Caleb MorganBy Caleb Morgan

Updated November 2026

Laying landscape edging means setting a firm, level barrier between your lawn and your beds so the lines stay sharp and grass stays where it belongs. Done right, the edging sits at or just below soil level, holds its shape through mowing and weather, and makes trimming far easier. The process is simple: mark the line, dig a shallow trench, set the edging, and backfill.

Plan the Route and Mark the Line

Start by deciding exactly where the edge will run. Lay a garden hose in the shape you want and adjust it until the curves flow without tight kinks, since sharp turns make edging look uneven and are harder to set. Once you like the shape, trace it with marking paint or a line of sand poured along the hose.

Shopping for one? See our guide: 6 Best Easyflex No Dig Landscape Edging Kit Options for Clean Lines (2026).

Keep curves gentle. A radius of at least 3 to 4 feet usually looks clean on most materials, while tighter bends may require segmented or flexible edging.

Dig the Trench to the Right Depth

Use a flat spade or a half-moon edger to cut along your marked line. Dig a trench just deep enough for the top of the edging to sit flush with the surrounding soil or about half an inch above the lawn surface. Going much deeper weakens the edge, and sitting too high creates a tripping hazard and a place for grass to creep over.

Remove any roots, rocks, or debris from the trench floor so the edging seats evenly. Tamp the bottom firmly.

Set the Edging and Secure It

Place the edging in the trench, checking it with a level as you go. Work in sections, keeping the top edge consistent from piece to piece. Then secure it:

  1. Drive stakes or anchors at the joints and about every 12 to 18 inches along straight runs, following the manufacturer’s spacing.
  2. Check that each stake sits below the top edge so it stays hidden.
  3. Push the edging down until the top sits at the intended height, then tap the stakes until they hold it firmly.
  4. Recheck the level across each joint before moving on.

Stake spacing matters more than most people expect. Edging that flexes between anchors will shift under mower wheels and frost.

Backfill and Finish the Border

Pack soil or mulch against the outer face of the edging and tamp it in layers. This locks the edging in place and prevents grass from rolling underneath. Rake the soil smooth on both sides, then water the area lightly to settle everything.

If you’re working with stone or block, you may need a thin layer of gravel under the base for drainage. Our guide to How to Install Stone Landscape Edging: A Step-by-Step Guide for Clean Borders covers that step in more detail, and How to Install Landscape Edging: A Step-by-Step Guide for Clean Borders walks through the general process.

  • Flat spade or half-moon edger: A clean, straight trench is the foundation of good edging, and these tools cut the sod line more precisely than a shovel. View on Amazon
  • Carpenter’s or torpedo level: Checking the top edge as you set each section prevents the wavy lines that spoil an otherwise good job. View on Amazon
  • Landscape edging stakes: Stakes hold the edging against frost heave and mower wheels, so use the type sized for your material. View on Amazon

Common Mistakes

  • Setting the edging too high, which catches mower decks and trips people.
  • Skipping the level check, leaving a border that looks fine up close but dips over distance.
  • Using too few stakes on long runs, causing bowing after the first season.
  • Backfilling loosely, so the edging rocks when stepped on.
  • Cutting corners on the marked line, which makes curves look lumpy.

FAQ

How deep should landscape edging be set?

Most edging should sit with its top flush to slightly above the lawn surface. Burying it too deep weakens the border and makes the edge look sunken.

How far apart should stakes be placed?

Many manufacturers suggest spacing stakes roughly every 12 to 18 inches on straight runs, with one at each joint. Follow the instructions for your specific product.

Can I lay edging over an existing lawn edge?

It’s better to remove the old edge and set the new edging in a fresh trench. Laying it on top of grass or old sod leaves a weak base and a line that shifts over time.

Conclusion

Laying landscape edging comes down to a clean plan, a level trench at the right depth, and secure staking. Take your time on the marked line and the level checks, since those steps decide how the border looks for years. With a sound base and proper backfill, your lawn edge will stay crisp through every season of mowing.

Ready to choose one?

Caleb Morgan

About Caleb Morgan

Caleb Morgan is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our lawn edging & trimming guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.