How to Edge Your Lawn: Create Clean, Professional Borders

Lawn edging creates clean, defined borders between your grass and walkways, driveways, or garden beds. Learn proper edging techniques for a professional-looking lawn.

1-2 hours
beginner
spring

Tools You'll Need

  • Manual edger or power edger
  • String trimmer (optional)
  • Shovel
  • Rake
  • Work gloves
  • Safety glasses

Materials

  • Edging material (optional)
  • Water

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Choose Your Edging Method

Decide between manual edging with a half-moon edger, power edging with a gas or electric edger, or using a string trimmer for quick touch-ups.

Pro Tips

  • Manual edgers work well for small areas
  • Power edgers are better for large properties
2

Mark Your Edge Line

Use a garden hose or string to mark the desired edge line. This helps create straight, consistent edges along walkways and driveways.

Pro Tips

  • Follow existing landscape features
  • Consider drainage patterns
3

Create the Edge

Work along your marked line, cutting a clean edge about 2-3 inches deep. For manual edging, use a half-moon edger and work in small sections.

Pro Tips

  • Keep the edge straight and consistent
  • Don't cut too deep initially
4

Clean Up the Edge

Remove any grass clippings and debris from the edge. Use a rake or broom to clean the area and create a neat appearance.

Pro Tips

  • Remove grass from hard surfaces
  • Consider installing edging material
5

Maintain the Edge

Regular maintenance keeps your edges looking sharp. Touch up edges every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.

Pro Tips

  • Use string trimmer for quick touch-ups
  • Re-edge completely 2-3 times per season

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I edge my lawn?

Touch up edges every 2-4 weeks during growing season. Complete re-edging is needed 2-3 times per year.

What's the best time to edge my lawn?

Spring and early summer when grass is actively growing, and the ground is moist but not wet.

Can I use a string trimmer for edging?

Yes, string trimmers work well for quick touch-ups, but manual or power edgers create cleaner, more permanent edges.

How deep should I edge?

Aim for 2-3 inches deep for most situations. Deeper edges may be needed for areas with heavy grass encroachment.

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