'So Much Neater' - 10 Lawn Edging Ideas To Add A Professional Finish To Your Backyard

Everyone needs some standout lawn edging ideas in their life to make the best of that neglected weed-filled strip between the lawn and flowerbeds, paths or decks. The best edging ideas make everything seem much smarter and help to finish your landscaping so it looks like it was designed by a pro.

There are many types of lawn edging ideas and materials to choose from, whether you're seeking a modern and contemporary backyard look or something a little more traditional. So it's a good idea to get some expert advice from us to help you refine your choices before you begin.

This is a straightforward update that can be done in hours and will elevate the look of your lawn to a whole new level. We've pulled together some of our favorite looks to give you a headstart.

lawn edging ideas for front yard

10 inspirational ways to edge lawns

'Lawn-edging is a crucial aspect of garden design, as it not only delineates boundaries but also adds a touch of order and definition to the overall landscape,' says landscape architect Rituparna Simlai of Studio Arth, which is based in the Coconut Grove area of Miami.

'One of the key functions of lawn-edging is to curb the spread of plant material, ensuring that plants remain within their designated space. Edges are also important when using materials like mulch or gravel if you are creating a retaining wall. It particularly helps contain the soil when creating different levels and elevations in the garden.'

Now take your pick from our inspirational lawn edging ideas to work out a new look.

1. Corten metal

corten lawn edging, hedges and flowers

'A favorite edging option for us at Studio Arth is elegant corten metal,' says Rituparna Simlai. 'Its versatility allows it to be bent or curved to accommodate the specific needs of the design, giving us the flexibility to create dynamic and fluid landscapes. We often vary the heights of the edge, introducing playful levels that can double as planters or retaining walls, further elevating the visual appeal of the garden.'

With its weathered finish corten metal blends beautifully with both natural and man-made landscaping materials, and adds a natural warm hue to your landscaping ideas. It works well as a contrasting material if you want to add a water element such as a rill to your lawn edging ideas.

2. Sharply defined borders

lawn edge restraints

'Borders and edging can make a huge impact on the overall look of your lawn,' says Joe Raboine, vice president of design at hardscaping experts Belgard. 'There are several options you can choose from to add the right kind of edging that suits both your yard and personal style.'

Edge restraints are a rigid paver edging system that allows you to create defined borders around an area, including those that are angular or have curves. 'These systems can easily be covered with mulch or sod so everything blends seamlessly to create a nice clean look. Most edge restraints can be adjusted for size and flexibility,' says Joe. Galvanized spikes hold the restraints in place to prevent future movement.

3. Neat metal edging

section of lawn with metal edging and gravel

If you're looking for a fuss-free material, metal edging may be best. A short, sleek, steel edge like this one will instantly add definition to your lawn area and help smarten up your yard overall. With a wide variety of powder-coated designs available, you can also pick a color that complements your existing scheme.

Proper lawn edging keeps your lawn neat and tidy and can prevent grass from encroaching on flower beds and walkways. 'There are a variety of materials for such projects, but I always advise my clients to take into account the general aesthetic appeal, as well as the edging height, maintenance requirements, and specific application needs,' says Alex K Worley, a certified master gardener and landscaping expert at Gardenine, based in Kent, Washington.

When used correctly, metal edging is durable and can last many years, ideal for a low maintenance garden. 'We often use metal strips for defining clean lines between the lawn and adjacent areas,' says Alex.

4. Rustic woven look

woven hazel edging in naturalistic planting scheme

If you love naturalistic garden landscaping you may prefer a more organic feel for your lawn edging ideas. Low wicker, willow and hazel woven panels add a charming aesthetic and are so quick and easy to install as they can simply be pushed into the ground. The panels can also be gently coaxed into a slight curve if a more shaped look is required.

This type of edging offers a rustic feeling solution for defining your garden space while merging seamlessly with nature. It works well as a lawn border in cottage style gardens and looks good used to create a boundary between a lawn area and flower beds with relaxed perennial planting.

5. Smart evergreen hedging

lawn with evergreen hedging

Evergreen shrubs are a natural fit for lawn edging ideas. They provide essential, year round structure, and are a useful way of delineating boundaries naturally when shaped into low hedging.

If you're looking for inspiration make classic boxwood your go-to for lawn edging ideas. This evergreen is perfect for creating a low hedge boundary that looks elegant and will add a tidy, manicured appearance that doesn't need much maintenance.

Landscaping with boxwood works for both formal and classic or contemporary and modernist looks. It will soon settle in and seem like it's been there edging your lawn for ever.

