Heavy Duty Lawn Edging? The 165 New Answer

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With cheap garden edging ideas, you can add the perfect finishing touch to your backyard features without having to spend all your savings. So if you’re planning a major outdoor makeover or just want a quick update to summer-proof your space, they’re worth considering for your landscaping plans.

It’s amazing how much a border can do – whether it’s defining a path or surrounding a patio or pond. Of course, they are also practical and keep materials such as bark chips and soil neatly in place. And there are plenty of budget-friendly options to choose from, so you can find a look that really fits your scheme.

We’ve rounded up our favorite looks to inspire you. Combined with other cheap garden ideas, it’s easy to create your dream outdoor space for less money.

11 easy and cheap garden edging ideas that will instantly enhance your yard

Although these budget garden border ideas are inexpensive, they have many style points.

1. Surround a pond with sticks

Add a natural touch to your water feature (Image credit: Jacky Hobbs/Future)

This is a nice, relaxed way to border a pond (and hide an ugly pond liner).

Simply gather sticks from your property – choosing sticks of different widths adds an extra touch of rustic charm – and then use a small handsaw to carefully trim them to a similar length.

Push them into the ground around your water feature to create an attractive border. They will also provide safe entry and exit points to the water for visiting wildlife.

Check out our special feature for more wild pond edging ideas.

2. Add a nautical twist for cheap with rope edges

A rustic look full of charm (Image credit: Jacky Hobbs/Future)

We love this budget garden idea – it’s so simple yet looks super chic.

All you need is a piece of heavy gauge rope and some inexpensive U-shaped garden pegs. It’s a perfect way to line a path or patio – it does a good job of holding gravel in place here too.

Try it in a marine themed backyard to amp up the look, along with nautical themed outdoor lanterns and maybe a classic blue and white color scheme.

3. Dress the edges of flower beds with reclaimed materials

Clay tiles add character to this flower bed (Image credit: Jacky Hobbs/Future)

Reclaimed red clay bricks or tiles can make fabulous accents in a garden and you can often find them cheap in online marketplaces.

Not only can you use it to create rustic pathways, but you can also use it to create top-notch edging for flower beds, as shown here. They will also be durable and low maintenance. And their weathered look only adds to the appeal.

It’s a look that works beautifully in relaxed country-style gardens.

4. Recycle old bottles into border trails

A cheap and effective edging idea (Credit: GKSFlorapics/Alamy Stock Photo)

Put old glass bottles to good use by incorporating them into your landscaping. Using them as a border is a brilliant free garden idea.

Firmly anchored in the ground, they form a striking border for a garden path or flower bed. Choose glass of the same color for a cohesive look or mix and match for a more bohemian vibe.

5. Weave your own hazelnut border

Try this DIY edging (Credit: Alec Scaresbrook/Alamy Stock Photo)

Feeling creative? Braiding your own garden edging from twigs and branches like hazelnut is easier than you might expect and a great way to spend a sunny afternoon. And the results are just beautiful, especially if you’re looking for budget-friendly cottage garden ideas.

If you don’t have the time, you can buy pre-woven border panels that simply plug into the ground, although of course these are a bit more expensive than the DIY method.

6. Enhance the wooden edges with a coat of paint

A smooth wooden edge adorns this flower bed (Image credit: Jacky Hobbs/Future)

Wood is generally cheap to buy, as are reclaimed garden sleepers (although be wary of those coated in creosote, which is toxic). They are ideal as a garden border, especially for raised beds or borders.

Keep them natural for an organic vibe, or update them with a touch of wood color or outdoor stain. This way you can adapt them perfectly to your garden scheme and they will be more weatherproof.

This shade of anthracite is ideal for a modern garden – and see how it helps the colorful planting really stand out in contrast.

7. Save on clams

Enhance a Seaside Theme (Credit: Elizabeth Whiting & Associates/Alamy Stock Photo)

Shells are often available at craft stores at an affordable price. They won’t do much to separate your garden materials like gravel. But if you’re looking for an edge that simply adds decorative appeal, they’re a lovely choice.

Create a border for a flower bed filled with the best coastal plants for a seaside vibe, or add them along a decked path for an eye-catching accent.

8. Add some personality to your property with vintage vinyl records

All sorts of discarded items can be put to good use in the garden (Credit: Jean Williamson/Alamy Stock Photo)

When it comes to cheap garden border ideas, there really are so many options. It’s about thinking creatively and sometimes looking at what you already have in closets or in the back of the garage.

Old vinyl records, for example, make a fun statement in this vegetable garden. It’s a versatile look for sure, but a great way to channel a good dose of personality into a storyline.

If you’re in the mood for upcycling, be sure to check out our pallet ideas for gardens too – there are tons of ways to turn them into stunning outdoor features.

9. Keep costs down with a DIY stone wall

A classic look that suits relaxed schemes (Image credit: Jacky Hobbs/Future)

Large rocks and debris can often be picked up cheaply. In fact, if your neighbors have recently done some landscaping and have something left over, they might be willing to give it to you for free.

Whether you’re working with larger rocks, smaller rocks, or a mix, it’s an easy way to define areas of a plot. And if you’re looking for a little extra height, it might be worth building a drywall – a traditional technique that’s sturdy and stylish.

Such stone wall ideas are perfect for Mediterranean-style gardens. Combine it with nearby low-maintenance rock garden plants for added visual appeal.

10. Go rustic with a chain edge

Go for an industrial style (Image credit: Jacky Hobbs/Future)

This display was spotted at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show and we just love the look. Heavy duty chains can be purchased at some hardware stores, while rusted versions can often be found on online marketplaces.

Layer them as shown here to add an industrial vibe to your property. In addition to gentle planting, the mix of textures creates an attractive contrast. A second type of metal edging has also been used here, providing additional definition and elevating the flower bed slightly.

It’s a great approach if you’re a fan of rustic garden ideas.

11. Opt for affordable store-bought options

Paving Direct’s Ropetop garden edging (opens in new tab) offers a timeless look (Image credit: Paving Direct)

If you’re short on time and want to create a sleek and elegant finish, it’s worth checking out store-bought edging options. These days there are many that are budget friendly.

And if it’s difficult to find edging that matches your patio paving, don’t worry. “Who said garden borders have to match your pavers?” says Cass Heaphy of Paving Direct (opens in new tab). If you want to save money, you can use an alternative, cheaper edging material – it makes a stylish statement with its high-contrast look.

