Q.Columnar Evergreen Shrub or Tree
Unfortunately, a requirement was made of a homeowner to plant evergreen screening (to grow at least 9 feet high) in a 5′ wide strip of land between their house and the property line. The area to be planted is on the north side of the house (in NJ) is very shaded and has large hemlocks and bamboo growing on the neighbor’s property to the north. The soil isn’t the best, and the hemlocks and bamboo take up the soil moisture. What would you recommend to be planted? Spruces and rhododendron planted here have died. I was even thinking of English ivy on a trellis since the area is so narrow and shaded.

Certified GKH Gardening Expert
This article can provide some suggestions: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/shgen/shade-loving-shrubs.htm