u/JarWesto

This is a mature and appears healthy tree (google tells me Norway Maple, invasive, but pretty). House was built in 60s, google earth shot from early 90s looked mature.

It obviously has been limited planted within retaining wall.

This week I am having a contractor rip out the brick walkway to pour concrete. I had planned to maintain the retaining wall to avoid damage to the tree and plants in it. Keep same/similar, just replace bricks

Cleaning out today, I see how tight it is. I probably should have gotten an arborist to consult. It's Memorial Day, so can not get an answer.

There is nothing I can do on driveway side.

Would it be better to rip out retaining wall on step side and try to grade into yard? It would be difficult with elevation. I am worried that demo of the wall could also damage roots.

I will try to pull rocks out that are on roots. Anything else I should consider?

Thanks.