Poplars do best in regions that experience cold winters and hot summers, such as the Midwest. They do less well in areas with mild winters such as those along the coasts. Poplars grow best in full sun, having a low tolerance for shade. They accept a wide range of soil types including coarse, granular soil, but prefer fine sandy loam or silt. They prefer moist soil, like that found along stream banks where poplars thrive, but they do not tolerate flooding. If they have moisture a good part of the year, they can handle the dry periods typical of the Midwest and Great Plains. Soil should be neutral (pH 6.6 to 7.5).