Dwarf boxwood hedge

Price: $59.99Likes: full sun or partial shade

6. Stacked rocks

lawn edging with rocks

Bordering your lawn with an edging of rocks is an easy landscaping choice that is practical too. It will keep the soil and plants in raised flower beds tidy as well as preventing the lawn encroaching into planted areas and making things look messy.

There is a great choice of landscaping rocks available in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. This means you can customize your own lawn edging ideas to fit with the look of the rest of your space.

Try layering large flat stones into a loose 'wall' to create stacked edging. This is an easy build as the weight of the stones will keep everything in place, so you don't need to use mortar. The best rocks for this style of edging include limestone, sandstone, and granite.

7. Terracotta trim

terracotta lawn edging

A traditional edging detail in terracotta will enhance your lawn area and indeed the rest of your yard, particularly if you live in an older style property. As well as scalloped designs there are a range of other decorative finishes available including twisted rope, scrolled, hooped and other Victorian-inspired patterns.

With its warm copper tones and natural texture, terracotta is the preferred material for many when it comes to garden landscaping projects. Terracotta edging is porous, allowing water and air to pass through easily. It will age beautifully and soon weather in to your garden design

Find ornately pattern antique terracotta edging at the salvage yard or buy it new. Either way it will provide an instant antique feel to your landscaping.

8. Reclaimed bricks

brick lawn edging

Use traditional bricks as part of your lawn edging ideas and it will add a beautifully rustic vibe to your garden landscaping. Choose reclaimed bricks from the salvage yard or let natural weathering, moss and crevice creepers naturalize the look of new ones to add that vintage feel.

Bricks are a great choice to keep lawn edges intact, and installation is relatively simple although you will need to prep the space properly and use mortar. You can lay your chosen bricks in a narrow trench on their side, lying flat with the wider side down, or standing upright to create the perfect divide between your hardscaping and the lawn.

There's more good news in that bricks are one of the most versatile choices for lawn edging ideas. You can customize the width of your edging border to your exact specifications, as they come in so many shapes and sizes.

9. Creative lighting

lawn edging lighting idea

Recessed lights dropped into decking planks are a good idea for lawn edging as well as for lighting your way. Add a colored glow by installing LEDs as part of a contemporary lawn edging idea that will create a stylish effect. The latest LEDs offer designer looks, including lights that change color and systems that can be controlled via your smart phone.

Here's another lawn edging lighting idea. 'Ditch traditional edging and lay a charming path of stepping stones around your lawn's perimeter. Bonus points if they glow in the dark, as they will create a magical garden walkway at night,' suggest Jacky Chou, principal and director at home and design space Archute.Com. 'This will make your garden feel like a secret pathway to an enchanted realm.'

10. Decorative double edging

lawn edging design with stones

An easy design feature to consider for a more landscaped look is to create a double border using two different materials as part of your lawn edging ideas.

In this design a distinctive edging of gray cobble stones has been laid to create a lawn boundary that's practical as well as looking good. These versatile edging stones are available in many different styles and colors, but we particularly like the look of weathered ones from the salvage yard.

Double up the stone edging idea with a decorative second layer such as a trim of white river rocks. These work well if you're looking for a crisp modern edge for an urban yard design featuring clipped shrubs.

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Aerating Your Lawn: Everything You Should Know About This Landscape Game-Changer

Aeration could be the answer to your prayers for a healthier, greener lawn.

There are a lot of things you can do to beautify your lawn. You can give it a little edging action for a crisp border, routinely re-seed it for a fuller look, and treat it with a nice dose of fertilizer. Aerating your lawn is another option, and it's a simple task that can make a world of difference in both the health and appearance of your lawn. We're diving into what aerating is and why it's important, and offering a step-by-step guide on how to aerate your lawn.

Related: Should You Resod or Reseed Your Lawn?

What Is Lawn Aeration?

Aeration is a process that loosens compacted soil in order to allow water, air, and nutrients to better access the roots. This is typically done with a mechanical core aerator that's pushed over the lawn and leaves a trail of holes in its path.

"There are two main types of aerators: plug and spike," says Justin Urbanek, product manager for John Deere Zero-Turn Mowers. "A plug aerator removes a core of soil and then deposits it on top of your lawn. A spike aerator punctures the ground providing a path for nutrients to access the roots."

Urbanek argues that core aeration is more effective since it provides a larger path for nutrients. He says it also tends to break up compacted soil more effectively compared to spike aeration.

Why Is Aeration Important?

Over time, your lawn naturally becomes more compacted due to foot traffic, mowing, and other activities. In other words, the soil becomes denser and harder, which can impact the grass quality.

"Compaction seals off nutrients from the air, water, and fertilizer [and keeps it] from reaching the root zone of the plant," explains Craig Elworthy, founder of Lawnbright. "Aeration decreases the soil density, and helps those nutrients reach the roots where they are untaken by the plant."

