Landscape edging is that final touch that transforms a good yard into a great one. It defines flower beds, separates lawns from walkways, and adds a polished, professional look to your outdoor space. But achieving this transformation doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, there are numerous affordable options for landscape edging that are both effective and aesthetically pleasing. This article explores some of the cheapest and most practical ways to create beautiful landscape edging on a budget.
Understanding the Importance of Landscape Edging
Before diving into the cheapest options, it’s important to understand why landscape edging is beneficial. Edging serves several crucial purposes beyond just aesthetics.
It provides a physical barrier that prevents grass from encroaching into flower beds or garden areas. This reduces the amount of time you spend weeding and keeps your landscaping looking neat and tidy.
Edging helps to retain mulch, gravel, and other landscaping materials within the designated areas. This prevents these materials from spilling onto your lawn or walkways, saving you money on replacements and reducing maintenance.
A well-defined edge creates a visual separation between different areas of your yard, enhancing its overall appeal and creating a sense of order. This can also increase the perceived value of your property.
The Bare Minimum: Trench Edging
Sometimes, the simplest solution is the most economical. Trench edging, also known as spade edging or hand edging, is arguably the cheapest way to define your landscape. It requires minimal materials and relies primarily on elbow grease.
How to Create a Trench Edge
Creating a trench edge involves using a sharp spade or edging tool to create a clean, vertical cut along the border of your flower bed or garden. You then remove the sod and soil, creating a shallow trench that acts as a physical barrier.
The key to a successful trench edge is consistency. Aim for a uniform depth and width throughout the entire border. This will create a clean, professional look.
Regular maintenance is essential for trench edging. Over time, the edge will soften and grass will begin to encroach. You’ll need to re-edge periodically to maintain its definition.
While trench edging is cost-effective, it may not be suitable for all situations. It’s best suited for areas with well-drained soil and minimal foot traffic. In areas with heavy foot traffic or erosion, a more durable edging material may be necessary.
Repurposed Materials: Free or Low-Cost Options
One of the best ways to save money on landscape edging is to repurpose materials that you already have or can obtain for free or at a very low cost. This is not only budget-friendly but also environmentally conscious.
Using Existing Rocks and Stones
If you have rocks or stones in your yard, you can use them to create a natural-looking landscape edge. Gather the rocks and arrange them along the border of your flower bed or garden. You can either bury them partially in the ground for a more permanent look or simply place them on top of the soil.
The size and shape of the rocks will determine the overall look of your edging. Larger rocks will create a more substantial barrier, while smaller stones will provide a more subtle definition.
Reclaimed Bricks or Pavers
Reclaimed bricks or pavers can be a great option for creating a more formal landscape edge. You can often find these materials for free or at a discounted price from demolition sites or online marketplaces.
Lay the bricks or pavers along the border of your flower bed or garden, either directly on the soil or on a bed of sand. You can arrange them in a variety of patterns to create a unique and personalized look.
Upcycled Wood: Planks, Pallets, and More
Wood is another versatile material that can be used for landscape edging. You can use reclaimed planks, pallets, or even branches to create a rustic and natural-looking border.
When using wood for landscape edging, it’s important to choose rot-resistant varieties such as cedar or redwood. You can also treat the wood with a sealant to prolong its lifespan.
Affordable Store-Bought Options
If you prefer a more uniform or polished look, there are several affordable store-bought options for landscape edging. These materials are generally easy to install and provide a more durable and long-lasting solution than some of the repurposed options.
Plastic Edging: A Budget-Friendly Standard
Plastic edging is one of the most popular and affordable options for landscape edging. It’s available in a variety of styles and colors, and it’s easy to install and maintain.
Plastic edging typically comes in rolls or individual pieces that can be easily connected. It’s flexible enough to conform to curved borders, making it a versatile choice for any landscape design.
When installing plastic edging, it’s important to secure it properly with stakes or anchors. This will prevent it from shifting or buckling over time.
