Complete Gardening
Gardening enthusiasts and landscapers alike have long sought effective methods to keep grass at bay. From whimsical DIY projects to professional-grade installations, these 19 garden edging solutions are the secret weapons that stop grass dead in its tracks. Each method not only serves the practical purpose of controlling overgrowth but adds an aesthetic touch to your outdoor space. Dive into this curated list to discover innovative techniques that will elevate your garden’s edge and maintain its pristine appearance.
1. The “Trench & Mulch” Trick
Dig a 4-6 inch deep trench along your garden’s edge and fill it with mulch. This simple yet effective technique creates an air gap that grass roots cannot cross. It’s a cost-effective solution for gardeners looking to maintain clean lines without a hefty investment. By keeping grass at bay, your plants can thrive without competition for nutrients. This method is perfect for those who appreciate the beauty of a well-defined garden border without constant upkeep. A classic yet innovative approach, it’s an essential addition to any gardener’s toolkit.
2. Upside-Down Wine Bottles
Burying glass bottles neck-down along your garden border is both whimsical and functional. This creative solution not only repurposes materials but also offers a quirky aesthetic that can brighten any garden space. With colored bottles, you add a playful touch that dances with the sunlight, creating visual interest. While this method may seem unconventional, it’s surprisingly effective at preventing grass encroachment. It’s an environmentally friendly choice that aligns with the principles of sustainability, proving that garden solutions can be both innovative and charming.
3. Recycled Bricks on Edge
Recycled bricks set diagonally in a sawtooth pattern offer a durable and attractive garden edge. This method allows you to mow right over the edge, saving time on trimming and maintenance. The bricks provide a robust barrier that grass roots struggle to penetrate, ensuring your garden remains tidy. Using recycled materials not only benefits the environment but also adds a touch of historical charm to your landscape. It’s a practical solution for those who appreciate the blend of functionality and aesthetics in garden design.
4. Steel Lawn Edging (Hidden Install)
Installing galvanized steel strips 1 inch below grade offers a sleek and invisible solution to garden edging. This landscaper’s secret prevents the unsightly “edge bulge” that can occur from mower wheels, keeping your garden lines crisp and clean. The hidden installation means that your garden’s aesthetic is uninterrupted by visible barriers. It’s an elegant choice for those who prefer minimalism in their garden design. The durability of steel ensures that this method will provide long-lasting protection against grass invasion.
5. Log Roll Edging
Half-burying small logs or thick branches offers a rustic and natural garden edge, perfect for cottage-style gardens and natural landscapes. This method not only provides a barrier to grass but also integrates seamlessly into the natural surroundings. The organic materials blend beautifully with greenery, enhancing the garden’s overall aesthetic. It’s an ideal solution for those who value sustainability and wish to incorporate eco-friendly practices into their gardening. This edging option is both charming and practical, creating a harmonious balance between nature and design.
6. The “Double Trench” System
Digging two parallel trenches 6 inches apart and filling them with gravel creates a formidable weed-killing barrier. This low-maintenance professional trick is beloved by landscapers for its effectiveness in preventing grass and weed growth. The gravel acts as a deterrent, making it difficult for unwanted plants to take root. This method ensures that your garden borders remain pristine with minimal effort. It’s an innovative approach that combines functionality with ease, offering a long-term solution to garden maintenance challenges.
7. Aluminum Edging with Hidden Spikes
Aluminum edging, particularly brands like EverEdge, provide a rust-free and warp-resistant solution to garden borders. The hidden spikes that hammer into the ground offer secure placement, ensuring the edging stays in place. This method is ideal for those seeking a polished look without the hassle of constant maintenance. The sleek appearance complements modern garden designs, adding a touch of sophistication. Professionals appreciate aluminum for its durability and ease of installation, making it a top choice for creating clean, defined garden edges.
8. Paver Mowing Strip
Installing flush pavers wide enough for mower wheels is a game changer for garden maintenance. This method eliminates the need for string trimming, allowing for easy mowing right to the edge. The clean lines created by the pavers enhance the garden’s overall appearance, offering both functionality and beauty. It’s a time-saving solution that appeals to those who value efficiency in their gardening routine. By choosing this method, you ensure that your garden remains tidy with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy gardeners who crave simplicity.
9. Corrugated Metal Culvert Edging
Cutting 12-inch diameter metal culverts in half lengthwise provides a robust and low-maintenance garden edge. This method is renowned for its durability, lasting over 50 years without requiring upkeep. The industrial aesthetic of the corrugated metal adds a contemporary flair to garden designs. It’s an excellent choice for those who prefer a modern look coupled with practical benefits. This edging solution withstands the test of time, offering peace of mind to gardeners who want long-term reliability. It’s a blend of style and substance.