Without aeration, your lawn can weaken and thin out over time. As another benefit, aeration helps reduce thatch buildup in your lawn. Thatch is a layer of dead root mass and dead grass that builds up over time and chokes off the lawn, which also robs it of water and nutrients.

"Aeration helps manage that buildup by pulling a core and depositing it on the top of the lawn surface where it can be swept up and removed, or allowed to be broken down by microorganisms," Elworthy notes.  The end result of aeration is a thicker lawn with a deeper, healthier root system.

Does My Lawn Need Aeration?

Aeration is obviously a game-changer for a wayward grass situation, but does every lawn require aeration? While most lawns can benefit from aeration, some need it more than others. Elworthy says that aeration is more important for clay soils that are prone to compaction.

"You can test for yourself if your soil is compacted by doing the screwdriver test," Elworthy says. "Just find a screwdriver—preferably the largest one you have—and put it into the soil in a few places in your lawn. If it's really difficult to get all the way down, your lawn could benefit from an aeration."

When to Aerate Your Lawn

If you determine that your lawn needs aeration, Urbanek recommends doing it during peak growing season when your grass is already at its healthiest. This is typically in late spring or early fall. Urbanek says that your lawn will recover more quickly when it is not stressed from heat, drought, or winter freeze.

As for timing, Urbanek says that once a year is usually enough for most lawns. If your lawn is heavily compacted, then a twice-annual aeration may be beneficial. "For sandy soils or healthy lawns, every two to three years may be adequate," he adds.

Step By Step: How to Aerate Your Lawn

Once you've got the right tools on hand, aerate your lawn is pretty straightforward. You'll need a lawnmower and a core aerator. If you don't own one, Urbanek says there are powered, walk-behind aerators you can rent from your local home improvement store. If you already own a riding lawnmower with a hitch, you can add a tow-behind aerator.

Step 1: Water Deeply One Week Out: "Starting a week or so out, start deeply watering your lawn," Elworthy says. "The point of this is to help soften the soil to help with the aeration."

Step 2: Mow Your Lawn: Mow your lawn the same day you plan to aerate. Elworthy recommends mowing an inch or two lower than you usually do and bagging all the clippings.

Step 3: Mark Obstacles: Take a moment to mark any sprinkler heads or electrical wiring so you can steer clear of these things when aerating. Urbanek says to also "mark shallow underground plumbing and utilities, stones, tree roots, or any other items so they can be avoided to avoid damage."

Step 4: Aerate: Using your aerator attachment or device, go over the lawn in two to three different directions. "The more holes the better," says Elworthy. Note that core aeration leaves cores of soil on the surface of your lawn. Leave these in place to break down and return nutrients to the surface of your yard.

Step 5: Fertilize (Optional) After aerating is a great time to apply a liquid fertilizer or sea kelp since your lawn is nice and open. This helps speed up the recovery and supercharges your results. 

Related: The Best Time to Water Grass for a Greener Lawn—and Less Water Waste

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The Best Lawn Edgers Tested In 2023

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.

Photo: Mark Wolfe for Bob Vila

Whether your yard is large or small, minimally landscaped or filled with flower beds, one of the easiest ways to tame unruly edges and keep it looking manicured is to invest in a reliable lawn edger. We carefully researched and then tested some of the best lawn edgers to help you decide which will work best for your landscape and lifestyle.

Similar to how a picture frame enhances artwork, an evenly trimmed yard perimeter elevates the overall appearance of a lawn. Crisp edges signify a well-tended property, especially along driveways, sidewalks, garden beds, and walkways.

Simplify your search by identifying your property's needs and matching them to our list. We field-tested popular lawn edgers on our curbs, landscape beds, and driveway edges. Review our roundup to find performance details and the best lawn edger tool for your yard.

BEST OVERALL: Echo PE-225 Gas Lawn Edger

BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Greenworks 12 Amp 7.5-Inch Corded Lawn Edger

UPGRADE PICK: McLane 9-Inch Gas-Powered Lawn Edger

BEST GAS: Craftsman E410 30cc 4-Cycle 9-Inch Gas Lawn Edger

BEST CORDLESS: DeWalt 60V MAX 7½-Inch Brushless Edger Kit

BEST ELECTRIC: Black+Decker LE760FF AC Lawn Edger

BEST MANUAL: True Temper Dual-Wheel Rotary Edger

BEST FOR SMALL YARDS: Worx 12 Amp 7.5-Inch Electric Lawn Edger

BEST FOR LANDSCAPE BEDS: Razorback Half-Moon Turf Edger With Wood Handle

Photo: Mark Wolfe for Bob Vila

How We Tested the Best Lawn Edgers

We wanted to run these tools through real-world scenarios, such as basic grass edge maintenance along pavement, trenching along landscape bed edges, and digging into new ground as needed for bed-line definition. The test yard offered a good mix, with a driveway edge that needed only edging maintenance, a curb line with an overgrown edge, and several landscape beds with edges that varied from moderately well defined to poorly defined.

