How To Build A Plantable Entry Monument

Step 1: Build the First Post/Pillar

Determine the location for the planter Use the patterns in Layout 1A and 1B to lay out the first course of blocks to determine where the sod and soil will be removed to construct the base.

Step 2: Prepare foundation

Mark the location of the walls and posts/pillars with a shovel. Remove the blocks and sod. For the post/pillar locations dig a level pad 24 in. (600 mm) square, 4 in. (100 mm) deep. For the panels, dig a trench 3 in. (75 mm) deep and 7 in. wide (178 mm). Fill the trench with crushed rock and compact using a hand tamper.

NOTE: The soil beneath the foundation pad must be a good quality compactable material. If soft soils are encountered, they will need to be removed and replaced with additional crushed rock. A good foundation will ensure a stable wall for years to come.

Post/Pillar Foundation Pad

Wall Panel Foundation Pad

Step 3: Level Crushed Rock in Trench

Level the crushed rock in the trench making sure the transition between the post/pillar and wall foundations are at the same height and level with each other. Make any adjustments as needed by adding or removing crushed rock.Start the second course at the post/pillar and stack the blocks as shown in Layout 2. You will need to split an AB York block on this course. Use one half of this split block at each end of the wall where it meets the posts/pillars. For more information see our tech sheet on cutting or splitting block.

Step 4: Install Corner Blocks for First Post

Begin at the first post/pillar location and place 4 Corner blocks with the long sides facing out (Post/Pillar Layout). Align the blocks with a square, and check for level. Using a dead blow hammer, make adjustments as necessary.

Block Layout for First Post/Pillar

Step 5: Install Blocks to Build Wall Panel

Once the first course of the first post/pillar is in place, continue by building the back wall using the pattern in Layout 1A. Be sure to center the wall panel on the post/pillar to keep a uniform look. Check for level from front to back and side to side as you place each block. Make adjustments as necessary. You will also want to make sure that the blocks are level from one block to the next. This will ensure that the block line up properly.

Finish the back wall by placing the four corner blocks for the first course of the second post/pillar. Once completed, check for level and alignment. It is also a good time to verify that the first and second post/pillar are aligned so that your entry monument is straight.

First Course Layout

Step 6: Build Front Plantable Wall

With the back wall complete, continue the first course by building the front curved wall for the planter (Layout 1B). Place the blocks tightly together on the level and compacted trench starting at the center of the post/pillar. Adjust as necessary so that the blocks match up with the center of the second post/pillar. In this example we built this project on sod, if you are doing the same, you will need to remove the sod from the inside of the planted area once you complete the first course of the project.

Second Chance Layout

Step 7: Install Second Course Back Wall

Start the second course at the post/pillar and stack the blocks as shown in Layout 2. You will need to split an AB York block on this course. Use one half of this split block at each end of the wall where it meets the posts/pillars. For more information see our tech sheet on cutting or splitting block.

Second Course Layout

Step 8: Continue with Additional Courses

Install the blocks for the third course as shown in Layout 3. Then continue stacking courses alternating between Layout 2 and 3 until you have reached the desired height. In this example we have a total of 5 courses for the back wall with an additional course of corner blocks (Layout 4) to finish off the posts/pillars. If in your project you would like to interlock the posts/pillars and wall panels together for added stability, see our tech sheet on interlocking walls and posts/pillars.

Third Course Layout

 

Post Block Layout

Step 9: Continue with Additional Courses

Finish the posts/pillars with Post Caps. Apply a bead of masonry adhesive (optional) near the outer edge of each Corner block and place the caps on top of the post/pillar. Finish the walls with Wall Caps. There will be a small gap in the wall. Measure the gap, mark this measurement on the cap. Then cut or split the cap to fit. Two Wall Caps will need to be split to complete the back wall. For more information see our tech sheet on cutting or splitting blocks.

Once all the caps are installed, secure them in place with a bead of masonry adhesive on both sides of the raised rings (optional). Then add any additional soil you may need to fill the planter area. If you would like to add lighting to your project, see our tech sheet on how to construct a light post. Now that your project is complete, fill the planter with beautiful plants and flowers to fit the style of your landscape.

Materials Needed:

• 28 AB York Blocks
• 8 AB Dublin Blocks
• 48 Corner Blocks
• 21 Wall Caps
• 4 Post Caps
• 2 Tubes of Masonry Adhesive
• 12 – 50 lb (23 kg) Bags of Crushed Rock*
• Plantable Soil as Required

Tools Needed:

• Shovel
• Level
• Dead Blow Hammer
• Hammer & Chisel
• Masonry Saw
• Measuring Tape
• Square
• Work Gloves
• Dust Mask & Safety Glasses

Quantities will vary depending on the required depth of rock.