10. Concrete Curbing (Poured in Place)
Poured concrete curbing offers a durable and customizable garden edge. By adding oxide pigments, you can achieve colored borders that enhance your garden’s aesthetic. This professional-grade solution costs approximately $6 per linear foot, making it accessible for DIY enthusiasts. The permanence of concrete ensures that your garden remains well-defined and protected from grass encroachment. It’s a popular choice for those who desire a tailored look that can withstand the elements. This method marries form and function, providing a solid foundation for garden design.
11. Living Edge with Liriope
Planting dwarf liriope along your garden borders creates a lush living edge that doubles as a decorative feature. This perennial plant is known for its resilience and striking purple flowers in the summer, adding color and texture to your garden. The liriope acts as a natural barrier, keeping grass at bay while enhancing the aesthetic appeal. It’s an eco-friendly solution for gardeners who prefer living edges over traditional materials. This method brings life and vibrancy to your garden, offering a sustainable and beautiful option for edging.
12. Scalloped Concrete Blocks
Scalloped concrete blocks offer a stable and lasting garden edge, weighing in at 14 pounds each. Available at retailers like Lowes, these blocks are designed to stay put forever, resisting movement and grass encroachment. The scalloped design adds an attractive texture to your garden, providing both form and function. This method is ideal for those seeking a reliable and aesthetically pleasing solution to garden edging. The substantial weight of the blocks ensures minimal maintenance, making it a practical choice for maintaining neat garden borders.
13. Railroad Tie Steps
Burying synthetic railroad ties vertically 18 inches deep provides a sturdy and rustic edge to your garden. This method is ideal for creating steps or borders that evoke a sense of history and charm. It’s important to use new synthetic ties, as real ones can leak creosote. This method offers a durable solution that withstands the elements while adding character to your landscape. It’s a nod to traditional design, perfect for those who appreciate the fusion of practicality and nostalgia in garden elements.
14. Gabion Wall Edging
Filling wire cages with river rock or broken concrete to create gabion wall edging offers a stylish and multifunctional solution. This method not only provides a robust barrier against grass but also doubles as extra seating. The industrial aesthetic of the gabion walls adds a modern touch to any garden. It’s a versatile choice for those seeking both functionality and style in their garden design. The combination of materials allows for creativity in appearance while effectively managing garden boundaries. It’s a contemporary twist on traditional edging.
15. Corten Steel Edging
Corten steel edging is favored by wealthy clients for its ability to develop a unique rusty patina that never requires painting. This high-end solution offers a distinctive aesthetic that evolves over time, creating a dynamic garden border. At approximately $30 per linear foot, it’s a luxurious option for those seeking a statement piece in their garden. The durability of corten steel ensures that your garden edge will withstand the elements while maintaining its visual appeal. It’s a sophisticated choice for those looking to invest in quality.
16. Glass Bottle Brick Wall
Mortaring glass bottles between brick courses creates a stunning garden wall that glows when struck by sunlight. This creative solution transforms ordinary materials into an extraordinary garden feature. The interplay of light and color offers a mesmerizing visual effect, making it a focal point in any landscape. It’s an artistic approach for those who enjoy a bit of whimsy in their garden design. The unique combination of glass and brick not only serves as an effective barrier but also adds a magical touch to your outdoor space.
17. Reclaimed Granite Curbing
Reclaimed granite curbing offers an eco-friendly and durable garden edge, often sourced from demolition yards for around $5 per chunk. Setting the granite on a compacted gravel base ensures stability and longevity. This method provides a sense of history and sophistication, perfect for those who appreciate classic materials in their garden design. The natural beauty of granite adds an elegant touch to any landscape, making it a prestigious choice for edging. It’s a timeless option that marries sustainability with style, offering a refined solution for garden borders.
18. Bronze In-Grade Edging
Bronze in-grade edging offers an over-the-top luxury touch to any garden, seen in prestigious locations like the Getty Museum gardens. The cast bronze strips age to a beautiful verdigris, providing a timeless and elegant border. This high-end solution is perfect for gardens that demand both sophistication and durability. The unique aging process of bronze adds character over time, ensuring that your garden edge remains visually captivating. It’s a choice for those who wish to indulge in the finer things, offering a piece of art as much as it is a functional barrier.
19. Laser-Cut Steel Patterns
Laser-cut steel patterns offer a custom and artistic approach to garden edging. By having a metal shop cut your design, you can create a unique edge that reflects personal style. Wave patterns, for example, block roots while serving as a decorative element. This method allows for creativity and personalization, making it an exciting choice for those who view their garden as an extension of their artistic expression. The durability of steel ensures that these edges are both practical and beautiful, providing a lasting impression in any garden setting.