To make our list, an edge trimmer had to function well in every location based on the projects for which they were designed. For instance, plug-in electric edgers are designed for maintaining existing edges in small landscapes and are not expected to be used for digging into unbroken soil for extended periods. On the other hand, gas-powered walk-behind models are intended for both detailed trim work and clean, powerful groundbreaking during long hours of work.

Our Top Picks

After researching and testing more than 30 lawn edgers, we chose the products below based on their overall quality and efficacy. Our selection process favored important product factors like tool type and features, power source, user comfort, safety, and price. To make the cut, each tool successfully navigated our hands-on edger testing program. Check out the product descriptions for performance details.

Photo: amazon.Com

Detailing the lawn with precision calls for specialized equipment like the Echo PE-225 lawn edger. This lightweight gas edger delivers pro-quality results without the extra weight and expense of pro-grade equipment, which is why we selected it as our top pick.

This handheld edger is

We found that the Echo PE-225 was compact, lightweight, easy to operate, and easy to store. We started by mixing a fresh batch of 50:1 2-cycle fuel. The manufacturer's instructions called for 89-octane or higher gasoline. The edger came with enough 2-cycle oil to mix with 1 gallon of gas. The 12.8-ounce fuel tank held more than enough to edge the entire test property three times. Those with small yards should consider using a fuel stabilizer to protect the engine from gum and varnish buildup associated with stored fuel.

As an edger for lawn maintenance, the PE-225 is ideal, but it's not the best for digging new edges or renovating neglected ones. The 2-cycle engine produced higher revolutions per minute and lower torque than the 4-cycle edgers on the walk-behind units we tested, which translated to faster blade speed for crisp cutting action, but less power to dig into compacted soil and roots. Even so, it did a fair job in compact soil but was not as proficient as the bigger, heavier machines. The handheld design makes it easy to maneuver along curbs, driveways, patios, and landscape beds and is suitable for all landscape types and sizes.

The runtime on a single tank of fuel (1.5 hours) outperformed all of the battery-powered edgers we tested. That said, the potential for engine damage from stale fuel is real. Our test was on a large suburban lot with a long driveway, patio, walkout basement slab, and numerous landscape beds—an ideal scenario for a gas edger. Those with only a limited amount of lawn edging might be better off without mixing and storing gasoline. But for the widest range of adaptability and top-end user comfort, it's hard to beat this edger.

Product Specs 

Type: Handheld

Power source: 21.2cc 2-cycle gas engine

Weight: 13.1 pounds

Pros

Lightweight curved-shaft design positions operator close to the grass for excellent precision and maneuverability

Professional-grade 2-cycle engine equipped with easy-start system reduces starting effort and boosts durability

Molded open-face debris shield reduces debris clogs and kickback

Captive wheel mount allows for easy height adjustment

Cons

Requires 2-cycle fuel: 89-octane (or higher) gasoline mixed 50:1 with 2-cycle oil

Get the Echo lawn edger at Amazon, The Home Depot, Acme Tools, or Mowers Direct.

Photo: amazon.Com

This corded electric lawn edger is a great choice for small yards. It features a 12-amp engine and an extension cord with a cord-lock feature that prevents accidental unplugging. It weighs 14 pounds, but a portion of this weight is supported by a pair of back wheels and a single guide wheel that can be adjusted in height to change the depth of the cut.

The 7.5-inch double-edged steel blade of the Greenworks lawn edger is capable of cutting grass cleanly and smoothly to a maximum depth of 2.25 inches. You can also adjust the length of the shaft so that it better suits your height. When the lawn edger is properly adjusted and you're ready to go, just pushing in the trigger lock switch unlocks the trigger.

We found this corded electric edger to be a rock-solid performer at a bargain price. Like the other corded electric models we tested, this Greenworks unit performed best in a maintenance setting but lacked power and size for trenching unbroken soil. It is lightweight and articulate, and an excellent choice for smaller yards.

Product Specs 

Type: Handheld

Power source: Corded 12-amp electric motor

Weight: 14 pounds

Pros

You can adjust edging/trenching depths depending on the task at hand

Adjustable handle height can accommodate the heights of most users

Aggressive double-edge blade can cut thick and thin plant and grass types

Cons

No edge guide makes it somewhat difficult to get started

Height adjustment is somewhat awkward

Best for edging pavement; not as effective for landscape beds

Get the Greenworks lawn edger at Amazon or Lowe's.

