Building Retaining Walls Near Trees: Tips for a Successful and Safe Project

Building a retaining wall near a tree requires careful planning to avoid damaging the tree’s roots or compromising its stability. One of the most important considerations is to avoid constructing the wall directly over tree roots. Doing so can deprive the tree of essential nutrients and destabilize it. To protect your tree, position the wall well beyond the tree's root zone, which can extend far beyond the canopy. If cutting tree roots is unavoidable, be sure to avoid large or close-to-trunk roots, as removing them can threaten the tree’s health. For guidance, consulting with a certified arborist, like those at Gregalls Tree Service, ensures proper planning. Additionally, roots can wreak havoc on retaining walls over time, even with robust materials like stone and concrete. Roots may cause cracking or upheaval, making it essential to strategically place the wall and potentially use protective barriers. Lastly, when planting near retaining walls, consider the tree's mature size and root growth to prevent future interference. For smaller plantings, shrubs or perennials offer an ideal choice, causing minimal disruption.