When poplar is planted on the field boundaries, kharif as well as rabi crops can be grown in field throughout the rotation of poplar. In block plantation of poplar, the usual kharif crops can be grown for two years only; thereafter shade-bearing crops like ginger, turmeric, etc. are planted. However, rabi crops can be grown as usual. Poplars also serve as a windbreak. The earliest contribution of poplar trees to the farmers is fuelwood from pruning.

The rotation suggested for poplar cultivation in India is 10 to 12 years but farmers prefer to cut it at 6 to 8 years rotation. Unlike developed countries coppicing of poplar at cutting cycles of 3 to 4 years is not practised in India. The felled areas are replanted with fresh nursery stock.