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6 Edging Tips for Curb Appeal

Posted by Christine Crandall on Feb 8, 2019 10:17:04 PM

A well-groomed yard requires regular mowing and weed prevention, and it needs clean edges to keep it looking sharp. Edging can be a simple task with the proper tools and preparation, but it always requires attention to detail. A lackadaisical approach will yield negative results and leave your yard as an eyesore. A careful edging strategy with the right tools and techniques will show the world that you care about your property. A few days ago we posted edging as a spring activity to get your winter yard ready for spring. Here are some edging tips to get that curb appeal you desire:

edging

6 Edging Tips for Curb Appeal

1. Use Pre-existing lines:

One of the easiest places to edge is anywhere that is next to sidewalk or other borders that can be used as a guide. A clear line of edging between the border and the grass is visually appealing. Don’t neglect to edge just because a barrier exist. Edging along sidewalks and other barriers makes the yard look professionally manicured.

2. Mark Lines:

Freehand edging without marked lines can lead to diagonal lines where they should not be. Use a can of spray paint or a chalk line to mark where you want to edge, and let that mark be your guide. Don’t be afraid to change your mind. If you later decide it would make more sense to edge around a mowing obstacle, do it. Being flexible will ensure the edging is optimal.

3. Use the Right Tools:

Don’t use a shovel to edge. Maybe you’ve done it before, and it turned out okay, but it isn’t ideal. Using a rounded blade does not create sharp lines, and you make more work for yourself trying to make it straight.

4. Sharpen your Tools:

Work smart, not hard. Sharpening your tools will make your life easier, which will give you the fortitude to do a great job. Dull tools will only leave dull edges and sore arms.

5. Watch out for Irrigation:

Call before you dig is not really an option for irrigation pipes that were laid by contractors or previous homeowners. With that said, there may be irrigation pipes or even electrical wires buried under your turf. Be careful! That’s all you can do. Just be aware of the possibilities and watch out for them.

6. 90 Degree Angle:

Possibly the most important thing you can do when edging is cut at a 90-degree angle. This makes a sharp edge, but more importantly, it disrupts the rhizomes that make that grass creep into your garden. Fully disrupting the rhizomes will discourage the grass from moving back in that direction. It will eventually find its way back, but you want your edge to last as long as possible.

There are multiple edging tools you can use (half-moon, rotary, motorized), but what they all have in common is that they give your yard that sharp look that makes your grass look like it belongs on the cover of a magazine. Get perfection with these awesome edging tips.

Topics: edging