Metal Edging: Sleek and Durable on a Budget
Metal edging is another affordable and durable option for landscape edging. It’s typically made of aluminum or steel and is available in a variety of finishes.
Metal edging provides a clean, modern look that complements a variety of architectural styles. It’s also resistant to rust and corrosion, making it a long-lasting choice for any climate.
Installing metal edging typically involves driving stakes into the ground along the border of your flower bed or garden. The stakes secure the edging in place and prevent it from shifting.
Gravel or Mulch Borders: A Simple and Versatile Solution
While technically a material and not a physical barrier, using a gravel or mulch border can be a very cost-effective way to define your landscape. Simply create a trench and fill it with gravel, pebbles, or mulch.
This option is particularly well-suited for creating informal or naturalistic landscapes. It’s also relatively easy to install and maintain. The materials, especially mulch, are often inexpensive.
DIY Concrete Edging: A More Involved Project
For those who are more ambitious and willing to put in some extra effort, DIY concrete edging can be a surprisingly affordable option. While it requires more work than other methods, it can provide a long-lasting and customized look.
Creating Your Own Concrete Forms
The key to successful DIY concrete edging is creating sturdy and accurate forms. You can use wood, plastic, or even cardboard to create the forms.
The forms should be the desired shape and size of your edging. Ensure they are properly braced and secured to prevent them from shifting during the pouring process.
Mixing and Pouring the Concrete
Once your forms are in place, you can mix and pour the concrete. Use a concrete mix that is specifically designed for edging or borders.
Pour the concrete into the forms, making sure to fill all the corners and crevices. Use a trowel to smooth the surface of the concrete and remove any air pockets.
Curing and Finishing the Concrete
After the concrete has been poured, it needs to cure for several days. Keep the concrete moist during the curing process to prevent cracking.
Once the concrete has cured, you can remove the forms and finish the edges. You can use a grinder or sander to smooth the edges and create a more polished look.
Tips for Saving Money on Landscape Edging
Regardless of which option you choose, there are several ways to save money on landscape edging.
Plan your project carefully. Before you start, take the time to measure your yard and calculate how much edging material you will need. This will help you avoid overbuying and wasting money.
Shop around for the best deals. Compare prices from different stores and online retailers to find the most affordable options. Look for sales, discounts, and clearance items.
Consider buying in bulk. If you have a large yard or plan to do a lot of edging, buying in bulk can save you money.
Recycle and repurpose materials whenever possible. This is not only a great way to save money but also a more environmentally friendly option.
Do it yourself. Installing landscape edging is a relatively simple project that you can easily do yourself. This will save you money on labor costs.
Don’t be afraid to get creative. There are many different ways to create landscape edging on a budget. Be creative and think outside the box to find the best solution for your needs.
Choosing the Right Option for Your Needs
The best option for cheap landscape edging will depend on your individual needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences. Consider the following factors when making your decision:
The size and shape of your yard.
The type of soil in your yard.
The amount of foot traffic in the area.
Your budget.
Your aesthetic preferences.
Your willingness to do the work yourself.
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the landscape edging option that is right for you and your yard. Remember, a beautiful and well-defined landscape doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With a little planning and creativity, you can achieve the look you want without breaking the bank. Prioritize durability and longevity when selecting materials, even for budget options, to maximize value. Regular maintenance is crucial for all types of edging to prevent deterioration and maintain its effectiveness.
What are some budget-friendly materials I can use for landscape edging?
Using repurposed materials is a great way to save money on landscape edging. Consider using reclaimed bricks, repurposed wood pallets cut into sections, or even old wine bottles buried neck-down. These options often require minimal cost and can add a unique, rustic charm to your garden. Additionally, you can check online marketplaces or local construction sites for free or heavily discounted materials that might otherwise be discarded.
