Tulip Tree Not Flowering at 5-6 Years: Normal, But Fertilize

Tulip tree (yellow poplar, Liriodendron tulipifera) 5-6 years old, no flowers. Referred from another expert.

Normal Timeline

Liriodendron typically flowers lightly early, but heavy bloom takes 10-15 years. Age is the main factor.

Accelerate with Phosphorus

• Use high-phosphorus fertilizer: 5-30-5 or 10-52-10.
• Rate: 1 lb per inch of trunk diameter, scattered to drip line, watered in.
• Apply now and again in spring.
• Granular preferred.

Phosphorus promotes flowering; nitrogen promotes leaves. Don't over-fertilize.

Note

Saucer magnolia is also called "tulip tree" but flowers young. Confirm species.

Patience + phosphorus = future flowers.