Ask Roger: Using Landscape Edging

Landscape edging is necessary for creating well-defined and visually appealing outdoor spaces. It serves as a boundary between different areas of your yard, such as lawns and flower beds, preventing grass from encroaching on garden spaces and maintaining clean lines in your landscape design. 

In the video above, This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook explores various edging options and installation methods, providing valuable insights for homeowners looking to enhance their outdoor areas.

Types of Landscape Edging

When it comes to landscape edging, homeowners have several options. Each edging style has its own benefits and aesthetic appeal, letting you select the best fit for your landscape design and maintenance needs.

Plastic Edging

Plastic edging is a popular choice for homeowners because it is affordable and easy to install. However, several drawbacks make it less ideal for long-term use. It can be challenging to install and keep straight, is susceptible to frost heave, and may become brittle over time. Additionally, its appearance can be unappealing, which may detract from the landscape overall.

While plastic edging may seem like a cost-effective solution, its drawbacks often outweigh its benefits. As Roger demonstrates in the video, plastic edging can be frustrating to work with and may require frequent reinstallation due to winter freeze-thaw cycles.

Cobblestone and Brick Edging

Cobblestone or brick edging is an excellent choice for homeowners looking for a more attractive and durable option. It can be installed in various patterns and designs, allowing customization. Additionally, it’s resistant to frost heave and other weather-related issues, making it a reliable option for maintaining the outdoor spaces’ integrity over time.

You can lay cobblestone and brick edging flat or stood on end, depending on your preference and the look you want for your landscape. When installed properly, these materials create a sturdy and attractive border between different areas of your yard.

Steel Edging

Steel edging is popular for homeowners seeking a sleek and nearly invisible solution. It offers several advantages, including easy installation in a shallow trench and a clean, modern look that blends seamlessly into the landscape. Once installed, steel edging is virtually undetectable, providing a subtle definition to garden beds and pathways. Additionally, it is highly durable and resistant to weather-related damage, making it a long-lasting option for outdoor spaces.

Steel edging is an excellent choice for those who want to maintain clean lines in their landscape without drawing attention to the edging itself. As Roger shows in the video, steel edging can be quickly installed and secured with stakes for a long-lasting solution.

Natural Edging

For a more organic approach, natural edging using an edging tool can be an effective and low-maintenance option. This method involves creating an air space between the lawn and the planting bed, which helps prevent grass from spreading into garden areas.

Natural edging requires no additional materials, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Easy to maintain with regular trimming, natural edging provides a cost-effective solution, especially for budget-conscious homeowners who want to keep their outdoor spaces looking tidy and well-defined.

While natural edging may require more frequent maintenance than other options, it provides a clean and natural-looking border between different areas of your yard.

Tools Required for Landscape Edging

You’ll need the following tools for this job:

• Lawn edger
• Rubber mallet
• Small sledgehammer

Installing Landscape Edging

The installation process varies depending on the type of edging you choose. Understanding the nuances of installing various edging materials can help you achieve professional-looking results.

Installing Cobblestone or Brick Edging

To install cobblestone or brick edging:

1. Dig a shallow trench along the desired edging line
2. Place the cobblestones or bricks in the trench, either flat or on the edge
3. Use a rubber mallet to tap the stones into place
4. Adjust as needed to create smooth curves or straight lines
5. Backfill with soil or concrete for added stability

For a more secure installation, consider backfilling with concrete to prevent the edging from shifting over time. Cobblestone and brick offer a sturdy and decorative boundary that complements various landscape designs.

Installing Steel Edging

To install steel edging:

1. Dig a shallow trench along the desired edging line
2. Place the steel edging in the trench
3. Use a small sledgehammer to drive steel stakes through the edging and into the ground
4. Adjust the edging as needed to create smooth curves or straight lines
5. Backfill with soil to cover the stakes and secure the edging in place

Steel edging is particularly effective for creating clean, modern lines in your landscape design. Its low profile will not detract from the visual appeal of your garden and lawn area.

Creating Natural Edging

To create natural edging:

1. Use a lawn edger or spade to cut a clean line between the lawn and the planting bed
2. Remove excess grass and soil to create a small trench
3. Slope the edge of the lawn slightly away from the planting bed
4. Maintain the edge regularly by trimming grass and redefining the line as needed

Natural edging requires frequent maintenance but offers your landscape a seamless, organic look. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t require additional materials, making it an excellent choice for those prioritizing costs.

Maintenance and Care of Landscape Edging

Proper maintenance is incredibly important for keeping your landscape edging looking its best and functioning effectively. Regular care will help prevent grass and weeds from encroaching on your garden beds and maintain the clean lines of your landscape design.

Regular Trimming and Edging

Regardless of your chosen edging type, regular trimming and edging are necessary to maintain a neat appearance. Use a string trimmer or manual edging tool to keep grass from growing over the edging material or into planting beds.

Inspecting and Repairing Edging

Periodically inspect your edging for signs of damage or shifting. Check for loose stones and reset them as needed for brick or cobblestone edging. Steel edging may require occasional straightening or restaking if it becomes bent or loose.

Cleaning and Weeding

Remove debris and weeds that may accumulate along the border. This will improve your landscaping’s appearance and help prevent damage to the edging material.

Choosing the Right Edging for Your Landscape

When selecting landscape edging, consider the following factors:

• Your landscape design and overall visual goals
• The level of maintenance you’re willing to perform
• Your material and installation budget
• Your local climate and weather conditions
• The specific needs of your garden and lawn areas

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can choose the edging solution that best fits your needs.

Enhancing the Aesthetic Appeal and Functionality of Your Landscape

Your edging materials, design, and installation methods all contribute to creating a cohesive look that complements the rest of your garden.

Integrating Edging With Landscape Design

Integrating your chosen edging with your landscape design involves considering the existing elements in your yard. Cobblestone and brick edging work well with traditional and rustic designs, while steel edging suits modern and minimalist landscapes. 

Benefits of Effective Edging

Effective landscape edging offers more than just visual benefits. It helps contain mulch and soil within garden beds, prevents lawn grass from invading planting areas, and provides a clear boundary for footpaths and driveways. Investing in quality edging and proper installation can minimize maintenance and enjoy a well-organized outdoor space.

Combining Edging Materials

In some cases, combining different edging materials can produce unique results. For instance, using steel edging for straight lines and cobblestone for curved areas can create a dynamic and exciting landscape design. Mixing materials allows you to take advantage of the strengths of each type, providing durability and beauty.