Can you build a circular retaining wall to hold flowers around an existing tree?

Answer 1

You can build a circular retaining wall but you need to remember that many trees have shallow root systems and get their nutrients from the top 8 inches of soil. You will also run the risk of encouraging the growth of fungus and rot at the base of your trees.

Having said that, you can plant flowers in the soil under the tree, just don't add the wall. Hosta, ground covers as well as shade tolerant annuals and perennials make a great focal point.

Answer 2

No, don't do that. Trunks are not meant to be surrounded by soil and moisture, they are above ground tree parts. Also the extra soil depth could smother roots underneath, tho only with a smaller tree. Also the retaining wall will damage the roots underneath plus the roots do get bigger each year thus cracking any wall on top.

I've seen far too many trees killed and retaining walls crack and heave by the retaining walls. You'd be better off, taking the grass away from the trunk a good 6 feet or more, putting down a landscape mat and then adding a decorative bark or stone and then placing a nice bench with several larger flower pots for color.

Answer 3

If you could build your wall about 4 - 5 ft in front of tree and then use boulders/rocks to sit around the tree about 2 ft out from the trunk you can build up the soil without touching the tree Or Build the wall behind the tree or Wait till winter and have tree dug up and replated at higher level. Check with a qualified contractor

Answer 4

You can build a retaining wall around existing trees but it is dangerous to the tree to raise the level of dirt within the retaining wall. This could damage the tree if the level is brought up too much.

Answer 5

Yes,I have a very nice stone wall around my tree and I grow lots of nice flowers there my tree has shown no signs of dying and I have did this for years.