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About James L. Crowder
Expertise
I can answer questions about soils, soil amendments, drainage and proper planting. I have extensive background in homeowner labeled pesticides (insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, etc.) and their proper use. I can also answer questions about the growing requirements of specific plants

Experience
I have 37 years experience in the lawn and garden business split fairly evenly between the retail nursery business and wholesale distribution of consumer lawn and garden products. From 1990 to 2000 I co-hosted a weekly call-in talk radio program in Memphis, TN.

Organizations
Garden Writers Association Horticultural Board of the Mid South Fair

Publications
Green Thumb Magazine - out of print

Education/Credentials
37 years of learning everday.

Awards and Honors
Past president of the Memphis Horticultural Society. Past president of the Memphis Bonsai Society. Memphis Horticultural Society 2008 Horticultural Excellence Award

You are here: Experts > Style > Landscaping > Soil Issues > drainage behind a new retaining wall

Soil Issues - drainage behind a new retaining wall

Expert: James L. Crowder - 10/30/2009

Question
Last year, we installed a retaining wall to correct some erosion issues in our back yard. We installed a perforated pipe along the foundation and backfilled with gravel behind the wall. Since the pipe fed into a french drain, we figured there would be adequate drainage. Now water is pooling behind the wall, flooding the lawn, and leaking into the basement.

The area behind the wall actually slopes slightly down and away from the wall, which is contributing to the flooding. In order to improve the drainage, should I simply have that area regraded so it's flatter, or Will it be necessary to add more gravel behind the wall?

Answer
Hi Vince, Re-grading may indeed solve your problem if the gravel hasn't filled up with soil. You did not say, but usually we use landscape fabric between the soil and the rock to keep out the dirt. Water should flow to the gravel which should be the lowest spot and drain quickly.
Or you might consider a catch drain and pipe from the lowest spot to your wall if you don't want to grade it again. But this will only work if water is flowing through the gravel to your drain quickly. Jim

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