Question
Hi, I live in NJ. I want to create a "fence" on my property line where they are building a new house. I want to put some kind of shrub that will grow in a cylindracal shape that I can trim when it gets about 4 feet high. The shrub has to be deer resistent. I want to space them about 3 to 4 feet apart so that I do not create a wall. If the people who buy the house are friendly, I want them to be able to walk into the yard. What do you suggest. Thank you, Tom

Answer
Tom,
There are several plants that would fit your need.
1- Ilex glabra 'compacta'- Compact Inkberry- this is an evergreen that will grow 4-6 feet.
2- Spirea nipponica 'snowmound'- this is a deciduous plant that will grow to 5 feet.
3-Forsythia- this shrub can get unruly and will need more care than the others. It will grow to 8 feet.
4-Juniperus chinensis 'Heitz' & 'Heitz Glauca'- these upright pyramidal junipers will grow to 7 feet.
Go to the local nursery and look at these plants and decide for yourself which would be best.
Good luck.
Ed Gulliksen