Question
Howdy, we recently lost some cedar trees that were providing privacy from our neighbours. We are hoping to replace them with something a bit brighter but also grows quickly and will tolerate a shady area. We live in Hamilton Ontario which is classified as Zone 5b. Love the look of Tri-coloured Japanese Willow as well as Azbelia and Robusta bamboo. We just do not know if they have a chance in the climate and the shady conditions. Are there better options that we are neglecting to consider?                     Much thanks, Michael and Joy

Answer
Mike,

My expertise is in house plants and I don't think they would help you much. Go back to allexperts.com then click on gardening, then click on landscaping, then click on landscaping and design, then I would suggest you choose Sean Murphy to ask the same exact question to and I think he will come up with a much better answer than I can.

Personally I'm in zone 5 too and I had a Tri coloured Japanese Willow and it might lived 3 years but this past winter was extremely cold and it is in very bad shape. The Robusta bamboo will not hold up to zone 5's possible 20 below temps. Abelia only gets 4-5 feet tall and will not stand up to zone 5 winters. Hopefully Sean will come up with some better options for you. Good luck.

Darlene