In article ,
chunky_john wrote:

I want to plant a screen to hide my shed/utility area. However, both
are under a number of quite large trees, and hence are pretty shaded
for spring and summer. What could I plant to form a screen in such a
site? The screen will need to achieve a height of about 6-8 ft. The
easy option is to continue a nearby line of Castlewellan Gold
conifers. However, I would like to use something different if
possible. I have read a bit and drawn up a shortlist, but as a
relative novice, would like some advice. My shortlist: Buxus
sempervirens, Enkianthus campanulatus, Aucuba japonica, Thuja plicata,
Pyracanthus mohave, Prunus (? which variety)

Box is very slow-growing and anything with a name like mohave probably
needs as much sun as it can get (in this dark island). You definitely
need undershrubs, and ones adapted to the far north, too. Generally,
Prunus species aren't very suitable. I don't know about the rest.

Don't forget holly (I. aquifolium), which does well as an undershrub
(but DO select a green form, not a variegated or yellow one). If
you are in a wet, acid area, camellias are good. And there are lots
of others.


Regards,
Nick Maclaren.