Because poplars grow rapidly they are useful as screens for views and wind protection or shade. If possible choose male trees to avoid marring the landscape with the pods of fluffy, cottony stuff that accompanies the seeds that are dispersed in the wind. Poplars tend to be messy, dropping leaves, flowers, twigs over the landscape. Do not plant these trees in or near garden beds or other trees and shrubs, as they rob the soil of most of its nutrients, leaving little for neighboring plants.
These lanky trees are best grown in clumps or groups, space permitting. Because Lombardy poplars grow rapidly and have a narrow, erect habit, they are useful planted in rows as privacy screens, to line borders, and for wind protection. They are often used to line rural drives. Do not plant Poplars near buildings lest their aggressive root systems harm foundations. Plan to replace them shortly after they reach maturity, or even well before, to avoid the breakage and disease characteristic of their old age.
