Last Updated:July 02, 2025, 11:42 IST
Grown on field borders, Poplar farming needs minimal space and offers high returns from its timber used in furniture, paper, packaging toys, and even artificial limbs
Poplar saplings can be planted during the monsoon months of July-August or in winter, around November-December. (Local18)
India has long been considered an agricultural country, with a large portion of its population depending on farming for their livelihood. While traditional crops remain common, many farmers are now turning to the cultivation of medicinal plants, flowers, fruits, and timber-yielding trees for additional income.
One such tree is poplar, which is being cultivated not only in India but also in several other countries. Poplar can be planted along the boundaries of fields, allowing farmers to grow other crops simultaneously while earning extra income.
According to Dilip Kumar Soni, Assistant Development Officer (Agriculture) at the State Agriculture Centre in Shivgarh, Raebareli, poplar is widely used in the production of household items. With over 10 years of experience in agriculture, Soni explains that poplar wood is in high demand as it is used to make plywood, toys, matchsticks, pulp paper, packing boxes, and even artificial limbs. This makes it a highly profitable timber tree.
Best Soil For Poplar Cultivation
Soni recommends loamy or clayey soil for the best results. The soil should have a high carbon content to support better plant growth. The ideal pH value of the soil should range between 6.5 and 7.5. Poplar saplings can be planted during the monsoon months of July–August or in winter, around November–December.
Farmers are advised to maintain a distance of 3 metres between plants and 4 metres between rows, which also leaves space to grow other crops in between.
Plantation Method
For good production on one hectare of land, farmers should choose improved varieties of poplar. Popular clones include G-3, G-48, L-34, L-51, L-74, L-188, and L-247. Around 250 poplar trees can be planted per hectare. Since the tree requires a lot of moisture, irrigation should be done immediately after planting. Pruning during winter is important for healthy growth. The tree grows up to 80 feet in height and is generally ready for harvest in six to eight years.
High Returns
By cultivating poplar, farmers can earn between Rs 8–10 lakh from one hectare over the plant’s life cycle. What makes this even more appealing is that other crops can be grown alongside poplar, maximising land usage and profit.
- Location :
Rae Bareli, India, India
- First Published:
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