Can Earthbags Be Used for Landscaping Retaining Walls?

Choosing the Right Earthbags for Retaining Walls

When it comes to selecting earthbags for landscaping retaining walls, look for polypropylene bags with a minimum weight of 2.2 pounds per square foot. These bags are durable and resistant to ultraviolet (UV) light degradation. For a standard wall height of 6 feet, use two rows of bags, stacked on top of each other, with a 25% overlap between bags to ensure stability.

Building a Stable Earthbag Retaining Wall

To construct a stable earthbag retaining wall, start by laying a foundation of compacted gravel. Then, begin stacking the earthbags, using barbed wire to tie them together and provide additional stability. For a dome-shaped wall, use a slight inward angle (about 10-15 degrees) to ensure the bags lie flat and don’t fall inward. For straight walls, maintain a consistent height and use a reinforced footing to prevent settlement. Fill the bags about 2/3 full with soil, leaving space for plastering the exterior.

Plastering and Finishing the Earthbag Wall

Once the earthbag structure is complete, apply a layer of plaster to seal and protect the bags. Use a mixture of 1 part cement to 2 parts sand, with a small amount of water added to achieve a workable consistency. Apply the plaster in thin layers, allowing each layer to dry before adding the next. For a smooth finish, use a trowel to apply the plaster and a broom to create a texture, if desired.