Boulder Retaining Walls

Boulder retaining walls have a unique flavor in the garden. Depending upon the rock used and the layout, it can have many looks. In the Eau Claire area, we have limestone boulders and field stone boulders readily available.

If you're considering a boulder retaining wall for your garden, take a look at your home. Does it have stone or faux stone on it? If so, try to coordinate the look. For instance, if you have beautiful field stone columns in front, a field stone retaining wall will look the best,

Can you plant between the boulders? Yes! In fact, it can look quite nice. Choose some small sedums like hen & chicks that will take the heat of summer and not need a lot of water. Decorative grasses like Blue Fescue could also work.

Want a great idea? What we've done is planned for one or two boulders to stick out enough for a person to sit on. This means that we've had a particularly large boulder, of course, but it's fun. Just another one of those extras that Get Creative, my company, likes to do.

You could also request a couple of boulders around your fire pit. Have your landscaper choose a couple of 'seating rocks' that are flat enough on top. Voila! Instant seating that requires zero maintenance.

Boulders can be a nice accent in the garden, too. Just don't overdo it. Plan for each one because it will be impossible to move them later without a lot of expense. I've used fieldstone, limestone, and granite for garden accents. It's hard not to like a 4' granite boulder with beautiful graining.

Boulder retaining walls look especially nice with flagstone patios. They also make nice raised planters. Can you imagine a raised planter with flowers blooming in the top and sedum tucked in between the stones on the side? If you have a country garden, this would make a great addition.

Click here for more retaining wall design ideas.

Retaining walls are a permanent investment in your home landscape. They're a great way to tackle a sloping yard or create some interest in a flat garden. Take the time to make sure that your wall is beautiful.

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