“There are many different edging materials like slate, natural stone and sandstone to name a few,” he continues. So plenty of opportunity to get creative with your combos.

You’ve heard of life on the edge, but what do you know about gardening on the edge?

If your answer is “nothing,” don’t worry. Garden edging is easy. All it takes is creating a border around your planting beds to keep out invasive grass and make your landscape design look more polished.

We give you a rundown of the most popular garden edging materials, along with some basic advice on how to install them yourself.

Why should you border your garden bed?

Installing a garden border is a relatively inexpensive and easy way to increase the appeal of your home. A well-kept garden can even increase the value of your property.

However, landscape edging is about more than looks. It can also contain your mulch and prevent grass from entering your garden area.

The good news is that garden edging can be easy and cheap (even free).

For the simplest edging, all you have to do is use a spade or shovel to dig a small barrier between your lawn and your landscape bed. Although this method saves you money, it does require regular maintenance later on to keep your cutting edge clean.

There is a better way. You can install a permanent garden edging material that will keep your lawn and yard separate without any action on your part. With this low-maintenance option, you don’t have to worry about trimming strings in flower gardens when mowing your lawn.

Simply choose one of the landscape edgers below and let them do the work for you.

Types of garden edging materials

Metal garden border

Metal edge options include aluminum or steel. Aluminum edges are harder to find but a better choice as they don’t rust and are lighter than steel edges, making it easier to transport.

Both aluminum and steel edgings are available in a variety of colors to match any mulch you have in your flower beds. Metal edges are subtle (sometimes almost invisible) as you can see from the example pictured above.

Aside from easily blending into your landscape, metal edging can also be easy to install. Some varieties come in “no-dig” panels, meaning you just have to pound them into the ground rather than digging a trench, which many types of edging require.

Plastic garden edging

Plastic edging comes in single sheets without a ditch for easy installation, or in long rolls that you can ditch to install. The top of the plastic edge usually sticks out of the ground, so it’s not as subtle as metal. However, this is one of your most cost-effective options, so the aesthetic sacrifice might be worth the savings to you.

You can find solid black plastic edging at almost any garden center or hardware store. You will usually see normal and heavy thicknesses. Opt for the thicker options whenever possible as they are more durable and can withstand impacts from your lawnmower.

Rubber edges look and function similarly to plastic edges.

Garden edging made of wood

If you want a wooden garden border, you have many different style options. You could install small individual pieces like the ones pictured in a natural tree trunk shape or square panels.

For a rectangular garden bed, you can use long slabs of landscape wood. You can even find decorative wooden garden fences, although these are usually not that good at holding mulch in place.

The type of garden edging you use depends on the specific look you are going for. Whatever you choose, make sure you get treated wood that won’t rot.

Natural rock garden edging

Photo credit: Pixy

Natural rocks are the perfect garden border when you want your landscape to have a wilder look. Boulders, river rocks or even gravel will keep the grass from overgrowing your flower beds without looking too formal.

Pay close attention when placing the stones. Do not leave gaps for fallen grass or weeds to break through.

Garden border made of paving clinker

Paving edging is more expensive and more complicated to install than the other types of edging we’ve covered. In return, pavers look better and last longer.

Installing pavers is an easy way to add appeal to your landscape. You can enhance your garden both figuratively and literally, since you can use pavers to create a raised bed (an especially good idea for vegetable gardens).

Brick garden border

Photo credit: Pixabay

Brick edging is a classic landscape look that can complement a brick home. As with pavers, these are a bit more complicated to install than simple edging. Keep in mind that sometimes it can be difficult to level all the stones.

When purchasing bricks to use in your landscape, make sure you understand the difference between pavers and regular bricks. You can use regular bricks for landscape edging, but they’re softer and more likely to break down.

Concrete garden border

Concrete curbs are another landscape border that will last a lifetime. You can use precast concrete pavers or, if you want a more customized shape, poured concrete.

If you decide to have a poured concrete border, you will most likely need the help of a professional landscaper. Also remember that you cannot easily change the shape of your bed. With poured concrete, your garden border is carved in stone.

How to install DIY garden edging

Unfortunately, there is no standard guide for installing garden edging. With so many different styles to choose from, the way you attach the edges will also vary.

No-Grab curbs are the easiest to install, as you typically only need to drive stakes into the ground. At the other end of the spectrum, stone or brick edges require the use of mud grout and sometimes even cutting the stone with an angle grinder to get the joints to match.

Basic metal, plastic, or rubber edges fall somewhere in the middle. Here’s how to install simple garden edging materials like this one.

tools you need

Heavy duty gardening gloves

spade

secateurs

Landscape Edging Kit

hammer

How to Install a Garden Edging (in 5 Steps) Use the spade to dig a trench about 3 to 6 inches deep. Make the trench slightly wider than the width of your edging material. Use your pruning shears to cut away any small roots that are getting in the way of your digging. Place the edging material in the trench. If your edging has a decorative top that you want to show off, make sure it sits above the surface of the trench. Backfill the trench with soil. Pack the earth tightly around your edging material. Drive in the edging stakes (which should come with your landscape edging kit) about every 5 feet.

If you’re more of a visual learner, check out this overview of installing a few different types of edging:

FAQ about garden edging

How do you maintain garden borders?

Trim the edge of the grass around your flower beds with a spade, crescent edger, or similar tool. Unless you’re installing garden edging, you’ll need to do it regularly.

With any of the materials listed here, you don’t have to worry about lawn edging or maintaining your garden border.

How do you mow grass around a garden bed?

Any time you mow the lawn near a yard, make sure the discharge chute is facing away from the yard. That way you don’t ruin your plants with lawn clippings and other debris.

For the grass right next to your garden bed, you need to use a grass trimmer. However, with the garden edging materials we’ve covered, you can skip the trimming and just mow to the edge of the garden.

When to call a landscaper

Depending on the size of your yard, installing a garden edging can be quite a tedious task. Even with some of the easier-to-install materials, this project usually takes at least half a day to complete. If you don’t have that much time for landscaping, you may consider hiring a professional landscaper.

With a professional on site, you don’t have to worry about installing your edging correctly. Without lifting a finger (other than to select a landscaping professional on your phone or online), you’ll have a garden edging that looks great and works even better.

