QUAKING ASPEN

Populus tremuloides

Willow Family (Salicaceae)

Probably the most beloved and widely available native tree of our region, quaking aspen is perhaps also the most beset with problems in cultivation, causing many experts to recommend against its use in home landscapes. It is obviously a mountain plant, growing where winters are severe and summers are generally cool, and when it is planted in the valleys in alkaline soil, it is weakened and subject to attack by several diseases. In addition, suckering is a way of life for quaking aspen, especially when the main stems are weakened. In an overwatered traditional landscape, the lawn near aspens can quickly become an impenetrable forest of suckers. If you live in the foothills or mountains, by all means plant this wonderful little tree, with its pretty white bark, black twigs, and coin-shaped leaves that turn an amazing gold in the fall. If you must try it in a valley location, try targeting the watering, surrounding the aspen planting with hardscape or desert vegetation that does not need supplemental water. Try to plant on protected northern or eastern exposures, build the soil with organic amendments, and mulch heavily to keep the root system cool.