What is the primary function of a retaining wall in landscaping?

The primary function of a retaining wall in landscaping is to hold back soil and prevent erosion on slopes. These structures are specifically designed to manage changes in elevation and to stabilize the soil behind them. By containing soil, retaining walls help to maintain level ground and prevent landslides or erosion, especially in areas with significant grade changes, where water runoff could otherwise wash away the topsoil and destabilize the landscape.

While retaining walls can indeed enhance aesthetic appeal, create boundaries for gardens, and even serve as seating areas, those are secondary functions rather than their primary purpose. The essential role of a retaining wall is structural; it ensures safety and stability in the landscaping by managing the forces exerted by the soil behind it.