So what are you waiting for? It’s high time you started gardening on the edge.

Main photo credit: Pixabay

Landscape borders are a great way to outline one or more areas of the garden. Regardless of the style of your garden, they can be used to visually tie in different areas of a room, separate grass from the garden, or work with pathways to move people around the garden. You can use a number of different materials to create a garden border and arrange them in a variety of ways.

This is a great project to tackle in the spring once the soil has dried out. Just think of plants that haven’t yet poked through the ground. You don’t want to accidentally build something over it! If you have old brick, stone, or lumber lying around, you don’t even have to leave your yard to get materials.

Why add landscape edging to a garden?

Landscape borders are a beautiful addition to the garden for several reasons:

Aesthetically, they keep the garden clean and tidy.

Also referred to as a mowing line or mowing strip, a flat landscape edge creates a beautiful boundary between the grass and the yard. A flat edge allows a lawnmower to cut the grass around the edges, meaning you can eliminate the step of using a string trimmer.

Garden boundaries divide your garden into “rooms”.

Edging materials can prevent plants from crawling to another area of ​​a garden or a path.

You don’t have to go through the garden with an edger every year (although that in itself is a landscape edging idea).

A garden border keeps paths clearly defined, and when paths are filled with gravel or mulch, it keeps the material where it should be and out of the garden.

It can also keep people away from a certain part of the garden if needed.

Edges can define a small area, e.g. B. where a tree is planted, or a special plant.

Material selection for garden borders

The length of your garden you want to define and the materials will determine the cost. It’s a good idea to find out what your budget is beforehand. Think about the style and color scheme of your garden. I have a lot of cool colors in my front yard, so I chose gray pavers with a touch of pink for my landscape border.

A straight line can be measured with a tape measure. To determine the amount of material you need for a curved area, use a rope to outline the space and then a tape measure to determine an exact length. For bricks, divide the length by the width of one brick gauge. Order a few extra just in case.

Of course you can get creative and use materials you already have or find the materials to make your own. I love upcycling ideas. Do you have old bricks or cobblestones hiding behind the shed? When we went to our local landscaping/soil depot to look for edging ideas, my husband and I found square pavers that were the perfect shape and color. They were discounted because they came from another garden. I think this place also acts as a reseller. We meticulously counted what we needed and loaded it into the car!

Dig a spot for your edging material

A good garden spade should be able to cut through peat grass. A garden edger might help you start with a small dig, but you’ll need a shovel to scoop up the soil of a larger area. If you’re digging in your yard to anchor the ground of a higher boundary or to secure a single tier of brick or stone, dig a trench a few inches wider on either side of your brick or stone. Set the soil aside on a tarp or in a wheelbarrow. This will be used to fill in the gaps on either side of the material after it has been buried.

Inspiration for landscape borders

Look to neighborhood gardens and public gardens for garden border ideas. You might just find something innovative and cool that you’ve never seen before. Some of the ideas gathered here include cobblestone, wattle (on my DIY To Make list!), concrete, steel, plastic, and brick and stone.

This is how you create a sharp edge between the grass and the garden

If you have an existing garden that you are tending, remove the soil from the border of the grass. Use your edger or spade to neaten the line and redefine your edge.

When creating a new edging, such as widening a garden, use your edging tool or spade to cut. If necessary, use your foot and drive it into the ground as deep as possible. Use it to lift away the lawn leaving a nice clean edge.

Create landscape borders with paving stones

In my book, Gardening Your Front Yard, I wanted to include a border mowing project. I had planted a border with perennial tulips and other spring bulbs that went a little awry because the grass was growing into the garden area and it was difficult to pull it out around the bulbs as they grew. My husband used the recycled pavers mentioned above to create the edging. He installed the landscape border, but we then decided we wanted a path too.

Wattle landscape border

I love the tidy yet rustic look of braided edges. Willow is a very pliable, easy to use material. It’s worth noting that The Lovely Greens has a great DIY on using pruned raspberry canes to make an acacia border. With this idea, you may need to occasionally adjust or replace some of the sticks. But overall, wattle gives the garden a unique look.

Create landscape borders out of rocks

This idea isn’t as neat and tidy as, say, lined-up paving stones, but stones are a beautiful way to outline a woodland garden or a backyard shade garden. They just have to keep an eye on the weeding around them.

Garden border ideas for poured concrete

Poured concrete creates a very durable, definitive border around a garden. It allows you to add a sharp, clean edge. The concrete also serves as a nice barrier between the lawn and the garden soil. You should keep it low to the ground – no more than an inch off the ground. With wooden stakes and hardboard you can draw your own straight or curved lines. You can even get creative with special shapes and add a pattern.

Garden border made of clay fireplace foil

These clay chimney liners are like concrete blocks – they provide extra planting space while also providing the structure of a garden border. The only problem with clay if you live in a northern climate is the potential for it to eventually crack through the winter freeze/thaw.

Plastic landscape edging

Plastic is not my favorite material to line a garden with. I have a garden full of daylilies bordered with a long piece of plastic border that was there when I moved in. Over time it has lifted and warped and looks messy. Every year I want to pull it out. Plastic edging can also be in interlocking pieces, which can prevent the wavy bending that occurs after a long winter.

Landscape borders of steel

Steel is a material that stands the test of time. It will not tear or move. The shiny metal material will rust to a chic patina over the years. There are kits that allow you to install the material yourself.

Edging of a garden with bricks

There are a few ways to demarcate a brick garden. One is to turn them onto their ends and bury them to a predetermined height. Another option is to lay them flat. You can sprout ground covers like Irish moss between them, or fill the space with fine gravel or concrete.

Stacking fieldstone into a garden border

This is another great idea if you have materials lying around – maybe an old garden path or patio area you want to dig up. Just stack your stone to create the border.

pin it!

Mowing a lawn nicely without edging the perimeter and flower beds is like getting a great haircut but leaving an overgrown beard unkempt. You could, but why should you?

We all know the guy with the perfect turf, the golf green grass with perfectly squared edges. This guy.

Guess what? His secret is out, and it’s not difficult. The see-through glimpse of soil in the edging looks sharp and chic, but also keeps grass from entering your garden beds, sidewalk, or driveway. It doesn’t take a horticulture degree to border a lawn! All you need is time, the right tools, and patience.

