Garden Edging Solutions
Garden edging creates a neat, trim appearance and serves a functional purpose in the backyard, saving labor by keeping grass out of flower beds and garden areas. Edging also will help prevent erosion, keeping mulch and soil in place during a heavy rain. Some types of edging are more elaborate, including a decorative element into the lawn. The best edging for you depends on your budget, style and how handy you’re.
Cut Edge
A cut border, which requires just a sharp spade or an edger, is the simplest edging technique and works with almost any landscaping style or layout. Once established, a cut border does not need much maintenance, but it looks best if it is re-cut occasionally to keep the edges sharp and to avoid grasses and weeds from rooting in the cut. Because no substances are required, it’s simple to expand gardens and flower beds.
Hard Plastic and Metal
Metal and plastic edging generally comes in strips using a curved top edge. The edging is buried in the ground so that just the curved edge is visible. Metal stakes, which you drive in the base of the edging, keep it in place. It’s especially useful for edging a curved flower bed since it is flexible. The cost, difficulty of installation and appearance of plastic and metal edging varies. The edging isn’t particularly attractive but it isn’t noticeable when installed properly. Although metal lasts longer than plastic, this type of edging has limited effectiveness. Grass often rises above the edging, as well as the edging may eventually work its way from the ground.
Wood
Wood edging includes railroad ties, logs, landscaping timbers or conventional building lumber like two-by-fours. Wood edging has a weathered appearance, which is appropriate for a casual garden. Since wood edging isn’t flexible, it does not work for beds that are curved. Bury wood edging so the top is even with the ground to eliminate the need for cutting, or use railroad ties to create raised beds. Although wood finally decays, it should last for many years. Some forests, including cedar and redwood, are more resistant to moisture damage and decay, but they also carry a hefty price tag.
Flat Pavers and Bricks
Available in several styles, colours, sizes and shapes, flat pavers and bricks make attractive, durable edging for a casual or casual landscape. They are useful for straight-edged beds or gentle curves. Because they are usually installed within a bed of sand, bricks and scoop stop grass roots from escaping and upkeep is minimal. Pavers and bricks are versatile and, when installed flush with the ground, it’s possible to safely mow the grass beside the pavers without damaging the mower. When laid on their sides, bricks and pavers can be organized in an interesting sawtooth pattern.
Concrete
Concrete is durable, lasting several years. Once installed flush with the ground, you can mow over concrete, eliminating the need for cutting. Since concrete is permanent, it is just a good alternative should youn’t plan to modify the design of your lawn. Concrete tends to be relatively expensive since it has to be professionally installed.