Planting Trees on Slopes: Creating a Level Planting Island

Planting a Yoshino cherry on a steep slope? Your sketch shows the right approach: cut into the slope and build a low retaining wall on the downhill side to create a flat planting area.

Step-by-Step Construction

1. Excavate: Cut into the slope to create a level pad at least 3× the root ball width.
2. Build wall: Construct a low wall (brick, stone, block) on the downhill edge.
3. Backfill: Fill behind wall with native soil mixed with compost.
4. Plant: Set tree at original soil level—don't bury root flare.
5. Mulch: Apply 2-3 inches, keeping away from trunk.

Critical Details

• Wall must have weep holes or gravel backfill for drainage.
• Grade surface to drain slightly away from trunk.
• Stake only if necessary; remove after 1 year.
• Water deeply weekly during first two growing seasons.

Visual Guides

The accompanying images illustrate proper terracing techniques for slope planting.