QuestionI know an aspen tree is not a wildflower, but I couldn't find another expert on the AllExpert site that I thought might be able to answer my question: How do nurseries and commercial growers propagate the aspen trees they sell? When I transplant an aspen, I just dig up a small one with some dirt still on the roots and put it in a hole where I want it. I can't imagine nurseries and commercial growers doing that. I would like to grow some to sell, but I understand you can't do it from seed. How do they do it? Thanks, Richard Turner
AnswerI have not seen aspen offered for sale by any nurseries, nor would I offer it at mine. I had one in my display garden and just treated it with glyphosate (RoundUp). The tree has a valuable role in the native ecosystem, but it is far too invasive to be used as a garden plant, in my opinion. It spreads underground and can soon form a grove.
Please understand that this is just my opinion, for which you asked. Someone else might have a different viewpoint.
If ever I wanted to offer an aspen, I would choose Populus grandidentatum, Bigtooth Aspen. Why? Because I have only seen single specimens, not groves. That does not mean it won't form groves; I am just stating my undoubtedly limited experience. I know nothing about propagating them.