Photo: amazon.Com

The McLane walk-behind lawn edger draws considerable power from its 127cc gas engine with a maximum power output of 3.5 horsepower (hp). It easily powers through unbroken soil to redefine or create new edge lines. However, the powerful gas engine does increase the weight of the tool to 66 pounds, which may be too heavy for some users. To help manage the weight of the machine, it is built on a heavy-duty frame with four 7-inch wheels to balance and support the gas-powered lawn edger.

This edger has handlebars extending up from the frame to two padded handles, allowing you to push and maneuver the edger like you would a lawn mower. The flat rectangular cutting blade can reach a depth of 4.5 inches as an edging tool, but it can also be set up to cut horizontally as a trimmer, taking care of more than one yard maintenance task with a single tool.

The McLane lawn edger was by far the most powerful and adjustable edger we tested. It tracked well along the pavement, articulated around curved bed lines, and cut through heavy clay soil to renovate old bed edges. For those with lots of edging to maintain, this tool can do it all.

Product Specs 

Type: Walk behind

Power source: 127cc, 4-cycle gas engine

Weight: 66.3 pounds

Pros

Fast blade speed with high torque; grass edger suitable for thin or thick grass and varieties

Compact frame for easy storage in a shed or garage space

Easy to start the engine

Adjustable working height for comfort and blade angle to cut vertically or horizontally

Cons

Heavyweight construction, so can be harder to maneuver compared to similar models

Bulkier and louder than electric edgers

Some assembly required and may require more than 1 set of hands to complete

Get the McLane lawn edger at Amazon.

Photo: amazon.Com

Those looking for the power and comfort of a walk-behind gas edger with the compact size and maneuverability of a handheld will want to take a close look at the Craftsman E410 lawn edger. It comes equipped with a 30cc 4-cycle engine that runs cleaner than a 2-cycle engine, eliminates the need to mix fuel, and produces higher torque to power through heavy soil and dense roots.

At just 25 pounds, this was the lightest walk-behind lawn edger we tested by a wide margin and only about 10 pounds heavier than most of the handhelds. The light weight and compact size made it easier to navigate off pavement than the other walk-behind edgers, and it could easily be stored on a wall hook.

We started by filling the motor oil reservoir and fueling up with regular gas. The two-step starting process was easy; we depressed the primer bulb a few times, and the engine started on the third pull. No choking was necessary. A clutch lever on the handlebar controlled the blade. In action, the Craftsman E410 felt strong and capable in all soil types, but less aggressive than bigger walk-behind models we tested. It made clean lines in established edges and tackled tough compacted soil without difficulty.

In some tight locations, such as approaching an inside corner where the driveway intersects the curb, our visibility was somewhat restricted, but we managed to navigate those spaces with little problem. We found a more difficult challenge while working in an area where the concrete street gutter directly adjoined the lawn edge (there was no curb). The fixed blade angle was not really compatible with the angle at which the machine operated, and the resulting edge was a bit less than perfect. On grass, it did a nice job tidying up landscape bed edges.

Product Specs 

Type: Walk behind

Power source: 30cc 4-cycle gas engine

Weight: 25 pounds

Pros

Walk-behind edger with a sturdy steel frame that reduces user fatigue during extended operation

30cc 4-cycle engine eliminates need to mix gas and oil, reduces noise, lessens emissions

No-choke engine streamlines startup to just 2 steps: prime and pull

3 transport wheels and 6 height settings provide outstanding stability and control

Cons

Bulkier than a handheld "stick" edger; requires more space for storage

3-wheel configuration is less convenient along a street gutter with no curb

Get the Craftsman lawn edger at Lowe's, Blain's Farm & Fleet, or The Buildclub.

Photo: amazon.Com

It should come as no surprise that a company with one of the best reputations for its cordless drills and saws produces a standout cordless lawn edger. The DeWalt 60-volt MAX brushless lawn edger incorporates a winning combination of high torque, fast blade speed, lengthy battery life, and excellent operator comfort.

The DeWalt battery edger kit features an efficient brushless powerhead run by an included 60-volt MAX 3.0-amp-hour (Ah) battery. The powerhead is compatible with universal attachments, like a string trimmer, brush cutter, hedge trimmer, and others (sold separately). This kit includes the lawn edger attachment with a curved-shaft 7.5-inch hardened steel blade, a heavy-duty plastic debris shield, and adjustable guide wheel. The variable-speed safety trigger and high/low power switch allow you to control power output for optimal battery life.

