How to Edge Lower Beds

Garden edging takes a variety of forms.

One of the most flexible areas in garden design is the edging. In considering how to edge lower flower beds look to low level vegetation, plastic barriers, brick, rocks or a mix of media for a completely unique look. For a living edge consider all-season, hardy perennials that offer the color, height and density desired. For non-living edges seek out durable materials that provide an unbroken border to deter weeds and grass incursion. Bear in mind that the rear edge of your garden can have larger structures and plants than the front, creating a backdrop for the entire garden.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Marking tape
• Plant supports
• Edging flowers, barriers or materials
• Spade
• Hoe
• Garden hand tools
• Wheelbarrow

Instructions

1. Measure and outline your border. As a general rule, large gardens benefit visually from a curved lower edge that provides a natural flow and feel, particularly along a fence line. The deeper your garden curves the more it draws the eye. If you don't have marking tape, you can use a garden hose to lay out the outline, securing it in place with plant supports on either side so it doesn't shift while you work.

2. Purchase the edging flowers, barriers and other materials desired. You'll need about one seedling per foot for large plants like basil and four plants per square foot for medium-sized vegetation. Miniature flowers, small herbs and some vegetables need about 1 to 2 inches of growing space. Use your border measurements to buy the appropriate amount for the entire length of your lower bed.

3. Graph out your garden space using the measurements gathered. Organize your plant selections on the paper taking into account how much each piece of greenery expands. For example, creeping ground covers should be spaced apart according to their height. A plant that grows 2 inches tall needs 4 inches between itself and the next plant. A living edge will, at first, have some open spots out of necessity. You can fill those spots with rocks or other edging materials until your plants grow in.

   For those who choose non-living materials for edging, use the graph to indicate any novelty features in the lower border like a gazing ball. You can also use the graph to sketch out a complete garden plan.

4. Prepare the border using a spade to cut into the soil, creating an edge, followed by a hoe for a smooth transition. Start at one end of the garden's edge. Dig about 3 inches down into the soil and 2 to 3 feet in width, removing the dirt and transferring it into the wheelbarrow. Continue down the entire length of the outlined border. Retain healthy pieces of turf for other areas of your lawn that show signs of stress. Use the excess soil to level out low areas and holes.

5. Set out the flowers, barriers or material along the trench created. Begin putting them into place. A barrier between the grass and flowers or edging material should go down first if you're using one. This makes maintenance easier. Space flowers and other vegetation according to directions on the seedling or seed package, and using your graph. Put rocks or bricks together as seamlessly as possible into the trench to prevent barrier breaches into the lower bed. Finish the edge by filling in any gaps with left over soil or mulch.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider your plant's sun and water requirements when planning both the garden and the edge design.

• Avoid over-crowding your plants. You can always add more later once you see how the first batch grows.

References

• Arizona Master Gardener's Manual: Flower Bed - Planning the Flower Border
• Cornell University: Flower Garden Design Basics
• University of Illinois Extension Considerations for Edging Flower Beds
• University of Florida IFAS Extension: Low Maintenance Landscapes
• Cass County Extension: Flower Bed Planning
• Michigan State University Extension: Flower Bed Design