Tool Notes: Some lawn edgers are great for corners, others suck. Be sure to choose one that’s up to the challenge of making clean cuts on any edge, be it straight or curved. The modest additional investment is worth it.

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Step 1

Just like masking before painting, it’s best to know what you’re trying to achieve with edges.

When you are first edging your garden and creating new beds, mark a path with rope or a garden hose that will be laid where you want to make your edging. (You will rank between your chosen lead and the sidewalk or flower bed, so place your lead accordingly.)

Some advise spraying your way, but this can cause as many problems as it solves if your spray becomes unruly or an unexpected gust of wind blows.

When edges are obvious, such as B. along sidewalks, you can skip this step.

Need help? Some jobs are better left to the professionals. Get a free, no-obligation estimate from licensed lawn care professionals in your area. Find professionals now +

step 2

For straight edges, start at one end. With curved edges, it may be easier to control the shape if you start in the middle and then work on both sides. Depending on the type of edger you’ve invested in, your technique will vary slightly.

When power edging, adopt a good stance that allows you to slowly advance while firmly controlling your edger’s path. Engaging your core and paying attention to your posture will keep you in control. If you’re new to this, do your first practice edge in the backyard so you can get the hang of it before the front yard for all to see. Go slow because the faster you go, the more likely you are to go wrong and get a shaky cut or go off track.

Manual edging uses a tool that looks like a shovel with a crescent blade. Push it in firmly but gently with your feet and twist the blade left to right or vice versa to get your cut. Be sure to use the same procedures as when shoveling to avoid straining your back. Overlapping cut marks at each cut can help you stay straight.

step 3

With either method, only cut about 2 inches deep and be careful of underground pipes and cables. This depth may seem arbitrary, but it is reached by most power edgers and tends to be enough to control root spread. Two inches is a rough guide, but it’s your choice. See which depth is easiest to manage.

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step 4

Remove cut lawns regularly to ensure you are making clean lines. Step back to get a good look and make corrections in places where you might have wobbled or cut inconsistently along the way.

step 5

When edging garden beds, grab the spade and deepen edged cuts to about 4 to 6 inches if your flower beds are sunken. If it is a raised bed, choose a depth that is aesthetically pleasing to your bed. Cut into the soil from the inside of the beds to easily remove the sod. Some prefer a 90 degree angle for this, but really it’s all about consistency from end to end, so pick an angle and go through with it.

step 6

Ah, the reward! It’s time for perfect edges. Get out the weed killer or hand shears! The goal here is to cut the grass perfectly to the edge of the ditch. The weed killer might be overzealous, so proceed with caution. Hand shears will do a nice, meticulous job. Repeat this task as needed throughout the season.

step 7

Be nice to your tools. Before putting them away, clean and dry all blades and follow your power tool manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations.

In general, manual edgers can be filed or sharpened if you find it tedious to use, but cleaning after each use prolongs their sharpness.

Power edgers are similar to lawnmowers – the blades should be fine for up to three years, but watch out for nicks and other damage that may need replacing.

Look for blades of grass that appear to have been snapped off rather than sheared off as an indication that your blades need attention.

Now grab a chair and enjoy the beauty of a manicured garden.

Landscape borders serve multiple purposes, including providing a sharp and prominent boundary to the landscape element, providing a barricade to keep grass roots and weed seeds out of the flower bed, and to keep the mulch or gravel within the boundaries.

One thing landscape edging is not supposed to do is harm your lawn. But sometimes that can happen if you’re not careful.

What I mean? Well, if you’ve put some effort and work into the appearance of your landscape, it would be a shame to go so far as to spoil the appearance by adding a cheap looking edge that detracts from the beauty of your landscape.

Additionally, certain materials used for some landscape edging can also attract insects and other insects to your garden bed. Ants and many other insects prefer protection from larger landscape features such as rocks, bricks, and beams. These items have a larger “footprint” in your landscape, encouraging subterranean insects more than edging, which only leaves a thin line or small footprint.

This will not only destroy your edging, but also any ornamental plants that you have planted in your garden bed. Add to that the fact that if you choose the “wrong” landscape edging option for your type of grassroots system (its depth), it could fail in its intended purpose. And finally, your choices could result in more work or maintenance than less – if you’re not careful.

The bottom line is you need to make sure that the landscape border option you choose for your lawn and beds is the best for your aesthetic desires, grass type, maintenance and upkeep preferences, and budget.

What are you willing to sacrifice?

Some individuals may be willing to sacrifice a little more money to ensure they have as little maintenance as possible. Others are willing to sacrifice a little on looks to ensure the landscape edging performs to its full potential to serve its many purposes.

Weigh a few different options that the world of landscape edging has to offer you and determine what you are willing and not willing to sacrifice. Perhaps you are even asking yourself: “What is a wish and what is a need?” Is it worth it to get inexpensive edge protection? Need to replace that edge less than a year or two later? Will it even save you money in the long run?

Cheap landscape edging options

Some inexpensive landscape edging options include plastic, wood, fencing, and recycled materials. On a tight budget it’s tempting to buy the cheapest edging material you can find, but is it worth it? Unfortunately, that’s always the case. You mostly get what you pay for.

plastic edging

Plastic edges are one of the easier edges to install.

Basic Plastic Edges – On the other hand, cracking, breaking, fading and brittleness are all common consequences associated with basic plastic edges. Most synthetics can take a beating from the grazer once or twice, but the simple ones definitely won’t last a lifetime. They also become unsightly over time and need to be replaced. The time frame can range from months to years depending on the type of plastic and environmental conditions.

HDPE Plastic Edging – Alternatively there is the HDPE plastic edging such as our Grass Barrier Landscape Edging product. This option is a high quality, durable, recycled plastic choice that can actually last 100 years in the ground. Despite this, it is flexible like other plastics.

wooden edge

Wood edges are inexpensive and natural. If you are going for a rustic look or are looking for an edging option to complement your rustic landscape, wood can be one of your considerations. If going all natural is of interest, you need to check whether or not the wood has been treated with harsh chemicals. However, any natural wood tends to rot in a short time, which attracts termites. Termites eat the wood and can even damage your plants and harm your landscape. On the other hand, chemically treated wood can be harmful to your plants if the chemicals are absorbed into the soil and can harm you if those plants are edible.

fencing

This fence is not the fence that surrounds your yard. This is a short garden fence used to create a decorative border around your garden bed. In most cases, fences come in kits, making them easy to purchase and install. A fence is not usually a solid barrier, it is more commonly a wire or metal fence that has open gaps, exposing the garden bed to small debris from the lawn. As such, it’s more decorative than protective, and still means frequent weeding in your gardens.

