Border Edging

Types

• Border edging comes in a variety of shapes, styles and sizes natural or man-made. Natural edging options include wood, stone, rock and plants. Man-made options include plastic, metal, concrete and brick. Each type has its set of advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages

• Border edging creates a visual line between the enclosed space and the remaining area, giving the landscape a neat, well-groomed, manicured appearance. Edging reduces damages to enclosed plants while mowing or weeding the grass. It contains wood chips, gravel, pine bark or other mulch within the bed and prevents weeds and unwanted grass from growing inside. When properly installed, edging adds interest to the garden or yard and heightens its appeal for many years.

Installation

• The method of installing border edging varies according to the type used. To provide a secure footing for the edging, dig a 4 to 6 inch deep trench along the desired area as wide as the edging material. Tamp the base and walls of the excavation to keep soil from caving in. Push metal or plastic edging into the trench until the top ½ to ¾ inch rests above soil level. Pound spikes into the pockets along the lower end of the edging so they penetrate the soil below and grasp the edging in place. If installing brick or landscape timber border edging, spread 1 to 2 inches of sand over the base of the trench before laying the material. If using stone or rock, simply lay the material over the ground and pound lightly with a mallet. Pay attention to detail during the process of installation to ensure your edging lasts many years while exposed to natural elements.

Considerations

• Edging is meant to heighten visual appeal and pleasure, not to stand out in the landscape. Ensure the edging material complements your outdoor design element and exterior home style for a harmonious effect that brings the entire landscape design together. Use landscape timbers with cottages, bricks with country homes and metal with contemporary homes. Inspect the edging frequently, especially after the last frost in spring, and repair or replace damaged sections accordingly. Use evergreen border plants like boxwood, glossy abelia and dwarf hollies that retain foliage even in the winter.