Homeowners are always trying to find that hidden edge, that special something that can help their properties stand out. At GreenPro we take a 360-degree approach to property and landscape design, which means we look at every aspect of our client’s homestead to see what we can improve.
One of the secrets we wanted to share with you as you think about how to make the most of your own property or landscape is something that may have escaped your notice. That special something? Lawn edging.
Lawn (or garden) edging can often mean the difference between a yard that looks messy and unkempt and a yard that looks like a well-tended, relaxing entertainment space. (Think of it as the difference between a fresh haircut and one that’s been neglected a while.) Uneven or broken lawn edges aren’t aesthetically pleasing and can ruin the nice look of an otherwise carefully landscaped yard. By contrast, lawn borders help you visually separate different areas of your yard, for a more stylish and tidy feel. You can use lawn edging to highlight a flower bed, separate the lawn from an alley, or simply add texture to your outdoor space – front yard or back.
Thankfully, the art of lawn edging is easy to master; all homeowners need are a few inexpensive materials, an ounce of creativity, and a free weekend.
Natural Stone
There are many ready-made materials available on the market that can help you address how best to edge your lawn, but some of the best materials are still the ones provided by Mother Earth, like river rocks or small pebbles. These small, natural elements can give your yard an immediate sense of organic boundary without a feeling of obtrusive, man-made construction. Those who want to pursue a natural look can use both small and large river stones to create a dapper border that makes for a smooth transition between your lawn and flower beds.
Edge Benches
If you have the resources, an edge bench is perfect, giving your garden a rustic edge while also creating more seating space. Stone and wood are the most common elements; you can use old wood, just make sure to sand it down and treat for a more polished finish.
Grass Edging
If you want to delineate your lawn from a walkway, metal dividers are pretty easy to install. It’s a simple way to separate your lawn from your walkway while allowing your garden greenery to pop.
Brick Edging
A square brick edge can give your lawn area a refined touch. Whether playing around with the shape of your plant area or getting different colored bricks to make your property look playful, a brick edge instantly defines the boundary between grass and garden, adding a lovely accent. Plus, bricks are versatile, affordable, and frost-resistant (so important for our Oklahoma winters!).
Tall Metal
For those who may be looking for a more modern feel, a tall, metal edge gives your yard an industrial look and also works great with larger plants and bushes. If you dig the industrial vibe, dark-colored mulch is the way to go, as it ensures that both the edge and the plants will pop.
Wooden Borders
An elegant wooden frame can set off a garden nicely, especially if you add smooth stones which will accent the greenery. Consider integrating a few stylish solar garden lanterns in between your plants to create a cozy atmosphere at night. Large pots can also help break up any monochromatic color in the design.
Simple Border Fence
We get it – not everyone has the time or energy for a more ambitious edging. But for those who are looking for something efficient, a black wire fence can provide a practical, yet stylish solution. Easy to install, it draws the eye to the garden without dominating the field of vision. There are numerous design options out there; find the one that’s best for your space!
Pebble Lawn Edge
Sometimes the best way to edge two spaces is to change the texture. Pebbles can add an attractive finishing touch to your lawn or flower beds, as well as ensure a smoother visual transition from your lawn to your porch. However, loose pebbles can become untidy, so consider using basic plastic edging between your lawn and your rocks to keep them in place.
These are just a few suggestions we have for how to edge off the different sections of your landscape design. While many of these are DIY projects, we do recommend working with a specialist who can help you make sure your overall landscape design is well-integrated. That’s part of what we do at GreenPro – working with our clients to ensure their home shines in all the ways they dream. Give us a call today – we’d love to work with you!