A successional species, eventually shaded out by other hardwoods or conifers. Does not grow well in the shade of other species. One of the best adapted to fire in the northern boreal forest. Ability to produce sprouts from roots, stumps, and buried branches enables quick recovery after fire. Colonizes large burn areas due to seed dispersal distances and its ability to regenerate vegetatively.
Severe fires kill tree but underground parts survive in moist soils.
Moderate fires may top-kill some trees, especially thin barked younger trees, while light fires usually do no harm. Repeated burning may permanently exclude Balsam Poplars. Stimulated to produce root suckers within seveal weeks following fire. Active recovery likely to begin 1 year after fire. Has an explosive recovery rate even after severe fires.