Home Garden

How to Cut a Trench in My Lawn

Gardeners cut trenches in their lawns for a variety of reasons: some want a lasting trench around their garden to divert water and create a visual accent, while others need a temporary trench to lay electrical wires or pipes underground. The method of trench-digging differs depending on the trench's purpose. Temporary trenches require more care to avoid leaving a random barren zone in your lawn.

Things You'll Need

  • Flat shovel or spade
  • Edging tool
  • Rake
  • Grass seed
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Instructions

    • 1

      Dig into your lawn with a shovel or spade. Lift the dirt from the ground. Dump the displaced dirt into a wheelbarrow as you proceed digging. Use this method if damage to your lawn isn't important.

    • 2

      Dig more carefully if you need a temporary trench. Outline the trench first and cut along the outline with a sharp edging tool. Slice the outlined trench into small sections that a flat shovel can lift.

    • 3

      Lift the lawn sections gently with a flat shovel. Lay them carefully next to the trench. Replace the lawn sections when you are finished.

    • 4

      Rake the grass surrounding the former trench. Scatter grass seed to conceal the trench.