Anyone making the switch from a 2-cycle lawn edger to battery power will find familiar performance in the DeWalt 60V MAX lawn edger. Although the big battery made it a bit heavier than some of the others we tested, it delivered ample power and runtime to put a nice crisp edge over our entire test yard on a single charge, with plenty of battery life left. All that battery life could come in handy, whether to power other tool attachments or to share with the DeWalt self-propelled lawn mower.

Product Specs 

Type: Handheld

Power source: 60-volt MAX 3.0Ah rechargeable battery

Weight: 15.5 pounds

Pros

Long runtime helps users get more work done per charge; variable-speed settings conserve battery life

Adjustable-depth 7.5-inch hardened steel blade penetrates to 2.5 inches deep

Universal attachment-capable powerhead is compatible with string or hedge trimmers and other attachments

Powerhead is compatible with all DeWalt 20-volt and 60-volt MAX rechargeable batteries

Cons

Molded plastic blade guard feels somewhat lighter duty than the rest of the tool

Get the DeWalt lawn edger at Amazon, The Home Depot, Toolup.Com, or FAO.

Photo: amazon.Com

The plug-and-go Black+Decker serves not only as an edger but also as a trench digger. With a 12-amp electric engine that produces no emissions, this tool is useful for installing outdoor lighting, fencing, or when planting bushes and trees. The edger can be set to one of three possible cutting depths, with a maximum depth of 3.75 inches.

As an added safety feature, this trimmer-edger includes a built-in cord-retention system that keeps the extension cord in place to prevent users from tripping over it. The edger weighs 14.4 pounds, and it has an edging guide that helps to make clean cuts around hard surfaces like patios, walkways, and driveways.

We liked the way the Black+Decker edger tracked around tight landscape bed curves and straightaways along paved edges. It easily sliced through grass foliage and tough surface roots for a clean edge but was a bit undersized for digging into clay for bed-edge renovation.

Product Specs 

Type: Handheld

Power source: Corded 12-amp electric motor

Weight: 14.4 pounds

Pros

Compact build and lightweight construction for a tool that's easy to maneuver, lift, and store

Powerful electric motor can take on thin and thick grass and plant varieties

Adjustable handle height accommodates multiple user heights

Cons

Limited range due to corded motor; might not be ideal for large-scale tasks

Not as effective at creating new edges; best for maintenance

Get the Black+Decker lawn edger at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.

Photo: amazon.Com

In small lawns and gardens, it's easy to forego gas and electric lawn-care equipment by choosing quality manual tools. The True Temper rotary edger's time-tested dual-wheel design cuts cleanly through grass and roots for crisp lawn edges along driveways and patios, or to use as a sidewalk edger. The True Temper rotary edger uses a two-way self-sharpening blade to trim grass at the edges of pavement. Two rubber-treaded wheels and a 54-inch hardwood handle with a padded grip offer excellent control and user comfort. If you want that manicured look without the noise and emissions of power tools, this could be the right tool for you.

In our tests, the True Temper dual-wheel rotary edger did a fine job along the driveway, patio, and walkout basement pad. It was less effective along the curbless street gutter due to the rough edge of the concrete, and it was not really workable for the areas where lawn meets landscape beds. Where it worked, however, it worked well. Using the tool took more time than a powered edger, but it didn't really require that much more physical effort. You don't need to be super fit to use it.

Admittedly, by the time we tested this edger, the lawn edges were well defined and only needed routine maintenance. It only took about 5 minutes to edge both sides of a 70-foot-long driveway. We would expect slower and maybe less perfect results if we were starting with overgrown edges, but with established edges, this manual tool made for easy upkeep.

Product Specs 

Type: Handheld rotary edger

Power source: Manual

Weight: 3.9 pounds

Pros

Tried-and-true design maintains clean edges without electricity or gasoline

Self-sharpening serrated blades keep maintenance at a minimum

54-inch hardwood handle provides a comfortable grip for users of different sizes

Rubber wheel and cushioned grip offer excellent user comfort and control

Cons

Slow-going edging compared to powered lawn edgers, so it's best for small yards

Works best for maintaining edges; it's more difficult starting over on an unkept edge

Get the True Temper lawn edger at Amazon or Newegg.

Photo: amazon.Com

Connect this 12-amp corded electric lawn edger using an extension cord to edge the entire yard without having to worry about running out of battery or needing to refuel. The only limit to the range of the edger is the length of the extension cord, and this product even offers two bundled options that come with a 100-foot extension cord.

This edger has star-shaped cutting blades that can slice through sod, dirt, and roots at three different cutting depths to a maximum of 3.75 inches. It weighs only 14 pounds, and it has two wheels at the back of the tool for better balance, as well as a single wheel at the front of the tool for better control. The electric edger also has an adjustable auxiliary handle that is optimized to suit the specific needs of the user.

