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Reconsider Planting Cottonwood in Your Yard

By Steve Nix, About.com

Cottonwood:


Populus deltoides

Why You Should Not Plant Cottonwood!:

Cottonwood has weak, brittle wood and a shallow root system which makes the tree a prime target for destruction in a storm. Its fast growth and large size will make tree removal expensive. Plus, books have been written on insects and diseases that attack cottonwood.
Cottonwoods become large trees rapidly and are not recommended for residential planting. The first drought of Summer brings on cottonwood leaf fall which continues through early Winter.

Redeeming Features:


Dr. Mike Durr, Horticulturist, suggests that only "where few trees grow and for quick cover, cottonwood is justified."

"More Bad Trees"

More Info on Cottonwood:


Identifying poplars or Populus sp.

Identifying Eastern cottonwood or Populus deltoides

Explore Forestry

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