How to Use Landscape Bricks to Make a Wall

Decide the exact location and path for the wall. Install it at the base of an incline to retain soil or behind a flower garden to add structure. Outline the base of the wall with a garden stake in each corner and wrap a string around the stakes. Space the stakes so the width of the foundation is 10 to 12 inches. The standard size of bricks is 4-by-8 inches. Plan to stack the wall so it is two bricks wide for stability.

Unearth the soil within the outlined space and use a shovel to dig out a foundation 8 inches deep. Stabilize loose dirt at the bottom of the foundation with a hand tamper.

Pour 3/4-inch aggregate into the base and tamp it down until it is 3 inches thick. The tamped aggregate enables excess water to drain beneath the wall, and provides a strong base.

Stir premade concrete mix and the suggested amount of water in a wheelbarrow so it has a batterlike texture. Pour a layer of concrete 3 inches thick over the aggregate and smooth it with a trowel. Allow the concrete to dry for one day.

Mix mortar in a wheelbarrow with premade mortar and water so it is thick and smooth. Use a notched trowel to spread a 1/4-inch layer of mortar over the concrete. Spread only enough mortar to set four bricks at a time.

Press two bricks into the mortar side-by-side at the end of the trench. Spread ¼ inch of mortar on the sides of two more bricks and set them ½ inch away from the ends of the first bricks. Press the bricks into the mortar so they are level. Continue setting bricks until the first course is complete.

Spread a 1/4-inch layer of mortar over the top of the first course and on the sides of the next two bricks. Begin the second course with half bricks to stagger the joints. Set the second course of bricks, wiping off excess mortar as you go. Check that the bricks are level and adjust them as necessary. Continue setting bricks until you reach the intended height. Add caps across the top course to prevent water damage.