Sometimes, all it takes is a little definition to transform a bland space into a breathtaking garden. That’s where edging your flower bed comes into play. It’s like giving your garden a chic haircut; it instantly looks fresher, tidier, and more put together. Clean, crisp edges between your lawn and mulch will take your landscaping to another level. And the best part is that anyone can do it. Let me show you just how easy it is.
What Does it Mean to Edge a Flower Bed?
In the simplest terms, edging a flower bed involves creating a distinct boundary between your flower bed and the surrounding lawn or pathway. This can be done using a variety of materials or tools to achieve a clean, crisp line that defines where your garden bed starts and ends. Not only does this make your garden look neat, but it also helps to prevent grass from invading your flower beds and can even enhance the overall health of your plants.
Step 1: Mark the Border
The first step is to mark the border of your flower or garden bed. The best way to do this is by using marking spray paint. It’s paint that comes in a special can designed to be sprayed upside down.
If you are creating an organic shape for your flower bed, you may want to lay out a garden hose and use it to create the curves.
Or if you are creating a bed with a uniform radius, as I did in this example, you can use a string tied to a stake at the center point. Tie the other end around the spray paint can. This will allow you to maintain a consistent distance as you spray the border.
Step 2: Cut the Outside Edge
There are several different tools you can use to create the edge of the flower bed, but I prefer to use a straight-edge shovel or spade.
Facing the flower bed, place the spade just outside of the spray paint mark, and push down into the ground at a 90-degree angle about three inches deep. If the ground is hard, you’ll probably need to use your foot or both feet to push the spade or shovel into the dirt.
Continue this along the full length of the flower bed, staying just outside of the spray-painted line.
Step 3: Cut the Inside Edge
Once you have completed cutting the ground on the outside of the painted line, turn around and face the opposite direction. Place the spade about five inches away from the line and push it into the ground at a 45-degree angle. The spade should meet the 90-degree cut you made in step 2.
Continue doing this along the full length of the flower bed.
Step 4: Remove the Sod
Now you should be able to remove strips of sod created by the cutting you did in steps 2 and 3. You can do this with a shovel, but I find it easier to do with my hands.
Place your hand under the dirt or grab ahold of the grass and pull them up and out. Lay them to the side or place them in a wheelbarrow to be disposed of when you’re finished.
Step 5: Maintain the Edge
After putting in a lot of work creating nice and clean edges for your flower and garden beds, you want to make sure they stay looking great. I do this with a weed eater or string trimmer.
Keeping the Flower Bed Pristine
Edging is just the beginning. To ensure your flower bed continues to steal the show, here are a few additional tips:
- Mulching: Adding a layer of mulch not only suppresses weeds but also retains moisture in the soil, providing a healthy environment for your plants. Plus, it gives your beds a uniform, tidy appearance.
- Plant Selection: Choose plants that will thrive in your specific climate and soil type. Healthy, happy plants contribute to a more vibrant and easier-to-maintain flower bed.
- Regular Maintenance: Dedicate time to deadheading spent flowers, trimming overgrowth, and removing weeds. These simple tasks can make a world of difference in the appearance of your garden.
- Watering Wisdom: Establish a consistent watering schedule. Early morning is usually best, as it reduces evaporation and prevents fungal diseases.
The best way to trim around a flower bed to maintain a good-looking edge is to hold the weed eater so that the strings are cutting at a 90-degree angle to the ground. In other words, don’t angle the weed eater, this will create a tapered look, and over time your edge will start to disappear.