Recycled Materials

Those with creative minds might be drawn to this idea of ​​using household objects and materials to create a border for your garden bed. Look around your home and garden, you might just find a diamond in the dirt. Some materials that could be recycled as a landscape border consist of terracotta pots, glass bottles, pallets or even ceramic tableware. Since these aren’t very formal edging options, they can be rendered as creatively as you can think of. You could slant them, stack them on top of each other, use a mortar to make them more permanent, maybe even combine a few different objects to create a pattern. The sky’s the limit with recycled materials.

Ultimately, it’s important to remember that the landscape edging material you choose must fit your purposes, style, maintenance preferences, and budget.

We’d love for you to check out two of our most popular landscape edging options – Right Edge and Grass Barrier.

Edge Right is a COR-TEN steel landscape edging sheet with teeth that can be installed without digging. The teeth cut into the ground and can be further fastened with a rubber mallet or mallet. Edge Right ages beautifully – to a rustic patina finish – and only gets better looking with age, unlike other metal products that only rust. Edge Right is also malleable and can be bent around your bed any way you like.

Grass Barrier is a high density recycled HDPE landscape edging that is extremely durable. Although economical, it is no different than other plastic edging products. Aside from its durability, it also penetrates the soil two times deeper than most other products. Also, despite being a stout plastic, it’s still flexible and capable of creating the curves you want, too.

There are gardeners who don’t like lawn edges. They feel that a true gardener should be willing to redefine the boundary every 2 to 3 weeks with a lawn edging tool. More power for them, but I prefer the ease to the repetitive work.

And then there are discerning gardeners who accept a lawn edging as an unfortunate necessity, but only if it’s made of metal. Plastic is just too common. But metal is expensive, plastic is not. Call me plebeian, but I don’t mind the occasional sneer of a gardening snob when I can save a sizable sum and still get good results, so I added plastic edging.

My first plastic-bordered beds are now more than 20 years old and the inexpensive border is still doing well.

The right edge

A gardener looking for a plastic lawn edging faces a dilemma: there are so many models on the market. Which one should he buy?

Despite the various brands’ claims that theirs is stronger, more durable etc., virtually any plastic lawn edging will prove to be strong enough and durable enough, again as long as it is installed correctly.

The most important factor to look for in lawn edging is height. I’ve seen cheap lawn edging that’s only 3 inches high, but grass rhizomes just go right underneath and pop up in your flower bed or vegetable garden: just what you wanted to prevent! 4-inch (10 cm) models are much more common…and also let grass through. Take at least 5 inches (12 cm). 6 inch (15 cm) lawn edging is harder to find but worth it.

Typically, lawn edging is sold in rolls of varying lengths, but there are also hammer-in types, which are made up of small segments that fit together and that you pound into the ground with a rubber mallet. It seems simple enough, but I found them a lot more difficult to install than lawn edging sold in rolls: I kept hitting rocks and rocks and then had to dig in to clear the obstructions. And although they were supposed to go in without digging, I ended up smashing a slit in the ground with my spade to make it easier for me to get them in. Based on this experience, I would only recommend impact types to someone who has really tillable, rock-free soil, certainly not hard clay or rocky soil.

Mount lawn edge

Plastic edging is easier to work with on a relatively warm day: they are usually sold rolled up and try to hold that shape when it’s cool. However, leave it in the sun for an hour or two and it will become more malleable and more easily take the shape you want to give it.

To install a plastic border between a lawn and a garden, insert a spade vertically along the entire lawn edge to a depth equal to the height of the edge and push the soil forward toward the garden, creating a ditch with a vertical one wall on one side and creates a wall with about 45° angle on the other.

Place the edging in the ditch and press it against the vertical wall. The top of the border should be about 1/2 inch above the ground: not so high that the lawn mower would likely hit it, but still high enough to prevent peat grass rhizomes from trying to climb over it.

The next step is the most important… and unfortunately, rarely used. The edging must be attached to the vertical ditch wall or it would loosen over time. In cold climates, that’s doubly true: if you’ve never heard the term “frost hub” before, you’ll quickly learn all about it if your bezel isn’t pinned.

Many edge models have grooves or protrusions that are designed to stabilize them. One would think that the more pronounced these grooves or ridges are, the more effective they would be, but from what I’ve seen, any lawn edge that isn’t staked will eventually move, regardless of the grooves or ridges. I always find it worth securing each edge with pegs.

Many lawn edging model kits include mooring stakes, but I find there are rarely enough of these. Instead of buying extra stakes, a cheap and easy solution is to just buy 6 inch (15 cm) nails. They work just as well as inserts and cost next to nothing.

Installing stakes or nails is a breeze. Simply hammer it horizontally or at a slight downward angle into the edging (which, as mentioned above, is pressed against the vertical wall of the ditch). Insert one approximately every foot (30 cm).

The trench only needs to be filled with earth and tamped down. As simple as that!

Joining two sections together

For a smaller yard, a roll of lawn edging may suffice, but if not, you may need to find a way to tie two sections together.

The connection between two sections must be nearly seamless, otherwise peat grass rhizomes will force their way through the smallest gap and invade your flower bed. Most lawn edging is sold with connectors that are designed to slot into the top of the border or (depending on the model) clip over it. Unfortunately, there still remains a section where the two edges barely touch and the grass can easily break through. How to overcome this:

Cut a 10cm section of top bead (usually a tube) from one of the edge sections. Use the joiner to connect the two sections by overlapping the two edge pieces. This overlap prevents unwanted plants from crossing. To make the connection even stronger, drive a peg or nail through the two sections and into the ditch wall.

And let’s go! Properly laid, the lawn edging will last 20 years or more. But you must install it correctly!

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Frequently asked questions about metal garden edging

What rim height should I use?

As a guide, when edging driveways and paths, we recommend burying half of the edge in the ground. For edging, we recommend burying a third of the edge in the ground.

Therefore, the required visible upstand determines the height of the required edge.

(Our 75mm high edging is generally only recommended for borders).

If in doubt, call us or forward details about your project.

