How to Build a Stepped Wall on a Sloped Lawn

Measure the slope of the yard. The rise and length of the slope will determine the angle of the slope as well as the number and depth of the steps. Each step should have a width of 2 feet. This size will keep planting and garden maintenance comfortable.

Stake off the area for each step. Start at the bottom of the yard and stake every two feet. This approach will supply an outline of where each step will begin and end. Two feet is a standard measurement but is adjustable depending on personal needs and preferences. Steps that are too wide will be difficult to prune comfortably once plants are added.

Outline the wall for the steps. Use chalk or twine to plot out each side of the wall, which will make the digging process easier and more efficient.

Remove the dirt. Use a shovel for small projects or rent a backhoe for larger areas. Begin at the bottom and work toward the top.

Construct the walls. These are made with cement block, wood, concrete or interlocking blocks. Each product will have its own process and installation instructions and must be properly anchored and constructed to manufacturer’s instructions to prevent wall failure.

Add some rock to each bed to aid in drainage; then, refill each step. Fill each bed with soil and flatten it using a dirt roller. If existing soil isn’t good for growing, replace it with fresh soil or correct it with compost.