Planting a Pyramidal Cedar Hedge in a Retaining Wall: Soil Mix, Spacing, and Watering

Soil Mix

60–70% native soil + 30–40% organic matter (compost, leaves, fine pine bark, cotton burr compost, manure).

Spacing

2 feet is too close for large conifers. 4–5 feet staggered is better. Closer spacing = competition for water, nutrients, light.

Watering

Elevated beds dry fast. Check rootball moisture daily (finger test knuckle-deep). Water when dry. No fixed schedule—wind, temp, soil, plant size all matter.

Wall Strength

Roots will run along the wall and may crack it as they thicken. Build stout.