Question
I have just built a retining wall at the front of the yard where there was a small hill and wonder if I need to remove the grass that existed or let it die under the new soil I'm dumping tomorrow.

Answer
John,

I see no problem with you leaving the grass as long as it is not under the wall itself. The retaining wall should have a nicely compacted base of gravel or road base.

When you dump the soil in to fill in the back of the wall, be sure to compact it in 8-10" lifts. This will help prevent settling over time. You may see settling as the grass dies and decays into the soil, but that is not likely if you do a good job compacting now.

I always like to see pictures of the before and after......post them if you like.

Good luck - BC