Question
I'm in the process of putting together a roof deck garden, all in containers.  Through research I've found quite a few perennials and smaller shrubs that respond well to container planting in dry, fully-exposed conditions.  I am having a great deal of trouble finding just the right larger shrub that can also act as a screen (both to channel some wind exposure as well as create privacy).  Pyracantha has come up several times, but I uderstand it's quite thorny and not ideal if its adjacent to pedestian areas.  Any other ideas?
thanks,
K Mangione


Answer
Arborvitae (Thuja) would be my first choice. Italian Cypress (C. sempervirens) is another one. They can get tall, but the trick is to keep them pruned to a compact size. If you choose an evergreen, you will have the benefit of the tree year around. I would not recommend Pyracantha.

When you care for your evergreen, be careful not to over water. Don't be alarmed if you see a few brown needles. They will shed their old needles. Just sweep them up. Watch for insects. Spider mites especially. Keep the plant clean by hosing it down in the morning. Don't let it get root bound. Pot it in a larger pot if it does. It should be beautiful for you.
bakerplanter