Which thickness should you choose?

We offer two edge thicknesses, 3mm and 6mm. The main attribute of 3mm edging is its flexibility and ability to be bent by hand. So if you want to get extra tight curves and want to form a lot of angles by bending the steel itself, we recommend the 3mm edge.

The rivet and connection system is the same for both thicknesses.

However, our 6mm edge is both sturdier and stiffer, but still capable of accommodating curves. The extra 3mm makes a surprisingly big difference and as we pride ourselves on offering what we believe to be the safest edging system on the market we would recommend 6mm if possible. To quantify the flexibility of our 6mm edge, it can be bent to form a complete circle with a 2.5 meter radius. This is tight enough for most borders with driveways that tend to have even gentler curves.

In cost comparison, our 6mm edge is approximately 12% more expensive than our 3mm edge.

We have summarized the most important differences below:

3mm thick edge

Can be bent manually to form corners with grip angles

Reduced costs

Easier to handle

Supplied in lengths of at least 2 m

6 mm thick edge

More robust

It’s easier to form straight lines

Increased lifespan

Available in 3m length

We are often asked if the 6mm edge forms curves? The answer is yes, it will. The photo above shows a 6mm edge along a curved track achieved with little resistance. As a guide, a 6mm thick edging can comfortably form a complete circle 5 meters in diameter. The 3mm edge can form a circle with a diameter of 2.5 meters. If in doubt please

We would be happy to advise you on both options and make you an offer for both. We are often asked if the 6mm edge forms curves? The answer is yes, it will. The photo above shows a 6mm edge along a curved track achieved with little resistance. As a guide, a 6mm thick edging can comfortably form a complete circle 5 meters in diameter. The 3mm edge can form a circle with a diameter of 2.5 meters. If in doubt, please contact us

What about the corners?

We offer pre-cut corners for sharp 90 degree bends, they come with fasteners to attach seamlessly to the rest of the edge.

There are two corner options. An outside corner for applications where the outside (wide 270 degree angle) is visible, hence the fixings are on the inside (bottom photo). This is most common with raised beds, for example.

An inside corner where the inside face (90 degree angle) is showing, therefore the fasteners will be placed on the open (270 degree) face, see photo below.

Please note that the 3mm thick edge can be bent by hand. We offer corner pieces for those who don’t want to do this and for customers looking for a sharper 90 degree angle than can be achieved by hand.

Order number: inside corner Order number: outside corner

What lengths are there for the edge?

Our 3mm thick edging is available in standard lengths of at least 2 metres. In some areas we can supply 4 meter lengths for bulk orders.

Our 6mm thick edging is available in standard lengths of 3 metres. For large orders we can supply 6 meter lengths. Greater lengths, therefore fewer connections, are generally quicker to install.

What if I need to cut and rejoin the edge?

You can find more information about the corner pieces and connection kits on the

It is easy to rejoin a cut edge, our edges can be cut with a hacksaw although a sander is recommended for the 6mm edge to save time. Cutting the edge removes the welded studs that make up the connection system. So if you need to reconnect a cut end, we recommend using our connection kit. The kit includes all the hardware you need to join the edge. You need a drill. You can find more information about the corner pieces and connection kits on the price list and buying guide page.

Connection kit for reconnecting the ends cut off by the customer

How long does the delivery take?

The delivery time is usually 3 to 4 weeks from receipt of payment. If the order is needed sooner let us know and we will let you know if earlier dispatch is possible.

How do I order?

We always provide you with a handwritten offer for approval prior to purchase. To do this, you can simply call us with your requirements or fill out the quote form on the same day.

How do you deliver my order?

We use self-employed couriers for most orders. Whilst this results in us subsidizing part of most supplies, it allows us to avoid load restrictions imposed by larger companies, allowing us to supply longer lengths for easier customer installation. We’ve also found this to be a more reliable means of delivery while also supporting small businesses. As a result, your edge will be unloaded by hand. Therefore please indicate if you intend to move the edge mechanically and place your delivery on carriers.

How long does it take for the edge to turn brown?

Your edge will arrive “fresh” with little or no rust. It takes 6 to 9 months for the steel to fully weather.

How long does the steel edge last?

There are factors that affect the lifespan of steel edging, but as a guide our 6mm edge will last 25+ years and the 3mm edge will last 20+ years.

Does the metal edge need maintenance?

No, that’s really not the case, and we generally advise against painting our edges simply because we feel the steel should look like steel and the weathered brown patina is a desirable feature. Painting introduces a maintenance element as it would need to be done every few years.

What type of steel are our edges made of?

Our edges are usually made of mild steel. We can supply both corten garden edging and stainless steel edging. Please inquire about the prices for these.

At what height should the edging be laid when used as a lawn edging?

In most cases, it is recommended to install the edging at ground level so that the layer of grass extends above the edging, which allows the grass edging to be trimmed with edge trimmers or a grass trimmer.

When should edging be installed during a landscaping project?

When it comes to landscape edging, there are two ideal ways to lay our edging. Either at an early stage during ground work when driveways and paths have been excavated but before any sub-grade has been laid the edging is then used to get hardcore/type 1 etc and the levels built up within the ledge this gives a clear framework and levels on which to work. Alternatively, later after laying the hard concrete layer, the edge should be set into the hard concrete layer, so it is advisable to do this before compacting so that a shallow scratch can be easily created. The hard core can then be compacted and the final surface laid. We recommend building ground levels on both sides of the ledge during construction to prevent heavy machinery such as vibratory rollers from putting a lot of pressure on one side of the ledge with little support from behind.

When trimming new borders and it is advisable to do this before planting. New lawns should ideally be hemmed before final ground leveling (raking) as the steel can be used as a guide for ground levels.

Garden edging is a fundamental part of any landscape design and is often overlooked or thought about. We spend hours choosing our patio or pathway pavers, weeks deciding which retaining wall best suits the space, hundreds of dollars on mulch and pebbles to cover the gardens, but only moments to decide what keeps everything in place!

Customers will often ask, “What’s your very best edging?!” and well, the answer to that is just about anything you want! When it comes to garden edging the sky is the limit and you don’t have to stick to what is marketed for the purpose. In the next few blog posts, we’ll give you some ideas to get you started!

Here at Centenary Landscaping Supplies we have many options to suit all applications but remember, don’t be bound by convention and you are sure to find the perfect garden edging product for your design.

