This paper analyses the technology development of poplar and willow nursery production in Yugoslavia in the past 40 years. The study results of several nursery experiments refer to the problems of poplar and willow nursery production. Aiming at the production of quality reproduction and planting material for the establishment of the specific purpose plantations, the paper presents the main criteria for the selection of nursery soil, elaborated technological procedures for the production of reproduction and planting stock, with the necessary tending measures which ensure the production of quality nursery stock of a definite type. The need of permanent research of growth characteristics of the newly selected clones in the conditions of nursery production has been emphasised.