How fast will a Tulip tree Liriodendron Tulipifera grow?

Watch Reply
More
Mark unread Print Skip to new
sdtn Brevard, United States Sep 20, 2013

I've read they grow fast but how fast? I have a large area on the edge of a forest where I would like to create a high canopy to grow rhododendrons and ferns under. How much growth can I expect in the first couple of years?

I live in Western North Carolina (hardiness zone 6b)

Thanks for any help!


Post #9665099
Quote
WeeNel Ayrshire Scotland, United Kingdom Sep 20, 2013

I found here in UK they take a couple of years to settle into new environment, then once they are happy, they grow quite fast, they dont flower till they are about 10-15 years old but the wait is worth it as the tree is wonderful when in flower.

In autumn the foliage turns a bright Amber to Yellow colour, then they fall to the ground, my grandkids when small thought the leaves were Fairies horse saddles and to be honest, they do take the shape of a riding saddle, OH well babes tell it how it is eh !!!!.

the tree's like some sun so dont grow then right into the wooded area, make sure there is even dappled shade, I had to get DH to remove a couple of lower branches as the tree grew larger as they were touching the ground and like you, I wanted a canopy BUT I waited till there was enough canopy above and did the cut while the tree was dormant / leafless.

20 years on and I would say the tree is now about 30 feet, it is in well drained soil and when planted, had added humus mixed into the soil and large planting hole, as we are in a windy winter area, I added a tree stake for support till the tree was large enough to support its-self, each year you need to loosen the ties on the support or the tree will have the bark damaged at the ties.

I add a clear plastic juice container with the base cut off and the cap removed, set the container into the planting hole about 2 inches clear above soil level, then backfill the hole and tread the trees root area to make sure there is no air pockets left in the soil, dont trample the soil just a firm step onto the soil is enough, when you water, you fill up the container a couple of times and this helps get water to the root area when the weather is too warm, I leave the containers for a few years and it is also a good way to add a liquid feed WHEN required.

Hope this helps you out a bit and you have many years enjoyment from your lovely Tulip Tree.
Best Regards. WeeNel.

Post #9665323
Quote
Sequoiadendron4 Lititz, PA(Zone 6b) Sep 20, 2013

These trees grow super fast. I think you could look for up to 4 ft per year after the first year or two. Good luck with it.

Post #9665661
Quote
sdtn Brevard, United States Sep 26, 2013

Great information Sequoiadendron4 and WeeNel! Thanks for your help!

Post #9670733
Quote

Post a Reply to this Thread

Please or sign up to post.
Back to Forum Homepage

More Beginner Gardening Threads

Go to all Beginner Gardening threads
BACK TO TOP