Which Border Edging To Choose?

Border edging serves many purposes. Regardless of the landscape, there are grass borders that adapt to the needs it requires. Choosing one that complements the home will not only improve its appearance but also increase its value. Select the correct edge of seedlings, borders, walkways, etc. It will significantly reduce lawn maintenance such as mowing or weeding.

By keeping grass on the lawn and out of garden border edging beds, edging reduces the amount of time spent on lawn maintenance. The ideal border edging can be easily cut, or at least minimize trimming needs. There are numerous grass edging options to choose from and they can be decorative or inconspicuous within the landscape.

What Types Are There?

Lawn edging is a great way to help define borders, creating a barrier between your lawn and other areas of the landscape. The edging of the lawn should complement the rest of the house and the surrounding landscape.

Natural lawn edges can be created with plants, stacked stones, mulch, or wood. These edging materials are less formal in appearance and blend easily into most landscapes.

Plants – The edging of plants is one of the most used. Ornamental grasses, ground covers, flowers, and small shrubs all fit into this type of lawn edging.

Rocks – Rocks or stone edging can be found in many landscapes. They are available in many styles and are often used to create small retaining walls for seedlings and other areas of the lawn. This type of flower border edging provides a nice finish and stands out well among flowers and foliage. Rock or stone edging also works well for lining the outside edges of swimming pools or garden ponds.

Mulching – Some people create mulch around the edges of the lawn. This is accomplished by clearing the outer edges of seedlings, borders, and walkways, and then mulching them. This type of edging allows flexibility should the existing area change in size or shape over time.

Wood – Wood trim varies in style from natural to decorative and even simulated. For example, treated wood can negatively affect plants as well as beneficial insects. Untreated wood will deteriorate over time and need to be replaced; however, it is safer for the environment and enriches the soil. Wood edging can also be more difficult to fit curves, but will ultimately create a more natural look, especially in wooded environments.

Simulated Grass Edging

Simulated edging includes preformed materials such as metal, plastic, and brick. These lawn edging materials can be smooth or textured, opaque or glossy, and colored to blend or contrast with the surrounding landscape.

• Metal – Metal trim, such as aluminum or steel, is much more flexible and works well in curves, but is still strong enough for straight lines. This type of lawn edging will not look as natural, but it will last for years. The disadvantage of metal lawn edging is the fact that it can rust over time; however, the aged appearance is often welcome in more rustic settings.
• Plastic – Plastic edging, such as vinyl, is widely used and is available in fencing styles. Plastic trim provides formality and a crisp, clean appearance, but over time it can be prone to cracking, especially in cold weather.
• Brick – Brick, and concrete trim also offer formality. They are available in various styles and are good for creating interesting patterns, especially when edging paths or walkways. Brick and concrete are also extremely strong and work well in many settings, providing a more permanent edge. Generally, brick edging works best on curved landscapes, while concrete is ideal for straight lawns. The main concern with these edges is keeping them low enough to prevent damage to lawn mowers.

Whatever Type Of Edging You Choose; It Should Always Compliment Your Surroundings

 Choose materials that add value to the landscape, not anything that detracts from it. Trim should enhance the appearance of the home rather than compete with other items. Adding piping to your garden provides many benefits. An attractive border can frame a landscape, define lines between beds and lawn areas, and even highlight focal points. Lawn edging can also help give shape and structure to the landscape.