3 Common Landscape Edging Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Maintaining a well-groomed yard is a testament to a homeowner's dedication to a beautiful outdoor space. Among the many techniques available for lawn care, edging stands out as a fundamental addition that adds a level of sophistication and refinement to your landscape.

Yet even though edging appears straightforward, its nuances are often underestimated, leading to mistakes that compromise both the visual appeal and the function of the lawn.

In this blog, we delve into three common edging mistakes and how you can avoid them for a long-lasting and well-maintained landscape.

1. Choosing the wrong landscape edging material

Choosing the right material for your landscape edging is a decision that significantly impacts both the functionality and aesthetics of your outdoor space. While materials like concrete and metal are commonly used for landscape edging, it's important to consider their unique attributes and how they align with your needs.

Concrete edging

Concrete edging is a popular choice due to its durability and versatility. It offers a clean and structured appearance that complements various landscape styles. However, there are certain limitations and drawbacks to using concrete for landscape edging:

• Installation challenges: Concrete edging often requires professional installation, as it involves pouring and shaping the material. This can be time-consuming and may require specialised tools and skills.
• Lack of flexibility: Concrete is a rigid material, making it less suitable for creating curved edges or intricate designs. This lack of flexibility can be a limiting factor if you're aiming for a more fluid landscape layout.
• Maintenance: While concrete is durable, it may develop cracks over time due to ground movement or freeze-thaw cycles. Repairing concrete edging can be labour-intensive and may require re-pouring sections.

Metal landscape edging

Metal edging, often made from materials like steel or aluminium, offers several advantages that make it a favourable choice for landscape edging:

• Durability: Metal landscape edging is highly durable and can withstand various weather conditions, including harsh winters and heavy rainfall. It doesn't crack or deteriorate like concrete, ensuring long-lasting performance.
• Easy installation: Metal edging is relatively easy to install, especially if you opt for prefabricated sections. Many metal edging products come with built-in features like spikes or stakes that simplify the installation process.
• Flexibility: Unlike concrete, metal is a flexible material that can be easily bent to create smooth curves and intricate shapes. This flexibility allows for more creative and dynamic landscape designs.
• Low Maintenance: Metal edging requires minimal maintenance. It doesn't typically crack or shift, and any minor adjustments can be made easily by repositioning or bending the metal.
• Aesthetics: Metal edging offers a sleek and modern appearance that can complement various landscape styles. It provides a subtle border that defines spaces without overpowering the overall look.

2. Incorrect edging installation depth

Proper installation depth is a critical factor in ensuring that your landscape edging functions as intended and enhances the overall aesthetics of your outdoor space. Whether you're using metal, concrete or any other type of edging, getting the installation depth right is essential for achieving a polished and functional landscape.

Installing landscape edging too shallow can lead to various issues. It might not effectively contain mulch, gravel, or soil within the designated area, causing them to spill over onto pathways or adjacent areas. This can create a messy and unorganised look, defeating the purpose of edging altogether. Additionally, shallow edging may not provide sufficient resistance to encroaching grass and weeds.

On the other hand, installing edging too deep can have its own set of drawbacks. The edging might become buried beneath the ground, making it less visible and diminishing its decorative impact. This can result in a lack of definition between different landscape elements, leading to a less cohesive and structured appearance.

As a general guideline, a depth of 2 to 4 inches is often suitable for most landscape edging materials. But this can alter depending on the type of material and application. For best results, be sure to seek advice from your product installation guide.

3. Failure to plan for curves and corners

Incorporating curves and corners into your landscape design is a fantastic way to add visual charm and fluidity into your outdoor space. The contrast they provide to straight lines can add a dynamic and natural feel, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of your landscape.

Before you begin your edging installation, lay out the desired curves and corners using a garden hose or rope. This technique gives you a visual representation of how the edging will flow through your landscape. Adjust the hose or rope until you're satisfied with the layout before moving on to the actual installation.

When creating curves, opt for gentle and gradual arcs rather than tight and abrupt turns. These smoother curves are easier to achieve with most flexible edging materials and will look more natural within the landscape.