Question
QUESTION: I would like a second opinion just to be sure.  I would like to know if the Tulip Poplar Tree will grow well in South Central Kansas.  I was told by Sooner Plant Farms in Oklahoma that they have some Tulip Poplar trees in North East Oklahoma that are doing extremely well, so they thought that Tulip Poplars would grow really well in South Central Kansas too.  Could you give me your opinion on this?  I noticed that Jim Hyland is on vacation until 12/9/10, so I thought that you might have some knowledge on Tulip Poplar trees in Kansas, since you live in Kansas.

Thanks,
Tim  

ANSWER: Hi Tim,
Thanx for your question.  If you're talking about Liriodendron tulipifera, I do have some experience with that tree.  When I was a kid, we used to visit my great aunt and uncle down on their farm in SE Kansas near Pittsburg.  They had a huge tulip tree in their front yard and I remember how beautiful it was when it was in bloom.  More currently, one of my good friends here in Kansas City, has a neighbor who has a substantial tulip tree in his front yard.  My friend has many "baby" tulip trees coming up in his yard every year.  So, I would say that the tulip tree is quite hardy throughout Kansas. I hope this helps.
Tom

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QUESTION: Tom,

Thank you for your answer.  I have just one more question for you concerning the tulip poplar tree (Liriodendron tulipifera).  Do you remember if your great aunt and uncle near Pittsburg,KS or your friend in Kansas City.,KS has ever had any problem with aphid infestations in their tulip poplar trees?

Thank you,
Tim

ANSWER: Hi Tim,
Thanx for your question.  No, I have not heard of any aphid infestations.  Are you experiencing one now?  Is this an adult tree or a sapling?  Let me know.  Have you consulted with Jim Hyland here on Allexperts?  He is our Tree Expert and was with the U.S. Forestry Service, just in case you would like to have another resource.  I hope this helps.
Tom

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QUESTION: No, I don't have an aphid problem, but I was planning on planting a tulip tree here in Kingman, KS.  I read on an online forum for tulip poplar trees that a lot of people were experiencing aphid problems, but almost all of those people lived in the states of Oregon or Washington.  After talking to Sooner Plant Farms in Northern Oklahoma, a representative from my local extension office in Kingman, and you, it sounds like I should have no problem with aphids or scales if I decide to plant a tulip poplar tree.  I appreciate all of your information.  It was very helpful.  

Thanks,
Tim

Answer
Hi Tim,
Thanx for the additional information.  I think they have the aphid problem in the PNW because of their fairly benign climate.  It's wet and consistently warmer (except for our blistering summers).  The tulip tree is pretty hardy and will grow into a fine shade tree with beautiful blooms in the spring.  I've always admired those trees and I have to tell you, they are pretty impressive in full bloom.  I'm glad to hear that you have been talking with the Kingman County Extension.  That is a great resource.  Have you been to the Wichita Garden Show?  I haven't been in a few years but it is one of the best.  Much better than what we have in Kansas City.  Here's a link in case you're interested.  I hope this helps.
Tom

http://www.wichitagardenshow.com/