Detailed Explanation of Fast-Growing Poplar Planting Techniques and Management Methods

Hello: I am a farmer from Lixian County, Hebei, and I want to plant some fast-growing poplars on my scattered plots. I would like to ask about planting density and techniques for fertilizing and pruning. Thank you!!!

Name: Wu Shun Unit: Baoding, Hebei Contact phone: 13832255385
Answer: Comrade Wu Shun:
    Hello, the cultivation techniques for fast-growing poplar are as follows:
    I. Variety selection
     There are many poplar varieties. Choosing suitable excellent varieties with fast growth, high planting survival rate, good quality and strong stress resistance (cold resistance, drought resistance, disease and pest resistance) plays a key role in future timber production.
    II. Afforestation techniques
    1. Plot selection
    Poplars all have the characteristics of fast growth and relatively high water and fertilizer requirements, so only by selecting forest land suitable for poplar growth can the expected goal be achieved. The soil in Jinghai is saline-alkaline, and the land conditions in the east and west differ greatly. When planting, it is best to choose places conducive to salt drainage, such as large ditches, large canals and both sides of roads, where rain and watering both help drain salt; choose soil with higher terrain and fertile soil layers for planting. Experience in recent years has proved that soil texture, fertility and moisture conditions have a great impact on the growth of fast-growing poplar. At Jiangjiachang in Taitou and Nanzhuotou in Wangkou, three-year-old 107 poplars reached a tree height of 9 m and a diameter at breast height of 13 cm, while in places with poorer soil conditions, the average tree height of 107 of the same age was only 5 m and the diameter at breast height was 6 cm.
    2. Careful site preparation
    Careful site preparation, ripening the soil and improving soil fertility play an important role in restoring root growth and promoting rapid forest growth and high yield.  
    3. Site preparation methods 
    Site preparation methods include pit preparation, strip preparation and full-area preparation. When pit preparation is used, the planting pit specification is 60×60×60 cm. In places with poorer soil texture, large pits of 80×80×80 cm or more may be used.
    4. Afforestation methods 
    When planting, first backfill soil to 1/2-2/3 of the tree pit, tread it firm or pour enough bottom water, and after the water seeps down, place the seedling into the pit, backfill with topsoil level with the ground, gently lift the seedling upward so that the root system spreads out, tread it firm, continue filling soil until the pit is full, then tread it firm again and water thoroughly. The planting depth should be such that after sufficient irrigation the original soil mark of the seedling is 10-20 cm below the ground surface.
    5. Seedling selection 
    Use first- or second-grade large seedlings with two-year-old roots and two-year-old stems, or three-year-old roots and two-year-old stems, and the root system must be complete. Seedlings must be dug and planted promptly; for long-distance transport of seedlings, measures should be taken to protect the root system and prevent root dehydration.
    6. Afforestation time