Another affordable material is plastic landscape edging, which comes in various styles and colors. It’s typically less expensive than natural stone or metal edging. You can also create a simple edge by digging a trench along your garden bed and filling it with gravel or mulch. This ‘natural’ edging is incredibly cost-effective and provides a clear visual separation between your lawn and garden beds.
How can I create a natural edge without spending any money?
A simple, natural edge can be achieved by creating a trench between your lawn and garden bed. Use a half-moon edger or a sharp spade to cut a clean line along the desired boundary. Then, remove the sod and soil to create a shallow trench, typically a few inches deep. This creates a visual barrier and helps prevent grass from encroaching into your garden.
Maintaining this natural edge requires occasional trimming to keep the line sharp and prevent grass or weeds from growing into the trench. Regular edging, ideally once a month or more frequently during peak growing seasons, will ensure a clean and defined look without any material costs. You can also use a string trimmer carefully along the edge to maintain its appearance.
What is the cost difference between DIY edging and hiring a professional?
DIY edging is significantly cheaper than hiring a professional because you eliminate labor costs. The primary expense for DIY edging is the cost of materials, which, as discussed, can be minimized by using repurposed items or inexpensive options like plastic edging. The tools required, such as a shovel or edger, are often already owned by homeowners, further reducing expenses.
Professional landscape edging involves labor fees, material costs, and potentially equipment rental fees. These costs can quickly add up, especially for larger projects or when using premium materials like natural stone. While professional installation can offer a more polished and durable result, the price difference compared to a DIY approach is often substantial, making DIY the more budget-friendly option.
How do I install plastic landscape edging on a budget?
Purchase the least expensive plastic edging available. Look for sales or bulk discounts to reduce the cost per foot. Simple, straight edging is typically cheaper than more elaborate, decorative styles. Before installing, mark the desired line of your garden bed with spray paint or string.
Dig a shallow trench along the marked line, following the manufacturer’s instructions for depth and width. Place the plastic edging into the trench and secure it using the stakes provided. Make sure the edging is level and flush with the ground. Backfill the trench with soil and compact it to hold the edging in place. This method requires minimal tools and effort, making it both affordable and easy.
Can I use free stones I find in my yard or nearby areas for edging?
Yes, using free stones you find in your yard or nearby areas can be an excellent way to create a natural and cost-effective landscape edge. Look for stones of varying sizes and shapes to add visual interest. Make sure to obtain permission if you are collecting stones from private property or public lands where collection might be restricted.
Clean the stones thoroughly with water and a brush before placing them along the edge of your garden bed. Arrange the stones in a visually appealing manner, varying their sizes and shapes to create a more natural look. You can either place them directly on the soil surface or dig a shallow trench to partially bury them for added stability. This is a free and eco-friendly edging option that can blend beautifully with your landscape.
How can I maintain my cheap landscape edging to make it last longer?
Regular maintenance is key to extending the lifespan of any type of landscape edging, especially the cheaper options. For plastic edging, check periodically for cracks or damage and repair them promptly with a plastic sealant or by replacing the damaged section. Remove any weeds or grass that grow through or around the edging to prevent it from becoming overgrown and less effective.
For natural edging materials like wood or repurposed items, apply a sealant or preservative to protect them from moisture and decay. Clean the edging regularly to remove dirt and debris. By investing a little time in upkeep, you can significantly prolong the life of your affordable landscape edging and keep your garden looking neat and tidy.
Are there any safety precautions I should take when installing landscape edging myself?
When installing landscape edging yourself, especially if using sharp tools, prioritize safety. Wear work gloves to protect your hands from cuts and abrasions. If using power tools such as saws or edgers, wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris.
Be aware of underground utilities such as gas lines or electrical cables before digging. Contact your local utility company to have them mark the locations of these lines to avoid accidental damage. Lift heavy materials with your legs, keeping your back straight, to prevent back injuries. Following these safety precautions will help ensure a safe and successful DIY landscape edging project.