Wood is simply at the top of the list. Many will tend to avoid this option, perhaps unnecessarily. A common misconception is that all wood will rot once it gets into the garden; and this can be the case if the wrong wood is used. When choosing your wood, make sure you choose a treated product (CCA is the most common and best performing treatment method). Frame wood or rougher headers are not recommended as the treatment will be inferior (for above ground use only). Likewise, fence timbers such as fence posts and railings are generally only treated in this way.

We recommend our treated pine garden edging when looking for wood suitable for ground use throughout the garden. Pine is an easy edging and an economical option, perfect when a feature isn’t needed in your garden edging. Use hardwood stakes to hold everything in place and you’ll have a solid rim for years to come.

If you’re looking for something sturdier, you can always use treated hardwood or pine sleepers. Again, CCA is the most commonly used treatment modality, but you can also use the ACQ Treated variety for sufferers. Thresholds are great for a more solid and substantial garden edging option and a great new product on the market is the Retain-iT products. These add a whole new dimension and affordability to both edge and threshold walls. The Retain-iT range includes a great ‘ground spike’ option for 1 sleeper uprights.

An easy option for garden edging without wood would be precast concrete. Similar to the bordering products that can be formed on site by heavy machinery, the precast variety is a simple, clean and quick option for edging your gardens without the hassle of on site machinery and tradesmen. Available in a range of standard lengths, both round and square corners and curves, you can effortlessly edge all types of gardens with unusual shapes.

Now that the default options are out of the way, it’s time to discuss a few more designer options. Keep an eye out for a new article coming soon.

Disclosure: We may receive commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

Rubber garden edging is a great option when it comes to your garden and flower bed as it ranks high in some categories and lower in others. It’s not as durable as metal, but it will certainly last longer than plastic. Because of its malleability, you’re more likely to find it in a variety of shapes and designs than metal edges, and it’s very flexible, making it easy for you to use it in many different ways and shape it to suit your unique needs.

Rubber garden edging also comes in the widest range of edgings with many different shapes, colors and sizes. You can buy it in brick shapes that you can stack, you can buy whole strips that you just lay down how you want them to sit, you can even buy rubber bark in different colors.

When thinking about the different types of edging and what to use in your own landscape, there are just a few things to consider.

Types of rubber edges

Once you understand more about the different types of edging, you can make more informed purchasing decisions that will help you make your landscape the best it can be! Let’s go through some of the different types of rubber garden edging.

Rubber curb

Curb is exactly what it sounds like. Rubber edging that looks like the curb that usually borders a sidewalk.

Just as curbs come in many shapes, so there are rubber curbs. There are brands with rounded edges, more “L” shaped options to help you avoid hitting them with your lawn mower, and most of the different types of rubber garden edging have been made from recycled materials so you can feel good about your purchase from a green perspective.

Speaking of green, green is one of the many colors that rubber edging comes in, so you really can find something to go with whatever color scheme you want to work with. Also available in brick red, brown, black and a range of other colors, you’ll not only find the colors you’re looking for, but also a shape to complement your landscape.

Click here to buy rubber curbs on Amazon.

crumb

Rubber crumb borders are a wonderful alternative to garden borders for a number of reasons. When it comes to edging that isn’t made of harder materials like wood or stone, you have to worry about damage, especially damage that occurs naturally with lawn maintenance.

Edgers that use string are ironically incredibly effective at damaging edges, which is unfortunate when it comes to rubber. Once the cord cuts through the surface and penetrates any sealant or treatment that may have gone through the outside to protect it from the elements, its useful life diminishes.

Rubber crumb edges are resistant to damage from edgers who use string because of their thick, uneven surface. They’re a great option when using this type of edger, and of course they’re resistant to other types of damage as well. If you have areas of heavier traffic, be it the feet of potentially unwary children or drivers with questionable parking skills, this is a great option for you!

You can purchase this product online, but for the most part it only ships from locations outside the United States, so be mindful of shipping costs when placing an order.

Click here to buy rubber crumb rim online.

Roman stone

Roman Stone rubber edging is a type of rubber edging that looks like stone. Whether it is brick or a more natural looking type of stone, you will generally be able to find it as some form of Roman stone rubber edging.

Roman Stone rubber edging is probably your best choice for a decorative rubber edging. Many different types of rubber edging serve a functional purpose rather than a functional and decorative one. So if you want a rubber edging that will help enhance the aesthetics you are building for your garden, go for a Roman stone edging.

Roman stone surrounds may look like individual bricks or stones made out of rubber, but they are not. Although this type of edging looks like smaller, lonely building materials, it generally comes in strips, just like the rest of rubber edging. The length of these strips is entirely dependent on the manufacturer, but the average length is several feet, so read the included instructions carefully before purchasing. People generally don’t buy enough instead of buying too much.

Click here to shop this Home Depot Roman Stone Edging.

stomp edge

Stomp edging is incredibly easy to install, making them highly desirable for those who want a border for their lawn, garden, or flower bed but don’t want to spend a lot of time installing them. How easy is it to install you ask? So easy. You drop it where you want it, stomp on it and you’re done.

Stomp edges are the average size of a brick and come in chunks rather than strips like bricks. It has a concave end and a convex end, making it easy to put together the look you want and clear about how you do it. With concave and convex ends, it doesn’t matter if you want a straight line or lots of curves, you can pull off your look with the same pieces and effort.

Made from recycled rubber and easiest to find in brown or black, the Stomp Edge is a quick, convenient and attractive way to add a border to your landscape.

flat roll

One of the best things about rubber edging is the propensity to name them after their appearance or installation. flat roll? It’s a flat roll of rubber edging that you can roll out wherever you want! It comes in a variety of types and colors, making it easy to find the type that best suits your garden or flower bed.

Flat rolled edges are flat unlike the other types of landscape edges we’ve discussed. It is not raised and not particularly decorative, which seems to be more of a disadvantage. But it actually has its own unique benefits!

Shallow rolled edges are one of the few edges that will block and prevent weeds from growing underneath, not just affecting a plant’s ability to get from side to side. This means that you can install it, for example, in the gaps under your fence to prevent weeds from entering your garden from your neighbor. You can also cut it and place it as a kind of ground cover for your flower bed if you want to prevent weeds from growing out completely.

