What Type of Edging for a Flagstone Walkway?

Fieldstones

• Fieldstones are natural stones gathered from the surface of a field. When used fr building surfaces, fieldstones are split into flat pieces. They come in different sizes and shades of gray, white, beige and other natural colors. You can install fieldstone edging over a base of gravel and crushed limestone, and pack pea gravel between the larger stones. Fieldstone edging brings out the rustic qualities of a flagstone walkway. It's a good choice if your walkway winds past a garden of wildflowers, or if your home is located near woods.

River Rocks

• For low-lying edging with subtle color, river rocks continue the nature theme of the walkway without taking the visual focus from the flagstones. River rocks are sourced along streams and river beds and have a smooth surface left by years of erosion. Formed from varieties of minerals, they come in different colors and sizes, though typically small enough to hold several in one hand. You can spread them along the sides of the walkway for a wide weed barrier or stack them to give sharper definition to the shape of the walkway.

Pavers

• Molded from concrete or cut from stone or brick, pavers are uniform blocks that typically measure 6-by-6 or 6-by-9 inches. You can sand set or mortar set pavers, but they're easier to adjust or replace when set in sand. Pavers add a polished look to a flagstone walkway, and double as edge restraints if the flagstones are set in sand. Pack the joints between each pavers with stone dust to prevent weeds and debris from building up in the crevices.

Plants

• Lining a flagstone walkway with plants can be breathtaking. Alternate evergreen and annual plants, like chrysanthemums or Cape lilies, between the thick, vibrant foliage of hostas for year-round greenery. Appeal to more than just the eyes by welcoming guests with subtle scents and splashes of color. Dahlia, jasmine and lilies are a few of the many scented plants you can choose from. Select plants that thrive in the growing conditions along your walkway. Add 2-to-4 inches of mulch over the long plant beds to keep in moisture and block weeds.