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Whether you're growing loads of pretty flowers or a bumper crop of vegetables, or you want to upgrade your front yard with a new garden bed, every landscape bed should be edged to keep it looking neat.
This essential step is something many homeowners skip, but edging adds a final flourish to your plantings. Without edging, your garden beds look unfinished.
Garden edging also serves a functional purpose by keeping grasses, many of which spread, out of your beds. A sharp edge between grass and planting beds makes your lawn and look neat and tidy, too. In addition, edging protects your annuals and perennials from the mower and string trimmer.
Edging comes in many different materials from plastic to metal to wood to stone. Choose a type that echoes your garden's style. For example, stone looks charming in a cottage garden, while the crisp edges of metal work in a garden with a more contemporary feel.
Now, we won't lie to you: Installing edging takes a little work, but if done well, the results can last for years. Different types of edging also require different levels of effort. For example, pound-in types can be hammered into the ground with a rubber mallet, while long rolls of edging require a trench to be dug for installation.
Read on to learn more about our favorite types of garden edging ideas for every type of yard:
1
Plastic Edging
Plastic isn’t glamorous, but it is inexpensive and lasts for many years. It comes in long rolls which require you to dig a trench in which to sink the edge. The rolls can be unwieldy to handle, so enlist a helper for easier installation.
A few companies now make recycled rubber edging that’s pounded into place. It’s nearly indestructible though it's not always aesthetically appealing in formal or cottage-style gardens.
Many types of metal edging are no-dig, meaning you hammer them into the ground. It's hard on your hands to install, so wear heavy work gloves when handling. Painted finishes or galvanized metal last the longest.
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Pound-in plastic edging is much easier to install by yourself, and it lasts for many years, too. The only downside is that it may be pushed up by the freeze/thaw cycle in winter in colder climates; just tap it back into place in the spring.
5
Paver Stones
Pavers made from concrete are nearly indestructible. But they're heavy to handle and time-consuming to install, so plan on a few days of heavy carrying and digging. You can make paths with pavers, or just use them for edging beds.
6
Weathering Steel Edging
Weathering steel, also known by the brand name Cor-Ten, is an edging product that weathers from metal to a handsome rust-brown patina over time. It's a little tricky to install, but it will last a lifetime. It comes in various heights for edging beds or to create raised beds.
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Eucalyptus wood offers a casual feel to gardens in warm climates and pairs particularly well with coastal or tropical gardens. It's usually very easy to install because it typically hammers in with a rubber mallet. It will last for several years.
8
Woven Willow
Also called "wattle," this natural edge is perfect for English or country gardens. It's used extensively in Europe. It's easy to hammer in, but because it's made of twigs, it won't last forever, and it is susceptible to damage if it takes a direct hit from the string trimmer.
9
Natural Rock
Rocks are available in every size, color, and shape you can imagine, and creeping flowers look amazing tumbling over them! Line the edges of each bed, but opt for rocks that are the size of a soft ball or larger for the most visual impact. Visit a nursery or garden center for options.
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10
Flagstone
Flagstone comes in many different shades and thicknesses. Set the flat pieces along the garden edge, or stack them for a classic cottage or country garden appearance. Check with your local nursery or garden center for options.
11
Brick
Lay bricks in a shallow trench on their side with the wide side down, or stand them upright. The hardest part is getting everything straight and level. Hint: Use a rubber mallet and line level on a string.
12
Poured Concrete
This is typically not a DIY job for newbies, as you must build a form, then mix and pour concrete into the mold. Consider hiring an expert, because mistakes are not easily fixed. Also, this isn't a great option if you like to change it up or plan to expand beds in future growing seasons.
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13
Hand Edging
Here’s a great idea if you don’t like the look (or expense) of edging: Use an edging shovel, spade, or electric edger, to cut the grass away and create a sharp edge, which keeps grass from creeping into beds.
This technique is labor-intensive and will need to be done every year or two, but it also has a clean, neat look. Plus, it's ideal if you like to enlarge beds as plants mature.
14
Landscape Timbers
If you’re handy with a saw, landscape timbers are a cost-effective method of edging. They're often pressure-treated to prevent rotting. You’ll need to level the ground and cut sections as needed.
15
Living Hedge
If you're going for an English garden vibe, a low-growing hedge can serve as a pretty, neat edging. Plant the shrubs close together so they fill in quickly. You can shear them to shape, as shown here, or leave them more natural in appearance.
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16
Cedar Edging
Small cedar shingles or cedar shake “fences” are simple to hammer around the perimeter of beds. They last for several years, but not forever, as they’re easily damaged by string trimmers or lawn mowers.
17
Natural Log Edging
Need to take down a tree in your yard? Repurpose it by using large branches or the trunk as edging for beds. The natural look adds rustic charm and will last for several years before needing to be replaced. Edge the lawn before placing the tree sections around beds.
18
Decorative Fence
Small sections of fence are super-easy for lining a garden perimeter, though it can be easily damaged and won't hold mulch in place.
Many different types and sizes exist including metal, wood, and plastic, so you’ll find the one that suits your garden’s style.
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If you’re seeking a more natural look, a coco fiber edge stops weeds and is easy to place along the perimeter of beds. You also can cover it with mulch. Use landscape staples to the keep the mat in place.
Bamboo is the natural choice for a Zen-style garden. It’s typically sold as short fencing that you pound into the ground.
Because bamboo is almost indestructible, it's a great long-term edging solution. But it doesn't look right in all garden styles.
Arricca Elin SanSone
Arricca Elin SanSone has written about health and lifestyle topics for Prevention, Country Living, Woman's Day, and more. She’s passionate about gardening, baking, reading, and spending time with the people and dogs she loves.
Hannah Jones
Commerce Editor
Hannah Jones is the Commerce Editor for Country Living. Her eye is always on the next up-and-coming products to include in gift guides and she's ready to test everything from dog beds to garden tools for product reviews. When she’s not scoping out the latest and greatest items on the market, you can find her hanging with her two rescue dogs.
