Managing a Leaning Northwest Poplar Tree

When to Worry About a Leaning Poplar

A 5-year-old poplar leaning south may be natural if the soil on the opposite side isn't heaved. If the ground is level, the tree is simply growing at an angle and will likely develop a curved trunk over time—no health risk. If soil is mounded on the back side, roots are failing; remove the tree. Suckers from roots can become new trees but share the parent's root system and lean tendency.