3 tree species from Poplars.
Deciduous Hardwood
Eastern cottonwoods are among the fastest-growing trees in North America and one of the most problematic. They grow to massive size quickly, producing soft, weak wood that breaks in storms. Large limb failures are common and dangerous. The cotton-like seeds released in late spring are the other major complaint, as they clog air filters, window screens, pool skimmers, and everything else. Cottonwoods have extremely aggressive root systems that invade sewer lines and buckle pavement. In their favor, cottonwoods provide rapid shade and are important riparian trees for streambank stability and wildlife habitat. Most arborists do not recommend planting cottonwoods near structures.
$1,000-$3,500 (removal)
Deciduous Hardwood
Quaking aspens are the most widely distributed tree in North America, found from Alaska to Mexico. They reproduce primarily through root suckers, forming clonal colonies that can cover many acres and persist for thousands of years. This root suckering behavior is both ecologically fascinating and a management challenge. Removing an aspen triggers aggressive suckering from the remaining root system, and dozens of new sprouts can emerge across the yard. Chemical treatment of the stump and roots is usually necessary to prevent regrowth. The wood is very soft and weak. Aspens are relatively short-lived as individual stems, and trunk cankers, fungal conks, and borer damage are common in older trees.
$400-$1,500 (removal)
Deciduous Hardwood
Tulip poplars are not true poplars but members of the magnolia family. They are among the tallest hardwoods in eastern forests and grow fast to impressive heights. The tulip-shaped flowers in spring are showy but often too high to see. Aphid infestations produce copious honeydew that drips onto everything below, coating cars, decks, and walkways with a sticky film that turns black with sooty mold. This is the number one homeowner complaint. Tulip poplars are brittle and prone to storm damage, especially limb breakage at narrow branch angles. The bark is thin, and trees are easily damaged by sunscald, lawnmowers, and string trimmers. Tulip poplars also attract yellow-bellied sapsuckers that create rows of small holes in the bark.
$1,500-$4,000 (removal)