Garden Bed Edging Installation Guide

Visualize the edge of the planting bed or path by laying out a garden hose to create the desired curves or straight lines. Once the layout is satisfactory, trace along the edge of the hose using spray paint. Ensure you mark which side of the line the edging material will sit on to avoid infringing on the garden bed.

Dig a trench along the spray-painted line. For most materials, the trench should be approximately 4 to 6 inches wide and 3 to 4 inches deep. If the goal is to stop grass from spreading into the beds, ensure the trench is dug just below the grass root line.

For installations using pavers or bricks, fill the bottom of the trench with a 1-inch bed of sand. Pack the sand until it is smooth and level, removing any gravel or debris that could interfere with a level edge.

Place the edging pieces snugly next to one another in the trench. Start at the most visible end or corner so that any final piece that requires cutting to fit will be located in the least noticeable area of the yard.

Tap the edgers evenly into place using a rubber mallet. Use a small level to check each section, leveling pavers and bricks from front to back and side to side. Use a hand trowel to push sand or soil under low edges or hammer high spots down.

Fill any remaining gaps or cracks between the edging pieces with sand, brushing it in with a soft hand broom or paintbrush. Fill the empty spaces of the trench with soil, mulch, or gravel to stabilize the border.