only remove dead, diseased or awkward branches.

What does it mean for wildlife?

• Pruning in March can fall in the nesting season (15 March–15 August). Check carefully for nesting birds first: disturbing an active nest is against the law.
• Host plant: caterpillars of butterflies or moths eat the leaves.
• Prunings can go on a dead hedge or brash pile in a corner of the garden: shelter for hedgehogs, wrens and insects.

Common mistakes

• Clipping without first checking for nesting birds.
• Pruning too much: it grows best when left alone.
• Leaving a stub or sawing flush with the trunk: cut just outside the branch collar.

Nearby: related pruning guides

• Aspen
• Black poplar
• Grey poplar
• Hybrid black poplar
• Apple tree
• Beech

Similar to: Difference from grey poplar · Difference from silver lime

Plant profile: White poplar · Pruning calendar and basic rules