Q:
I would like to build a free-standing, raised planter that can accommodate box hedges. Is there an Allan Block product that is suited for this application?
If you have a product that can be used for this sort of thing, how deep will the foot of the planter have to be to accommodate the structure safely?
A:
From your description, we would recommend using Allan Block retaining wall blocks. It would be up to you whether you are going to build your wall using block from the AB Collection or AB Europa Collection. Take a look at the Allan Block Landscape Lifestyles brochure pages 8 and 9 to help decide between the two. After choosing a collection select whether you want all the same size block, or if would like to “dress it up” by building a patterned wall. The Landscape Wall Guide’s Patterned Wall section is a great place to find more information about the different Allan Block products.
As detailed in the AB Landscape Wall Guide, we recommend burying between 4 and 6 inches of block. We also recommend placing 6 inches of crushed wall rock as the base.
If you are going to have 90 degree corners on your planters, you will need corner blocks. To learn more about corners visit the Applications portion of our AB Landscape Walls Guide.
Different finishing options are available to top off your wall. You can use either capstones, or use the lip at the top of the block as edging.
If you have any further questions, please contact us through the Contact Us link on allanblock.com or you can click on the Where to Buy link on the webpage header to find the dealers in your area to check on block and color availability.
