Can I Drill Holes in Black Plastic Landscaping Edging?

Benefits

• Because the material is flexible, black plastic edging is frequently used to line flowerbeds, so you can easily mold it around curved beds. The edging preserves a smooth, even line and mimics the look of more expensive rubber edging. Installed after you freshly cut the edge of your bed, the device provides support for the soil and mulch, preventing collapse. Because the edging blocks light and covers the soil, it helps prevent grasses and weeds from establishing themselves along the cut edge of your flowerbeds.

Support

• Black plastic edging is often used because the material is inexpensive, but the Utah State University Extension warns that this type of edging tends to lose its shape as time passes. By drilling holes in the edging, you can attach it to stakes in areas where established sections of edging sag and additional support is needed, or drill the holes before you install the material to provide added support from the start, preventing future problems.

Drainage

• Flowerbeds that have mounded soil that angles down toward edging materials may wash soil and mulch over the top of the edging, creating a channel behind the material that will catch and hold water. Holes drilled in your edging will help drain away this standing water, which is important not only for the appearance of your flowerbeds but also because many plants cannot tolerate standing water around their root systems. Too much water can lead to fungal diseases and root rot, which can disfigure or kill your plants.

Installation

• Proper installation of your edging will prevent it from developing problems. The Renegade Gardener website includes several tips for creating a long-lasting and appealing edge to your flowerbeds. Install your edging with the "V" side facing towards your flowerbed. Set the material so that only the upper half to one-third of the circle at the top of the edging is visible, which keeps the material below mower level and makes it less visible as you want to see your landscaping, not your edging. Water in the edging to settle the soil.