How to fix edging on retaining wall?

[tulle]

 hello guys, im after some ideas on what to do with the edge on of retaining wall. There’s currently a drop down that I’m concerned about. Would love some ideas on what I can do to make it safer space. I’m worried a fence will block the space to much

[EricL]

Hello @tulle 

Thanks for sharing your question about your retaining wall. Quite often a visual deterrent is enough to give individuals second thoughts in regards to approaching ledges and drop off points. I propose building a small-raised garden all around the edge of the retaining wall. A minimum height of 400mm should be enough to give people pause and a second look. 

I propose using 200 x 50mm Sleeper H4 Sienna MicroPro 2.4m as its safe for vegetable gardens should you decide to plant vegetables. It does not have to be very deep so that it does not occupy all of the space above.   

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1 and @Nailbag for their recommendations.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[Nailbag]

Hi @tulle 

You wouldn't happen to live in Qld by chance? I reckon I had the exact same house in Maroochydore when I lived there for a few years. It was the old post office and school masters house. There are stacks of there same build all over Qld.

Anyway back to your question! My solution is exactly on the same lines as @EricL in running a small narrow garden on the top edge say 450mm deep with low plants, which will stop anyone walking close to the retaining wall edge. Then a deeper garden 1-1.5m along the bottom level and plant that out with medium trees/shrubs further preventing anyone going further. This would be a great space for fruiting trees like citrus's and avocado etc.

Regards Nailbag

[Dave-1]

Morning @tulle 

Well I am going to go for the same idea but a little different to @EricL and @Nailbag lol

Instead of the garden bed on the high side (the raised section) Why not go for a raised bed on the low side, that way the "drop off" wont be anywhere near as severe. I do really like @Nailbag 's suggestion of small trees (tho id say fruit trees) Tho It would also be a perfect place to grow tomatoes (I have them growing along one of my retaining walls as the reflected heat helps them out huigely during the night)

Even a garden bed height using the sleepers @EricL mentions will make that drop so much more noticable and less dangerous.

Dave