- Like many fast-growing trees, tulip poplars often have weak wood. In woodland forests, the trees are protected by a mass of surrounding trees. They are most likely to sustain damage when planted in an open, unprotected area, such as a park or schoolyard. The trees are difficult to prune because of their height. Hire an arborist to prune them yearly to remove any weak wood that wind may damage.
- Inspect poplar trees frequently, especially after heavy winds, to check for damage. Look for limbs that are broken or split, and check the trunk for signs of damage or rotting, such as cankers, split bark or holes.
- Carefully remove damaged limbs back to an outward facing bud. When making cuts all the way back to the trunk, cut at the collar, which is the small knob between the trunk and the branch. Do not cut the branch flush with the tree. Watch for utility lines and other obstacles. Pruning damaged, twisted limbs is dangerous work because the limbs can spring back, causing injury. Hire a tree pruner if the tulip poplar has suffered extensive damage. If 50 percent of the branches are damaged, or if the trunk suffered damage, the tree may require removal.
- Few homeowners have a lot large enough to grow tulip poplars. Consider replacing the tree if it doesn't fit your yard, or if you live in an area prone to wind. Plant tulip poplars in full sun and moist, rich soil to encourage healthy growth, which will allow them to recover more quickly from storm damage. Plant evergreen trees near them as a windbreak.
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