Question
Hi Rick

I have a home in Massachusetts.  There is sun all day on my deck.  I have 2 questions.  What plants can tolerate the sun in containers and also I have a neighbors deck that is not too far from mine.  I need privacy badly.  I was thinking about growing some type of large bush or trees.  We are only seperated by my stockade fence smf oy os hot toped up to where their deck is.  Should I get big pots and put on hottop or should I grow on my deck?  Please help!  I really could use the privacy this summer.  

Answer
i'm in southern NJ(zone 7). you need to visit a local garden center/nursery to see what plants they sell & recommend for your area. many plants(junipers, arborvitae, dwarf alberta spruce, ornamental grasses, etc.) could be used as long as you take proper care of them. water by weight. pick up/or lean the pot after you water it. it should feel heavy. don't water again until it feels considerably lighter in weight(anywheres from once every 2-5 days during the hot months). the top of the soil should look light brown when the plants need water. do not let them wilt either. fertilize once a month during the growing season. you may want to store them on the east side of the house during the winter months to protect them. place them on the ground near the house on the east side. mulch them in w/root or shredded harwood mulch.
good luck
rick