This Worx corded electric lawn edger weighs less than the other corded electric models we tested. Unlike those others, it trenched beds fairly well for landscape bed renovation, but it probably should not be used extensively for new bed construction. The handle and controls felt comfortable for extended use.

Product Specs 

Type: Handheld

Power source: Corded 12-amp electric motor

Weight: 14 pounds

Pros

Maximum depth setting works well for maintaining landscape bed edges

Adjustable shaft height can accommodate multiple user heights; prevents strain

Lightweight but powerful construction, allowing it to be maneuvered easily

Cons

Best for maintenance; not great for creating a new edge

The molded edge guard may interfere with uneven grass above the curbline

May need to order replacement blades from the manufacturer

Get the Worx lawn edger at Amazon or Lowe's.

Photo: amazon.Com

When it comes to manual tools, blade specialization is very helpful. The Razorback half-moon edger, or step edger, uses a heavy-duty steel blade that is essentially a semicircular garden spade. The blade measures 9.1 inches wide and 1.5 inches deep, with a sharpened edge along the full semicircle.

The half-moon edger was designed for creating natural edges of uniform depth where the lawn meets the landscape bed. The top edges of the heavy-duty blade are forward turned for secure footing, and the blade is paired with a strong 48-inch hardwood handle.

The Razorback half-moon edger did a beautiful job rejuvenating and extending our landscape beds, and renewing neglected edges along pavement. It worked best for edge-line creation and renovation of neglected edges. It's not well adapted for routine edge maintenance, where a fast blade is required to achieve clean-cut grass roots, stems, and blades. For that reason, it makes a perfect companion for the True Temper rotary edger, which is built for maintenance.

Product Specs 

Type: Handheld half-moon edger

Power source: Manual

Weight: 3.8 pounds

Pros

A 48-inch hardwood handle adds to strength and durability

Works equally well creating crisp curved or straight edges along landscape beds

Forward-turned step area provides secure foot placement

Heavy-gauge steel blade works in any type of soil, including rocky areas

Cons

Not as fast for bed-line maintenance as a gas- or electric-powered bed redefiner/edger

Get the Razorback lawn edger at Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, or A.M. Leonard. 

What to Consider When Choosing a Lawn Edger

Don't make a hasty decision about the best edger to landscape your garden and yard. There are several important considerations to keep in mind that can help you find the right lawn edger, including the power of the device, the blade type, the cutting width and depth, and included safety features to keep you protected while working.

Types of Lawn Edgers

There are many options to choose from when deciding on the best lawn edgers to keep the yard well maintained and weed-free. Edgers typically fall into three categories based on the power source: manual, electric, and gas.

Manual

Instead of relying on an electric- or gas-powered motor to get the job done, these manual lawn edgers are completely

Rotary edgers have a long wooden shaft that attaches to a cutting wheel. The tool looks like a pole with a spiked wheel on the end. They work by applying pressure to the cutting wheel and rolling it along the edge of the lawn to cut through the overextended turf.

Spade edgers resemble a shallow spade with a sharpened edge. To use, line up the bottom of the spade edger with the overextended turf and step down on the flat surface at the top of the blade to increase the force to cut through the sod, if necessary.

Shear edgers are handheld tools that are rarely used. These tools are intended for cleaning up small pieces of sod or making cuts in narrow corners where other edging tools cannot reach. However, they aren't suitable for edging the entire yard.

Motorized

If manually edging the lawn seems like a daunting task or if the goal is to not limit the war on weeds by physical endurance, then the best lawn edger may be motorized. There are two main kinds of motorized lawn edgers: ones with an electric motor and those

Electric lawn edgers are usually more budget-friendly and a more suitable tool for small yards. They're either battery-powered or plug into an electrical outlet via a lengthy cord. Though they only provide 18 or so volts of power, battery-operated models allow you to trim anywhere in the yard. Corded varieties offer more power (usually 10 to 12 amps), though they are slightly less mobility unless paired with an extension cord.

Gas-powered lawn edgers, available with a 2- or 4-cycle engine, boast considerable power and are better suited for larger yards. While 2-cycle engines are more common, users must replenish fuel and oil. They are far less environmentally conscious than 4-cycle engines, which run clean but cost and weigh more.

Power

When trying to decide on the best lawn edger for the yard, it's important to understand the power potential of these tools. Both gas and electric options offer comparable power output, but manual lawn edgers depend on the power exerted by the user.

Gas lawn edgers measure the power output in horsepower and the engine size in cubic centimeters. Typically, the higher the hp and cc, the more powerful the engine, creating significant differences in efficiency and cost, depending on the product.

