Poplar Cuttings Stan, Two autumns ago we transplanted poplar cuttings from pots into the ground. The trees have now grown to 5-10 feet tall and we would like to move them to their new home. When is the best time to do this? Barry. Barry - The season to move poplars is at hand, and in your case, very likely a year to late. Poplars from containerized first year growth is aggressive and deep rooted. Not quite a tap root, but deep anchor roots and many feeder roots within the first 4 inches of the soil surface. When relocating, take as much depth as you can, with about a 20 inch diameter of the top soil. Maples and elm have tap roots, that when cut, grow poorly. Poplars seem to recover and thrive with little care, other than a good late fall soaking. No fertilizer until the new growth shows in April/May.

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