This step is often missed when building a retaining wall. Often, doet is used as backfill in stead of clear gravel.
Clear gravel allows water to drain away . Dirt holds the water, and adds pressure to the wall. Hydroimpaction is the main reason for wall failure.
Install 4 to 6″ of gravel, and a geo synthetic cloth to keep the dirt and gravel from mixing. This will ensure the wall will never move or fall over!!