We in the nursery industry like to say that trees are the answer, but David Alvand’s neighbors in Plymouth, England are raising questions about some trees that Alvand planted. They’re crying foul over the giant Leland cypress trees in his front yard that were installed for privacy. It’s not Alvand’s first neighborhood dispute over screening. Previously, they objected to the unapproved, 12-foot concrete wall around his backyard.

Restrictions on fence height are common in cities and neighborhoods, but it’s less typical to hear complaints that a tree on someone else’s property is too big. In our August issue, we talked about how hedges and other plant-based forms of screening can be considered “The original green walls.” (PDF) Should there be limits on this sort of thing? What are some ways designers can satisfy the need for screening while still respecting neighborhood sensibilities? Or is this just a case of an uptight neighborhood that needs a lot more trees, so Alvand’s don’t stand out so much? Read the article at the U.K. Guardian and tell us what you think. Or take this poll: