Installing lawn edging is one of the most satisfying ways to sharpen the look of a garden. A crisp edge stops grass from creeping into flower beds, keeps mulch in place, and makes mowing easier. But the result depends on having the right tools for each step, from marking the line to securing the edging material. This guide walks you through the practical kit you need, drawing on advice from the Royal Horticultural Society, the University of Illinois Extension, and tool safety manuals. For a broader look at all edging tools, see our edging tools section, and for a comprehensive overview of manual and power edgers, read our lawn edging tools pillar article.
Marking Out the Edge
The first step is to decide on the shape and mark it clearly on the ground. The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) explains that straight edges create a formal look, while curved edges give a more natural feel and help break up long, rectangular gardens. For a straight line, the RHS recommends tying a string between two canes or pegs so the string is taut and at ground level. If the edge is long, you can push the tines of a hand or border fork either side of the string to hold it down. For curved edges, the RHS suggests using something flexible like a garden hose, rope, or string to trace the desired shape. Once the line is laid out, view it from different angles, including from an upstairs window if possible, and adjust until you are happy with the positioning.
Cutting the Edge
With the line marked, you need a tool that can slice cleanly through turf and soil. The RHS advises using a half-moon edging tool or a flat-backed spade. A half-moon edger has a curved, sharp blade with a flat top that you can stand on to push it fully into the ground. If you use a flat-backed spade, the RHS recommends marking a depth of 7.5 cm (3 in) on the blade with tape and inserting it to that depth. Work your way along the line, taking small steps and overlapping each cut slightly to create a continuous edge. This method produces a neat, defined border. For more on manual cutting tools, see our guide to manual lawn edgers.
Lifting the Turf
After cutting, you need to remove the unwanted grass and soil. The RHS says to go back along the line and pull up narrow strips of grass by hand. For larger pieces, slide the blade of a spade underneath to lift them. The lifted turf can be composted: pop it in a compost bin or, if you have a lot, stack it in a separate pile to rot down into soil. Walk down the line and check it from both ends; if necessary, cut out further pieces with your edging tool until the edge looks neat and even.
Edging Materials and Fixings
Once the edge is cut, many gardeners install a physical barrier to keep the shape and reduce maintenance. Rhonda Ferree, a horticulture educator with University of Illinois Extension, notes that edging should blend in with the landscape, minimize hand trimming, and help contain mulches. She explains that plastic edging is common because it is inexpensive and easy to install, but it has poor durability and can be frustrating to keep in the ground. To stabilize flat plastic edging, Ferree recommends nailing a 1 x 1 inch strip of treated wood along the bottom of each strip where possible, using galvanized nails. For frost-prone areas, she says that most frost heaving can be stopped by using grooved or lip-style edging, steel anchoring stakes, and proper installation procedures. For more on plastic edging options, visit our plastic lawn edging guide.
Using a Power Edger
A power edger can speed up the job, especially along long straight runs like driveways or sidewalks. The Lawnmaster 21V cordless edger manual emphasizes that safety gear is essential: always wear eye protection, hearing protection, non-slip safety shoes, and heavy-duty gloves. Long trousers and sturdy footwear are recommended, and loose clothing or jewelry should be avoided. The manual states that the operator should keep bystanders, children, and pets at least 15 m away from the work area and turn off the tool if anyone enters that zone. Before starting, clear the area of wires, sticks, stones, and debris that could be thrown by the blade. The edger should not be used on wet grass or in rainy conditions. The Lawnmaster model has a blade cutting depth of 37 to 52 mm, and the manufacturer advises cutting at a steady pace; if the blade bogs down, slow down rather than forcing it into the ground. Always remove the battery pack before adjusting, cleaning, or changing the blade. These safety rules are specific to that model, so if you use a different power edger, follow the instructions in your own tool’s manual.
Before You Dig: Call 811
Any project that involves digging, including installing lawn edging, requires a call to 811. According to the national 811 service, you should contact 811 or visit your state 811 center’s website a few business days before you begin digging. The service is free and arranges for the approximate location of buried utilities to be marked with paint or flags. You will need to provide the address, county, nearest cross street, the type of project, and the exact area where you plan to dig. After making the request, wait a few days for all utilities to respond and mark their lines. The 811 service warns that some utilities can be buried just inches below the surface, so even shallow digging requires this step. Once the marks are in place, dig carefully around them and consider relocating any part of your project that falls too close to a utility line.
Putting It All Together: A Checklist
Here is a practical checklist to keep your edging installation on track:
- Mark the edge with string and pegs for straight lines, or a hose or rope for curves (RHS).
- Cut along the line with a half-moon edger or a flat-backed spade marked to 7.5 cm (3 in) depth (RHS).
- Lift and remove turf with a spade, and compost the waste (RHS).
- If using plastic edging, stabilize it with galvanized nails and a treated wood strip, or choose grooved edging with steel anchoring stakes (University of Illinois Extension).
- If using a power edger, wear eye and ear protection, sturdy footwear, and gloves, and keep bystanders at least 15 m away (Lawnmaster manual).
- Contact 811 a few business days before digging and wait for utility marks before breaking ground (811).
Frequently asked questions
What is the best tool for cutting a straight lawn edge?
The Royal Horticultural Society recommends a half-moon edging tool or a flat-backed spade. A half-moon edger allows you to stand on the blade for a clean, deep cut, while a spade can be marked with tape at 7.5 cm (3 in) to guide the depth.
Do I need to call 811 before installing lawn edging?
Yes. The 811 service advises that anyone planning to dig should contact 811 a few business days in advance, even for shallow projects like edging. Buried utilities can be just inches below the surface, and the free marking service helps you avoid damaging them.
How do I keep plastic edging from popping out of the ground?
According to the University of Illinois Extension, flat plastic edging can be stabilized by nailing a 1 x 1 inch strip of treated wood along the bottom with galvanized nails. Using grooved or lip-style edging with steel anchoring stakes also helps prevent frost heaving and keeps the edging in place.
For more detailed guides on specific edging projects, visit our installation tools page.
