Since there seems to way to little activity on this thread I will tell you why you should stay from Emerald Green Arborvitae, also known as "Smaragd".

Multiple leaders will cause the down fall of this conifer. Not a good thing as the conifer matures they become more pronounced and unruly. There are other conifers better suited for a screen. Being in Zone 5. I wouldn't want to venture to Zone 7-8. and recommend a substitute.

The Emerald green's in this photo are 5 ft. and are already becoming a disorganized screen and not the formal look you are after.

Dave
{{gwi:698078}}

Thanks so much Dave. (I was beginning to think I smelled funny since no one responded! Maybe I didn't choose my title wisely. ???) You are right. That picture shows exactly what I don't want.

I've been reading this forum, taking notes, and googling the trees in my notes. Instead of becoming more knowledgeable, I think I'm just more confused than ever! (Emerald Green Arborvitae, aka Smaragd, is the same as Emerald Green Thuja ... right? or wrong?)

I like to decide what I'm going to use in advance because I know I'll get distracted at the nursery. (So many plants, so little time.)

Thanks for your help.

Nin

spitfire,

Here is an attachment with some suggestions. Personally I like the foliage of Thuja plicata or Thuja 'Green Giant' better than Smaragd. A lot bigger and faster growing though. If the shade is not too heavy and you like junipers 'Spartan' may be a good choice. They are a pretty attractive conifer IMO. If the shade is pretty good, hemlock may be an option (I am assuming you are on the west end of the state if you are in zone 8a). Not a conifer but a lot of hollies do very well.

midtn

Here is a link that might be useful: evergreen screens for tennessee

Thanks midtn. Yes, we are near Memphis. I think we're in the only 8a patch in TN. I'm trying to landscape a narrow strip of lawn that is 12' by 30'. I'll check out the hemlocks and see if any will stay narrow enough.

Thanks again,
Nin