More modern genetically improved poplars are being developed for agricultural fiber farming. This hybrid grows faster than it's native parents. The branches are large and mature trees have a spread of 30 to 45 feet. These poplars are good general purpose trees originally bred for soil conservation. They grow extensive roots systems and have moderate life spans.
Growth rates can be very slow if grown away from deep river bottoms or stream banks.
These trees are not resistant to rusts and other diseases but generally tolerate some foliage damage. The Nursery is growing genetically improved first and second generation poplar crosses developed at Puyallup. These improved poplars are offered in three groups based upon parents. The first group is similar to our original hybrid poplars being a cross between western black cottonwoods from the Pacific Northwest and eastern cottonwoods from various locations including Mississippi and Texas. Original improved crosses were developed by plant breeders at Puyallup about 20 years ago.