How to Edge Flower Beds?

A beautifully manicured garden begins with clean, defined edges. Overgrown or uneven flower bed borders can make the most beautiful garden look like a mess. Proper flower bed edging improves curb appeal, protects your lawn, simplifies maintenance and keeps soil and mulch in place.

At Neil & Nick’s Landscaping, we understand why homeowners struggle to keep their flower beds looking their best. That’s why we put together this guide to help edge flower beds effectively, and if you’d rather not DIY, our softscaping services in Winnipeg have you covered. Whether you’re doing it yourself or considering professional help, we’re here for you!

What Materials Can Be Used to Edge Flower Beds?

Choosing the right material for your garden, mostly included in your outdoor living space, shouldn’t be complicated. Think durability (kids, pets, freeze–thaw) and aesthetics (how it looks with your patio, fire pit, or seating area). Popular flower bed edging materials include:

• Metal Edging (Steel or Aluminum): These materials are long-lasting, sleek and perfect for modern gardens. Hammer them into place and paint them for a custom look.

• Plastic or Composite Edging: Despite being affordable and flexible, these easy-to-install materials might not last through Winnipeg’s extreme winters.

• Stone or Brick: Choose this option for a classic, natural appearance. It’s ideal for high-traffic areas and adds some structure to your garden. 

• Wood (Cedar or Treated Lumber): If you prefer a rustic look that’s easy to work with, it's a great option. Just note that periodic maintenance is needed to prevent rot or warping.

Every material has its advantages and disadvantages. Take your garden’s style, your budget and how long you want the edging to last into account.

How to Prepare Your Flower Beds for Edging

Preparation is essential to a professional-looking finish. When it’s time to prepare flower beds, consider the following:

1. Remove Weeds and Grass: Start by cleaning the border of existing vegetation to create a clean line for edging.

2. Level or Grade the Soil: Uneven soil can cause edges to shift or tilt over time. Smooth and compact the soil for stability.

3. Mark Your Outline: Use string or spray to mark the border. This will provide a sense of consistency and help you visualize the final shape.

When it’s time to prepare your flower bed for edging, proper preparation is essential. It will ensure your edging stays straight and effective, leaving your garden with a crisp, organized look.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Edging

When it’s time to edge your flower beds, the installation process will differ depending on the material. Here’s an overview of each:

• Metal or Plastic Edging: Cut to length, hammer stakes into place and slightly bury the edging into the soil. The edge should be flush with the ground for a clean finish.

• Stone or Brick: Lay stones or bricks in a trench with sand or soil as a base. Each piece should be level and aligned with one another. 

• Wood Edging: Start by digging a shallow trench, placing boards, and securing them with stakes. Treated lumber or cedar resists rot best in Winnipeg’s wet and cold climate.

Want a pro tip? Stagger cuts and keep curves smooth for a natural, professional appearance.

Deciding Between DIY and Professional Edging

Edging flower beds is a perfectly manageable DIY project as long as you have the right tools and a bit of patience. All you need to edge small beds are basic tools like a shovel, rake and mallet.

Larger landscapes or complex curves benefit from professional installation. Professional landscapers bring expertise in precise placement, deliver durable results, and save you significant time.

As an award winning landscaping company in Winnipeg, we specialize in flower bed edging for Winnipeg homeowners. We combine efficiency with expert design to create beautiful, lasting borders.

Get Beautiful, Clean Flower Beds

Proper flower bed edging adds instant curb appeal, protects your lawn and makes garden maintenance a breeze. When you choose the right materials, prepare your flower beds and maintain the edges over time, your garden will stay at its best. At Neil & Nick’s Landscaping, as the providers of trusted landscaping services in Winnipeg, we can help you get the yard of your dreams. We provide precise placement, durable results and save you time in the long run.

Ready to transform your garden? Contact us to get a flower bed edging quote today!