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[tvoivozhd <tvoivozd AT infionline.net>]

sanrico AT highdesert.com wrote:

> Thanks for taking the wheel and getting us back on track!
> I do have a question:
> I've seen mentioned, in various newsletters lately, proposals to begin
> planting/using poplar as hardwood for general construction purposes (which 
> it's
> supposed to become once it's kiln-dried).
> I'm curious if 'poplar' would include the hybrid poplars that are advertised 
> as
> being so fast-growing?
> Anybody?
> Sandy
>  

tvoivozd---Hybrid poplars, like hybrid willows like Charolais X Angus 
cattle grow faster than non-hybrids---a characteristic of hybrid vigor  
My observation (not research) is that poplar grows well wherever 
moisture-loving willows do, but not as fast, but the Matsudana X Salix 
Alba is not as brittle as the huge Wisconsin willow---good for making 
willow furniture.  If you have acid soil the Tulip Magnolia would be 
much better to grow for construction purposes.  It grows almost as fast 
as hybrids, and straight as a string, you don't have to continuously lop 
off branches to get a good sawlog---unlike poplars awillows.  Lumber has 
to be treated the same way---works fine if kept under roof and dry.  
Tulip Magnolia is even good for vertical siding (not horizontal), as 
long as siding bottoms do not touch the ground where moisture can wick 
up.  I prefer a thicker and cheaper 10/eighths siding if you buy it from 
a sawmill.