Decorative garden edging does far more than separate lawn from beds — it creates visual order, prevents grass invasion, defines garden rooms, and adds a polished, professional finish to any landscape. The right edging transforms a good garden into a great one.
Benefits of Proper Edging:
- Creates clean, defined lines between lawn and beds
- Prevents grass and weeds from invading garden beds
- Contains mulch and soil within planting areas
- Reduces maintenance by eliminating hand-trimming
- Adds visual structure and professional appearance
- Defines pathways and garden room boundaries
- Increases property value and curb appeal
- Protects plants from mower and trimmer damage
Edging Materials Compared
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Steel Edging
The professional's choice for clean, permanent borders. Steel edging creates razor-sharp lines that last decades. Available in raw steel (develops rust patina), powder-coated colors, and corten steel. Flexible enough for curves yet rigid enough to hold shape. Premium option at $3-8 per linear foot.
Aluminum Edging
Lightweight, rust-proof, and easy to install. Aluminum bends easily for curves and won't corrode in wet conditions. Available in various colors and finishes. More affordable than steel at $2-5 per linear foot. Excellent for DIY installation.
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Natural Stone
Timeless beauty with unmatched durability. Flagstone, cobblestone, and granite create elegant borders that complement any garden style. Labor-intensive to install but lasts generations. Costs vary widely based on stone type and local availability.
Brick and Pavers
Classic choice for traditional and cottage gardens. Bricks can be laid flat, on edge, or in decorative patterns. Pavers offer more color and shape options. Requires proper base preparation for stability. Moderate cost with high visual impact.
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Plastic and Composite
Most affordable option at $0.50-2 per linear foot. Modern composites mimic stone or wood convincingly. Easy DIY installation with flexible strips or interlocking sections. Quality varies significantly — choose UV-stabilized products for longevity.
Wood and Timber
Natural warmth suits cottage and rustic gardens. Cedar and redwood resist rot naturally. Pressure-treated pine is more affordable but less attractive. Requires replacement every 5-15 years depending on climate and wood type.
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Matching Edging to Garden Style:
- Formal gardens: Crisp steel or aluminum with geometric lines
- Cottage gardens: Brick, stone, or weathered wood with soft curves
- Modern landscapes: Black steel or corten with clean angles
- Natural gardens: Irregular stone or hidden plastic edging
- Mediterranean: Terracotta tiles or warm-toned pavers
- Japanese gardens: Natural stone or bamboo borders
- Contemporary: Powder-coated metal in bold colors
Step-by-Step Installation:
- Mark your border line with garden hose or spray paint
- Cut a clean edge along the line with a half-moon edger
- Dig a trench 4-6 inches deep along the border
- Level the trench bottom for consistent edging height
- Place edging in trench with top at desired height above soil
- Secure with stakes every 3-4 feet (for metal/plastic)
- Backfill trench and compact soil firmly against edging
- Add mulch to bed side and maintain lawn edge
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Straight Lines
Create formal, structured appearance. Easier to install and maintain. Work best with geometric garden designs and modern architecture. Use string lines during installation for perfect alignment.
Curved Lines
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Add natural flow and visual interest. Soften hard architectural lines. Create the illusion of larger spaces. Require flexible edging materials. Use a garden hose to preview curves before committing.
Keep Borders Looking Sharp:
- Re-cut lawn edges 2-3 times per season with half-moon edger
- Check metal edging stakes annually and reset if loose
- Remove grass runners that cross over edging
- Top up mulch to maintain clean bed appearance
- Clean stone and brick edging with pressure washer annually
- Treat wood edging with preservative every 2-3 years
- Replace damaged plastic sections promptly
- Adjust edging height if soil settles over time
Recommended Garden Edging Products
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These quality edging products create beautiful, lasting borders:
Recommended Products
Dimex EasyFlex Aluminum Landscape Edging
$49.99
PROS
- Flexible for curves
- Rust-proof aluminum
- Includes stakes
CONS
- Visible above ground
- Can bend if stepped on
Coyote Landscape Products Steel Edging (20 ft)
$89.99
PROS
- Professional grade quality
- Develops beautiful patina
- Extremely durable
CONS
- Requires more effort to install
- Sharp edges during handling
Suncast Border Stone Edging (10 Pack)
$29.99
PROS
- Easy snap-together installation
- Realistic stone appearance
- Very affordable
CONS
- Can shift over time
- Less durable than real stone
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Frequently Asked Questions
How deep should garden edging be installed?
Most edging should be buried 4-6 inches deep with 1-2 inches visible above ground. This depth prevents grass roots from growing underneath while keeping the edging stable. For stone or brick edging, a 4-inch gravel base beneath provides drainage and stability.
What is the best edging to prevent grass from spreading?
Steel and aluminum edging are most effective at stopping grass runners because they create a continuous underground barrier. Ensure edging is buried at least 4 inches deep. Plastic edging works if installed properly but may shift over time, creating gaps.
How do I edge around trees without damaging roots?
Keep edging at least 2-3 feet from tree trunks to avoid root damage. Use flexible materials that can curve around the root zone. Install shallowly (2-3 inches) near trees where roots are close to the surface. Never cut through major roots.
Can I install metal edging myself?
Yes, aluminum edging is very DIY-friendly. Steel edging requires more effort due to its rigidity but is still manageable. Use heavy gloves when handling steel edges. Rent a trenching tool for easier installation. Most homeowners can complete 50-100 feet in a weekend.
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Written by
Emma Davis
Landscape designer and garden border specialist with 14 years of experience creating beautifully defined outdoor spaces using various edging materials and techniques.