[header] How to plant a tulip poplar tree [title] Look for a spot where the soil is moist but well-drained. [step] Tulip poplars will suit clay, loam and sandy soils that are moist but well-drained. Their preference is for acid or neutral soils (ph 6.1-7.5). 
They can live in zones 4-9. Avoid planting your tree in dry, shallow soil.