Edging

Choosing the Right Landscape Edging: Pros and Cons of Metal, Plastic, Aluminum & Natural Borders

June 30, 20253 min read

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🌿 A Complete Guide to Landscape Edging Materials

1. 💡 Why Edging Matters

Landscape edging is essential for creating clean, defined separation between your lawn, garden beds, and walkways. It helps contain mulch, prevent grass intrusion, and gives your yard a refined, polished look. Whether you're aiming for modern elegance or natural charm, the right edging makes all the difference.

2. 🛠️ Landscape Edging Options – Pros & Cons

Steel Edging

  • ✅ Extremely durable and long-lasting

  • ✅ Great at holding clean lines and curves

  • ✅ Low maintenance once installed

  • ❌ Heavier and more expensive than other options

  • ❌ May require professional installation

  • 💡 Best for: High-end borders, long-term installs, crisp curves

    Colmet 8 ft. x 14-Gauge x 4 in. Black Steel Landscape Edging AS814-4BK

Aluminum Edging

  • ✅ Lightweight and rust-resistant

  • ✅ Easy to bend and shape around curves

  • ✅ Easier for DIY installation than steel

  • ❌ Can bend under pressure (mowers or foot traffic)

  • ❌ Less rigid than steel over time

  • 💡 Best for: DIY projects, curved garden beds, low-rust zones

    Landscape Edging, 24 ft, Silver, Aluminum EasyFlex 1806ML-24C

Plastic / PVC Edging

  • ✅ Affordable and widely available

  • ✅ Flexible for curves and simple shapes

  • ✅ Quick to install, often no digging required

  • ❌ May shift, crack, or fade over time

  • ❌ Less professional look than metal edging

  • 💡 Best for: Budget-conscious installs, beginner-friendly edging

Vigoro 60 ft. No-Dig Plastic Landscape Edging Kit 3001-60HD-3

Natural (Trench-Cut) Edging

  • ✅ No material cost — just a spade and some effort

  • ✅ Blends seamlessly into natural landscapes

  • ✅ Easy to mow over for a clean lawn line

  • ❌ Requires seasonal maintenance to stay sharp

  • ❌ Doesn’t prevent mulch or gravel from spreading

  • 💡 Best for: Organic garden styles, low-cost borders, flexible layouts

Live/Natural edging : r/landscaping


Concrete or Paver Edging

  • ✅ Provides a clean, upscale, and permanent look

  • ✅ Extremely durable and weather-resistant

  • ✅ Works well as a mow strip or transition from hardscape to garden

  • ❌ Higher upfront cost and labor-intensive installation

  • ❌ Not easily adjustable once installed

  • 💡 Best for: Formal landscapes, patios, walkways, and modern garden transitions

Flower Bed Edging Stone - Houston, 77493

3. 🔍 Material Deep Dive

Steel Edging (Including Corten, Galvanized, Stainless)

Aluminum Edging

Plastic / PVC Edging

Natural (Trench) Edging

Concrete & Paver Edging

  • Pros: Visually strong, doubles as a mowing strip, matches patios/walkways

  • Cons: Requires a solid base, higher labor/material cost, not adjustable once set


4. ✅ Choosing the Right Edging for Your Project


5. 🛠️ Installation & Maintenance Tips

  • Bury edging ½″–1″ above grade to avoid mower contact

  • Secure all edging tightly with stakes or anchors

  • Compact the soil or gravel base before installing concrete/paver edging

  • Re-shape trench edges at least once per season for clean lines

  • With plastic or aluminum, ensure clean joints and proper depth for stability.


6. 🔚 Final Thoughts

Landscape edging isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about structure, function, and long-term yard health. From classic steel lines to natural curves, modern pavers to budget-friendly plastic, there’s an edging solution for every project, every budget, and every style.

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