In landscaping, an edge is a border between a garden bed and a surrounding lawn. Garden edging enhances the appearance of a property, keeping invasive grass and weeds from encroaching on your garden spaces. The right kind of edging can transform an ordinary landscape into an extraordinary one.
There are two types of edging: trenches and barriers.
Trench Edging
Trenching is the most basic and inexpensive type of edging. A trench is a narrow border of soil created using a spade or shovel. A trench edging is easy to create but requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best.
Barrier Edging
Barriers are a type of garden edging that uses various materials to create a barrier around a garden bed. Some of the materials used to make garden bed barriers include:
Rock
Rock edging gives your property a more natural look. Edging rocks can consist of large stones, river rocks, pebbles, pea gravel, and even sand. Careful attention needs to be paid to the arrangement of the rocks to prevent grass and weeds from breaking through.
Concrete
You can choose from precast concrete edgers or have a custom edge created from poured concrete. Poured concrete edging is a little more complicated than other forms of edging; you may require the help of a professional landscaper.
Wood
Wood edging can consist of carefully arranged wooded logs or a wood chip mulch laid in a trench. What type of wood you use depends on the look you’re going for.
Brick
Brick provides a more formal look and is easy to install. Many styles and colors are available.
Plastic
While it doesn’t provide the aesthetics of rock, wood chips, bricks, or other edging materials, plastic is one of the least expensive edging options. Plastic edging can be found at most hardware stores and is available in “no-dig” panels or long rolls. The thicker the plastic, the longer the edge will maintain its appearance and function.
Metal
Metal edging is more expensive, but is easier to install (you simply drive the edging into the ground without the need to excavate a trench) and durable. There are two options when it comes to metal edging: steel or aluminum.
While more expensive than simple trenches, barriers are a smarter investment. Barriers require less maintenance and can dramatically improve a property’s curb appeal.
Before You Start Your Edging Project
To get the best results, it’s important to carefully plan your edging project before you get started. Some of the things to consider when planning your garden edging project:
- The shape and size of your garden plots
- The style or theme of your home’s landscaping
- The materials you want to use
- Your budget
- Installation costs
- Maintenance
A Los Angeles Landscaping Professional Can Help
The easiest way to get the best-looking garden edging in Los Angeles is to hire a professional landscaper. Gutierrez & Sons Landscaping has been providing outstanding professional landscaping services to LA area home and property owners for over 25 years. If you’re not sure which type of garden edging to install, we offer a free consultation to assess your property and help you make the best decision based on your needs, area, and budget.
In addition to beautiful garden edges and barriers, Gutierrez & Sons Landscaping provides just about every landscaping service you may require, including tree and lawn services, hardscaping, and fencing. Contact us through our website or call us at 909-982-0707 to request a quote or schedule a visit from a Los Angeles landscaping expert.
