Although Columnar poplars are not a favourite of mine, they were specifically requested as the view from the upper balcony (walk out basement) isn't ideal... in 6 growing seasons, these trees have gone from the height of the fence to what you see here.

This little columnar spruce has been in the ground for 5 growing seasons, the Hostas are full sun exposure and 6 years old now...

In 6 growing seasons, these have gone from the height of the fence to what they are now. Although they create problems with their root systems and are short lived, Columnar Poplars are unparalleled for fast growth and a living privacy screen!

2019 Addition - reducing the amount of weed whacking (Line trimming) required as well as the headache of mowing underneath the staircase!

Ca. 2015 - 2 growing seasons - note that the Monkshood are at full maturity already, but the hostas are about half size and the trees have about doubled in height/girth.

ca. 2015 after 2 growing seasons - the trees are only about double in size, note the size of the weeping spruce, about 1/3 the width of 2019.

2013 installation - compare the size of the front feature tree from 2019 to 2013! In 6 growing seasons, it has tripled in size! The Hydrangeas are relatively unchanged.