Narrowleaf cottonwood occupies diverse habitats, promoting ecotypic variation among populations. Branches selected for propagation may have different vegetative abilities. Cuttings with terminal buds present produced roots from base of stem, whereas stem cuttings with no terminal bud present produced roots from points evenly distributed over the stem. Water availability, vegetative cutting length, and phenological status all limit artificial regeneration of narrowleaf cottonwood. Pole-sized narrowleaf cottonwood generally have lower survival rates when planted in areas with fluctuating water table levels than in areas with constant water levels.
Tall poles avoid browsing by large animals and shading by weeds.
Narrowleaf cottonwood is readily propagated by root segments. Anthropogenic modification of riparian systems may adversely affect ecosystem health. Drastic declines in the reproductive ability of cottonwoods and other native species is common. Many dams do not alter spring discharge. Dams that have no effect on spring discharge rates may not affect the production of alluvial deposits for narrowleaf cottonwood regeneration.