How to Edge Trees & Flower Beds

Measure the amount of space you need from the tree or flower beds to the grass. If you are growing a seedling, allow enough space for the tree's roots to be unaffected by competing grass. To determine where the tree roots lie under the ground, look underneath the drip line of the seedling where their roots normally end.

Place a stake in the soil where you want to start your flower bed edging. Tie a string or rope around the stake. Place stakes along the proposed border. Decide if you want a natural border that follows the flow of the garden bed or a crisp, straight look. Tie the string to each stake.

For trees, measure out from the tree and place your stakes in a circle around the trunk. Make sure all stakes are the same distance from the tree.

Measure your edging material. Use a moon edger to create a trench the same depth as your edging material. If you use rocks to create a border, make your trench varying depths.

Place a leveler at the bottom of the trench to ensure the bottom is flat. Add or take away dirt, so the bottom is flat. Use a spade to shape the trench to your bricks or other edging material.

Place your edging material at the bottom of the trench. Fill cracks with dirt. Fill the space between the border and plant with mulch.