Electric- and battery-powered lawn edgers rely on electric engines that are Blade Type

A straight no-frills blade can handle simple yards just fine, but an edger that offers multiple positions and angle settings may be a worthwhile investment if a property has a lot of flower beds and specialty features. The following are the three main types of edger blades:

Flat rectangular blades with plain edges are the most common among lawn edgers and are suitable for basic edging jobs where the lawn is flush and level with the nearest hard surface (like a driveway or a sidewalk).

Flat rectangular blades with scoop-cut edges carefully handle the perimeter of more delicate landscaping features like flower beds, which might otherwise be disturbed by the debris while rough cutting. These blades are also ideal to employ when the lawn and hard surfaces are uneven.

Star-shaped blades are useful for cutting yards with firm boundaries, like lawns that end at a wall or a sturdy fence.

If you have only a few needs to address, it is possible to purchase the desired replacement blade(s) for the edger and swap them in as necessary. While this may be easy to do, this transition does add some time to yard work.

Cutting Width and Depth

The cutting width of a lawn edger can refer to the cutting width of a combined trimmer and edger tool, but it may also simply indicate the physical width of the edger. This can impact the ability of the edger to access tight corners or any areas restricted by fences, decks, patios, foliage, or even the home.

However, a more important consideration is the depth of the edger, which refers to the maximum depth the edger blade can penetrate the ground. Typically, corded-electric, gas-powered, and battery-powered lawn edgers have a blade depth of about 2 to 6 inches. This allows the blade to plunge into the turf to cut and remove deep root systems. Manual lawn edgers often have a limit of about 2 to 4 inches to the cutting depth, though this is still deep enough to cut through most root growth.

Wheel Configuration

While a lightweight manual edging tool moves on nothing more than the user's guidance, the weight of an engine typically requires three or four wheels to cover a property without causing strain to the operator. The rear wheels are responsible for moving the entire unit along, while a guide wheel keeps the blade aligned with the task at hand.

Some gas-powered lawn edgers offer the addition of a fourth wheel (a "curb wheel") to help stabilize the edger when using it at a slight drop-off, such as the line where the lawn meets the street. If you're opting for an electric lawn edger or you don't need to maneuver around many curbs, three wheels are likely sufficient.

Ease of Use

Using a lawn edger can be tiring, especially for those who are toiling away with a manual edger, but several factors can help make the work easier. These include the size of the shaft, the weight of the edger, and the runtime of both battery-powered and gas-powered edgers.

The shaft of a lawn edger can vary in length and size depending on the specific tool. Some edgers have two handles to help maneuver heavy engines, while others have a single shaft to control the movement of lightweight edgers. Look for an edger that suits your height and strength to prevent overexertion while edging.

The weight of a lawn edger can wear on the user, especially when working in a very large yard or dealing with many precision cuts in tight spaces. The additional time spent edging can cause lasting aches and pains, but switching to a lighter lawn edger can reduce muscle strain and fatigue.

The runtime of both gas- and battery-powered lawn edgers can limit the amount of work that can be completed. Gas edgers need to be refilled with gas, and batteries need to be recharged. Keep these limitations in mind, especially when working on very large yards. Consider purchasing a spare battery so that one can always be on the charger.

Safety

Safety needs to be a priority at all times, especially for those who are operating a tool designed to cut through solid earth and tough root systems; otherwise, serious injuries can occur. Look for products with built-in features, such as debris guards, trigger locks, and padded grips, to help keep you safer while you work.

Debris guards are typically positioned at the back of the edger to prevent grass, dirt, and rocks from being kicked back into the feet and legs of the user. However, even with a guard, some debris can escape, so you should always wear safety glasses, long pants, and closed-toe shoes while working.

Trigger locks prevent the edger from being turned on accidentally. A trigger lock is a simple feature that locks the trigger unless the trigger lock switch is being held. With the switch held down, the edger can be used normally.

Padded grips on the shaft and handle of the edger help to reduce vibrations. Strong and continuous vibrations can cause muscle fatigue and strain, but this padding keeps your hands protected and makes it easier to grip and control the edger.

Additional Features

Many manufacturers offer product features beyond the basic design to help improve the functionality of the lawn edger and to make the tool more appealing to users. These additional features can include two-in-one trimming and edging tools, adjustable auxiliary handles, and accessories.

A two-in-one trimming and edging tool gives you the option to choose between trimming the grass or edging the lawn. These combined edging and trimming tools are useful for small-to-medium yards, but it may be better to invest in a separate edging tool for homes with larger yards.

Adjustable auxiliary handles provide an additional place for you to grip the edger for better balance and control. The auxiliary handle can also be slid up or down the shaft to a position that is better suited for the height of the user. The more suited the position of the handle is to the natural movement of the user's body, the easier it is to use the tool.

Accessories can include a wide range of products that can be packaged together with the edger, including exten