Question
Hello Tom,
I live in a zone 6 planting area and I was hoping you might have some suggestions on what I can plant as a property border between my neighbor's yard and mine.  The area is between the houses, the ground is hard and clay-ridden, well drained and it is mostly shady.
I've seen the typical hedges and evergreens but ideally I would like something different than these options that can be easily maintained at about 4 or 5 feet tall.  
I do appreciate any suggestions you might have.
Marion


Answer
Hi Marian,
Thanx for your question.  In one word?  Hostas.  They're tough and you can either buy the large leaf varieties or myriad other varieties, colors, patterns, even flowers.  Hostas are easy to maintain, grow in a variety of soils, tolerate shade well and your soil is well-drained.  Just amend with well-composted cow manure in the spring and again in the late fall.  Boxwood also does relatively well in the shade and can be shaped and sculpted and easily maintained and is neat and pleasant to look at.  I hope this helps.
Tom