Question
I need to plant either a tree or taller growing shrub to screen my pool area from the neighbor to my west. (Watches my girls while swimming :( )
The area is not real wide because we have a mow strip between the planter and lawn.  It varies in depth from 4-8 feet.  I currently have a couple of Rose of Sharons that I will be moving and some under planting, but am willing to change that also.  I do have a hard pan problem in most of the yard, but have been able to grow some smaller trees, i.e. a Mayten, Japanese Maple, and the azaleas do okay in that side of the yard.  Something with a moderate to fast growth rate would be great, but I'm not crazy about Italian Cypress.  Any ideas?  Someone has recommended Potocarpus, what do you think?

Answer
Debbie,
There are several options for you as far as quick growing privacy screens.
I would reommend Privets, Forsynthia, Pyracantha, Weigelia, Viburnum as options for shrubs.
For quick growing trees- Hybri Poplars, White pines, Canadian Hemlocks or Norway Spruce.
I would suggest that you visit your local garden center and look at the plants that they offer.
Good luck.
Ed Gulliksen