Lawn Garden Edging Materials

Edging deters weeds from entering the garden.

Deterring weeds is one of a gardener's greatest challenges. This job is easier with help from a garden edge. Traditional edging uses an edging tool to angle a neat trench between a garden bed and a grassy area. There are also physical barriers available that are both functional and attractive in the garden.

Wood Edging

Use landscape timbers for square garden edges. For round garden beds, small, wooden peg-like edging connected with metal offers greater flexibility. Use only weather-treated lumber in the garden.

Groundcover

Choose low-mounding perennial flowers for an eye-catching border around the garden. A small trench just before groundcover planting helps keep groundcover plants in and weeds out. Consider existing flowers in the garden when choosing a ground-cover edge. Groundcover plants should be noticeably shorter than the other plants in the flowerbed.

Natural Materials

Borrow materials from the environment for a natural feel in the garden. Digging a small trench around the bed's perimeter and lining it with small pebbles, river rock, shells or flat stone adds a rustic charm. This edge is both attractive and low maintenance.

Go Green

Reuse common items in the garden for a green feel. Dig a trench around the garden and line the edge with old wine bottles. Bury bottle necks 2 inches for a colorful edge. Rubber tire mats provide an effective barrier for weeds and allow easy mowing around beds.

References

• Hometime Glossary: Lawn and Garden
• Home Depot: Landscaping Know How

Resources

• Blades Lawn Care: How to Install Landscape Edging