Coppice how-to?

I have several poplars on my property that I'm cutting down.

If they grow back as coppices, all the better.

Is there a good how-to on this?

Do I really cut all the way down at the base, like 2in from the ground?

Should I seal the cut with something?

Regards,
matt

Yes, cut low. No, no need to seal. When you come back in 5 years you can cut all the poles as low as possible again.
It is fundamentally simple

Aye, cut low and preferably at an angle so the stump sheds water. It's best to coppice when the tree is dormant; if the sap is rising I'd be reluctant to proceed for fear of killing the stool.

Edit: Here's a couple of links with more detailed info:

UK Foresty Commission

Woodlands.co.uk blog