How to Install Landscape Edging: Step-by-Step Guide & Expert Tips

Clean, straight lines can make a lawn's appearance go from "good" to "great." Getting these clean lines through landscape edging is a relatively easy home improvement project. Here's what you need to know about installing landscape edging to take your yard to the next level.

What is Landscape Edging?

Landscape edging, also called garden edging, is the creation of a clean line or barrier between two elements of a yard, most often a garden and the surrounding grass lawn. Edging can be as simple as using a shovel to clear out a small natural border between lawn and garden (natural edging), although plenty of property owners use materials like natural stone and metal to create unique borders.

Why is Landscape Edging Important?

Landscape edging projects can:

• Improve curb appeal
• Boost property value
• Keep mulch and sod off walkways
• Reduce soil erosion
• Make mowing easier by clearly marking garden borders
• Prevent weeds from spreading to flower beds

What is the Best Way to Install Landscape Edging? DIY Guide

Before You Get Started

1. Decide on the type of edging you want. Your options include metal edging, plastic edging, brick edging, as well as natural edging or "shovel edging" for edging that does not use dedicated edging products (just a shovel) to create a clear line between the garden and the surrounding lawn.
2. Choose the right time. Soil can be easier to work with depending on weather patterns and seasons; make sure you choose a time when it is more moist, such as spring.
3. Get necessary permits and permissions. Depending on your municipality or if you are part of an HOA, you may find that there are restrictions on the types of garden borders you can install, or you may need permits before you can begin.
4. Decide if you want to do it yourself. If this is your first time edging or doing any major outdoor improvement project, consider whether you have the time and resources to complete this project yourself.

What You'll Need

A shovel or spade will be necessary for all types of garden bed edging projects. If you decide to go beyond natural edging, you may also need the following:

• Tamper
• Pieces of edging materials (steel edging, paver edging, etc.)
• Mallet
• Stakes
• Measuring tape

DIY Natural Edging Installation

The exact process for edging in your garden may look a little different, but the basic steps for installing natural landscape edging using only a shovel are as follows:

1. Mark the area: Clearly mark the area you want to edge with the tip of your shovel, digging vertically into the soil at least 3 inches.
2. Cut the trench: Once you have outlined the border of your edging with your shovel, go back along the border with your shovel and stand in the garden bed, facing out to your lawn. This time, instead of driving your shovel straight down into the soil, cut it at a 45-degree angle to create a V-shaped border or trench.
3. Level the trench: Once you have created your V-shaped trench, it's time to level it using the flat end of your shovel to create a more uniform look.
4. Clean up: Remove the sod and any nearby weeds.

Top 3 Edging Tips from Award-winning Landscapers

1. Pick the right time to edge, such as during spring, when the soil is easier to work with. If possible, wait until after rainfall so that the soil is moist.
2. Re-do the edging at least once a year to keep everything looking clean and well-kept.
3. Angle your tools at 45 degrees when cutting your trench to achieve a cleaner look.

Landscape Edging Installation FAQs

What are common mistakes when edging?

At Poynter Landscape Architecture & Construction, some of the most common mistakes we see homeowners make when installing landscape edging are:

• Not marking the area deep enough; when first marking the edge of your border with your shovel, go vertically about 3 to 4 inches. Anything less can result in a less clean, less effective border.
• Not clearing away debris, leaving weeds and grass free to grow towards your garden.
• Installing edging when the soil is dry and crumbly, rather than soft and moist.

What do you put under landscape edging?

To ensure better drainage and a more stable foundation for non-natural edging (i.e., using edging materials like brick), you can tamp the area down before applying a few inches of crushed gravel and then a little bit of sand.

Is lawn edging easy to install yourself?

Yes, lawn edging is relatively easy to install yourself with a shovel.

What tools and materials are needed to install landscape edging?

Many homeowners use a shovel or spade when installing landscape or garden edging. More complex projects may require a tamper, edging materials like metal edging, crushed gravel, and sand.

Can I hire professional landscapers to install landscaping edging on my property?

Yes. Poynter Landscape Architecture & Construction offers expert services that help property owners like you achieve cleaner, healthier outdoor spaces with less maintenance. Reach out to schedule a consultation and learn how our professional landscape edging installation can help you transform your outdoor space.