Question
Four years ago we put in a pool and beautiful patio. Our lot sloped so we had to install a retaining wall (5 ft height 100 ft long). The surrounding areas were very green, natural in other words a park-like setting). We had to run the retaining wall almost to the property line.  A change in ownership brought in neighbors who didn't like the park-like setting and brought in a logging company in short our setting is gone and looks like a bomb went off.  We went from having a lot of privacy which we put a lot of money into now being exposed to a four lane highway behind us. We may have to put up a privacy fence which I hate and prefer a more natural setting.  What would you suggest that might be fast growing, dense. that might be able to be planted in a small area. We have 100 feet in length but only about 2 ft. from our wall to the property line.  I have been somewhat interested in a Cleveland Pear. I've read that they are stronger than the old Bradford.  We have some Aristocrat Pears but they don't seem to branch out as much.  They would be in the sun the majority of the day.  We have currently Emerald Arborvitae but on top of the wall but it will be 4 years or so until they are much of a privacy hedge.  I know this is a lot but it is a big problem. We are desperate for a solution.  Thanks for your time.

Answer
Sandy,
First, I would not plant any trees near a pool because leaves and pools don't mix. Pear trees, in most cases are weak wooded and tend to break in strong wind and ice (not sure where you live if you have those issues). With only 2 feet you really have little or no options other than to build a fence. Most tall evergreen trees more than 8' high are going to have a rootball that requires more than 24" working area to plant. The best thin tall evergreens are arborvitae or cypress trees. If you live in an area where Italian cypress grow you could try those. But you'll have to plant small ones to get a smaller rootball.  You could plant bamboo. But be careful that they don't grow where you don't want them. It is virtually impossible to contain them without planting them in a reinforced concrete trough in the ground.
My best suggestion is take some cookies to your neighbor and try and work some thing out to plant some evergreens on the shared propertyline between you and your neighbor. Perhaps if you explain that your a "nudist" they  might see the mutual interest....(thats a joke but it might work).


Best of Luck
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