Many types of these flat curled edges are perforated, much like stacked bark, that allow water and air to get to the base of established plants that you have but aren’t strong enough to let anything grow through.

Click here to buy a flat rolled edge on Amazon.

Decorative edges

There aren’t many options for decorative rubber edging, and the few that exist aren’t sold by Amazon, so you’ll have to go to other sources if that’s what you really want. That being said, we can recommend one to start your search! Click here to buy the decorative rubber edging in the image above.

tree ring

If you could find a rubber edging that was even easier to install than a flat roll, it would be the tree ring edging. It’s perfect for trees (shocking), bushes and other established plants that you don’t want weeds to grow around.

Click here to buy one on Amazon.

Pros and cons of rubber edging

If you compare rubber, stone, metal, and plastic edges, rubber probably falls somewhere in the middle.

advantages

Pretty inexpensive

Made from recycled materials

Effective against weeds

Variety of types and colors

Fairly cold and heat resistant.

Disadvantages

Can be damaged by common garden tools

Will eventually crack or erode

It can be difficult to find a specific strain online

Damage to most types of edges is quite noticeable and difficult to hide

How much does a rubber edge cost?

It all depends on what kind you get and how much of it you order. For example, you can find a fairly durable tree ring for around $30, but you can also order a huge batch of stepping edges for several hundred dollars.

You’ll need to decide what kind you like, how much it is, and how much of it you need before you have a good estimate of how much money you’ll end up spending.

Manage your pumpkins with these rubber edges!

How do you install rubber edges?

Since there are several different types, there is no specific way to install them all. But rest assured, it’s all easy, regardless of the type, and this video will give you an idea of ​​the total effort involved.

1. Contrast

Can you see the grass on the other side of the fence is brown and dying? In the event that weeds or something growing there kills the grass, the flat rolled edge prevents them from entering your lawn and killing your grass. It’s perfect for the gap under fences or any other area where you’re trying to stop weeds from growing.

2. Stone Age

This Roman stone surround is one of the most realistic stone surrounds or surrounds you can find if you’re looking for something that looks like brick but isn’t. It comes in strips so you don’t have to buy each gum stone individually when you buy it.

This particular edge has a color that complements and highlights the colors on both sides very well without standing out while adding a very firm barrier between the two and shaking up the textures a bit.

3. Stand up straight

Decorative borders can do a lot for your garden, showcasing the plants behind them while providing something to look at. Although decorative rubber borders or borders aren’t very common, you can’t deny the charm of this particular flower bed.

Although you can see that this particular edge isn’t incredibly smooth as its stone counterpart would be, its rougher finish offers more protection from the sun, wind, and lawn or garden tools that could scratch, cut, or break it. what you have to consider with rubber edges.

4. Curbs

This particular image illustrates one of the benefits of curbs. Due to the curvature on the lawn side of the edging, you can use the lawnmower to cut the grass and the mower will not scratch or cut the edging.

This is a desirable trait for rubber garden edging because if you are unable to trim all of the grass around the edge, you will most likely trim off the last bit of grass with an edger, which has a high chance of damaging your border to damage.

If that’s something you know you’re going to worry about, and you know at least part of your rubber edging will be on the side of grass, consider a curb! It will surely make lawn care less stressful and a lot easier.

5. Elegance

This curb features a longer slope that adds a certain elegance to the flower bed as it gently draws your gaze to the white rocks and flowers. The rougher finish gives it a pleasing, slightly organic feel without detracting from the stone look it mimics.

6. Round imprint

There are a number of reasons to put a tree ring around your tree. It will kill the weeds and grass underneath which means they won’t soak up the water meant for the tree, it will help prevent erosion of the soil at the trunk that could occur if you water it habitually in places, and it can help hide any misshapen soil that may still be there when you planted the tree.

7. Lay rubber garden edging

The woman in this picture appears to be laying a flat curled edge to create a barrier between the grass and her flower bed. This will help prevent the grass from encroaching on the flower bed and taking up valuable space and water that should flow to the flowers.

It will also pave the way for the woman to use a more decorative version of the edging later as the grass is dead and she has a clear outline where to perfectly place a more aesthetically pleasing edging of her choice.

8. Rise and Fall

This image is a great example of one of the few types of decorative edging actually available on Amazon. If you’re looking for a different, more complicated way, you’ll have to try other websites and stores, which can be inconvenient.

That said, there is beauty in simplicity, and you don’t always have to look for something more complicated or originally aesthetically pleasing to make your landscape attractive.

This particular decorative edge is nothing special, but the light color contrasts nicely with the greens on one side and blends well with the browns on the other.

9. Versatility

Not only do rubber roller surrounds have to be used as a barrier, they can also be used to kill what’s already underneath. No, it’s not toxic, but it completely blocks the sun from nourishing your plants. Without the sun, the plants die and you have a strip of soil to reuse.

For example, let’s say you want to plant flowers along the side of your fence, but are afraid that if you just try to dig up the grass, the grass will grow back in awkward spots at awkward times. You can lay down a flat rolling edge, then kill grass, then plant in that area!

10. Natural stone

Do you prefer a more natural stone look without the hassle of lugging around lots of heavy stones, stacking them to the best of your ability and either hoping they stay there or trying to cement them together?

Well, if that incredibly specific description fits you then there is a product that fits the style and effort you are looking for.

While not the easiest of the options available, decorative rubber edging can offer you some unique opportunities that will really make your landscape shine.

Try this garden edging tool in your front yard!

Natural stone edging is a proven way to separate the spaces in your garden. The pieces are solid quarry pieces that are generally 4 to 6 inches thick and very sturdy. About two inches will be sunk into the ground and two inches will remain above ground to hold rocks or mulch in the planting bed. When a mower is buried at this depth, it can easily maneuver around the edge, eliminating the need for trimming. Another great benefit of natural stone edging is that it can be easily picked up and reattached when the bed size changes or when it needs to be moved for utility purposes. The coloring of natural stone generally improves with age due to weathering.

Natural stone is usually laid with an edge milling machine or with an edge spade. The cost of a natural stone edging after installation is generally around $5 per linear foot.

As you can see, there are several options to consider when implementing edging in your space. Cost can be a big factor, but you should also consider the longevity and quality of the product you are considering investing in. ASPM Landscapes offers innovative products and excellent customer service. We are happy to help you choose the best product for your space!