What Machine Should be Used to Cut a Border on Flower Beds

Edgers

• Edgers are "blades on a stick," with a sharp cutting blade mounted on the side of a gearbox that either rotates the blade or moves two blades like an electric knife. Their primary purpose is to edge along walks and lawns, so they will work for edging all but the largest beds or where cultivation is needed in addition to edging. Edgers are not very maneuverable; they work best when cutting straight lines or wide curves. Edgers are available in electric or gas-powered models and are one machine that might prove more economical to own than to rent because of their usefulness in edging walks.

Rototiller

• Compact machines that resemble an over-built lawn mower are garden tillers or cultivators. They sport a series of curved cutting blades that dig into the soil and break it up. Blades are often visible on lightweight tillers because they are mounted in front of the axle. Heavy duty "rear tyne" tillers' blades are covered by a protective baffle to keep blades away from the operator's feet. Gardeners who are starting a new bed often choose tillers because they cultivate the ground as well as tear up grass. They leave neat edges, but the soil will need inspection and raking to remove stones and plants. Some lightweight "mini" tillers are powered by electricity, but most are gas powered.

Small Trenchers

• Trenchers operate single rotary blades or a set of blades on a chain that dig slots for a variety of projects, including French drains, irrigation pipes and pet fences. A small trencher with an adjustable single 12-inch blade can cut a trench as shallow as 5 or 6 inches deep -- just deep enough to sever all of the roots. The machine, which consists of a long body to carry the engine, cutting box and discharge chute, is pulled slowly along the border. Even small trenchers are heavy machines, and large machines require special training for safe operation. After trenching is completed, the turf on the bed side of the trench must be dug out and removed. Trenchers have gas engines.

Sod Cutter

• Pulling a horizontal blade through the sod at a depth of a few inches, sod cutters vibrate and cut the roots of the sod as it is pushed along in a straight line by its operator. Sod rolls up easily, leaving a clean edge with few remaining rhizomes to remove. Sod cutters are heavy, gas-powered machines that require a strong pair of arms and shoulders to operate. Rental companies may also offer manual sod cutters that are less expensive to rent but which require more physical effort.