How to Edge a Flower Bed With Aluminum Flashing
Aluminum flashing is sold in rolls in hardware and home improvement stores. It's flexible and inexpensive, doesn't require much digging, and gives your garden a retro edge. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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1
Measure the edge of your flower bed.
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Buy enough aluminum flashing to complete the project. Pay attention to the different widths and pick the one you want.
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3
Put on gloves - this is sharp stuff.
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4
Gently unroll the flashing. You'll probably need help with this. Not only is the edging sharp, it has a fair amount of spring to it.
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5
Stand it up along the edge of the bed and gently (so it slides but doesn't bend) push the flashing into the soil until its bottom half is covered.
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Tips & Warnings
The deeper the flashing goes, the sturdier it will be, and the more likely it is that it will block the roots and runners of invasive plants. But remember to consider the characteristics of your soil.
If you've got small children who will be running barefoot through the garden, brick or wood or even plastic will be a better choice for edging than aluminum flashing.
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Comments
View all 6 Comments-
Aug 08, 2006
I've found that by folding the flashing in half, then pushing the sharp edges into the soil, it not only makes it easier to push in without bending the soft aluminum, it also leaves a rounded and safer exposed edge for the safety of all your garden visitors.
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Aug 08, 2006
I've found that by folding the flashing in half, then pushing the sharp edges into the soil, it not only makes it easier to push in without bending the soft aluminum, it also leaves a rounded and safer exposed edge for the safety of all your garden visitors.
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Nov 22, 2005
Cut a channel first. When the soil is moist enough to hold together, insert a spade (flatter is better) and rock it back and forth (not side-to-side)to cut a V-shaped channel. Insert the edging into the channel and back-fill.
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Nov 22, 2005
I've found that by folding the flashing in half, then pushing the sharp edges into the soil, it not only makes it easier to push in without bending the soft aluminum, it also leaves a rounded and safer exposed edge for the safety of all your garden visitors.
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Nov 22, 2005
I've found that by folding the flashing in half, then pushing the sharp edges into the soil, it not only makes it easier to push in without bending the soft aluminum, it also leaves a rounded and safer exposed edge for the safety of all your garden visitors.
