Edging is crucial in any landscape design, as it’s the barrier between various areas and materials in an outdoor space. It’s often used to contain or separate distinctly different spaces, giving the landscape clean lines and a polished finish.
Just like the other elements of a home, styles change and materials improve over time. As modern homes become more popular and common, modern landscape edging will need to keep pace. If you’re ready to update your landscape, or maybe you’ve recently installed a new driveway or gazebo in need of some finishing touches, we have a few general tips and recommended materials to get you started!
General Tips to Maintain Great Curb Appeal
Don’t neglect the foundation you’re building on.
One of the functional goals of edging is to help prevent erosion of yards and gardens. Unfortunately, it can’t always do the job on its own. Sometimes the underlying ground needs attention to make sure that the edging can do its job properly. The good news is that this can be an easy DIY fix with BaseCore GeoCells.
If your property is prone to erosion, then the edging might need to be supplemented to resist flowing water and sliding forces. One way to help is to incorporate BaseCore GeoCells into your design, stabilizing your landscape while still allowing water to flow through.
It’s important to assess your ground’s stability before installing edging. If you’re concerned about washouts or an uneven surface, give us a call today at (888)-897-2224 and we can help answer your questions.
Choose edging that’s visually consistent with your home.
This ensures that your lawn or garden doesn’t draw negative attention by clashing with the design of your house. A cohesive landscape and property is much more visually appealing to curious onlookers and even potential buyers.
Remember that edging also needs to be functional.
Because edging is used to contain or separate design elements, you need to consider what it will be up against. For example, if the edging separates a flower bed from your yard, then the edging will need to stand up to weed eaters and mowers. Choose your materials accordingly!
Recommended Materials for Edging Your Garden
Stone Edging
There are two main ways to incorporate stone edging into your landscaping, either by stacking them upright to create a small wall or by digging a shallow trench filled with stones to make something similar to a moat. They serve different purposes, but both can look modern and clean.
Stacked or surface-level stones are a great way to contain garden beds. They provide an easy way to prevent soil and mulch from spreading outside the confines of the bed. Some of the most common types include pavers, flat stones, or gabion cages.
Moat-style stones are an excellent modern landscape edging option, as they are easy to mow around and can provide a place to stand while doing edge work. River rock is a great option for this style, allowing for some permeability to prevent strong water streams over the surface.
Brick Edging
Brick edging is a great way to incorporate some eye-catching colors and patterns into your landscape design. By alternating between neutral and vibrant colors, you can get a distinctive look without being distracting. Many modern homes take this same approach with interior design, allowing pops of color to stand out against a more neutral background.
Also, because bricks can be cut and rounded, they are a great material for curved designs. Soften up an angular looking home with circular brick edging or a wave-like pattern.
Wood Edging
Wood edging is perfect for a homeowner interested in including a more natural feel. Many modern design trends lean toward clean and flat materials like concrete, metal, and glass, which look great but can become monotonous if you’re not careful. Including some wooden touches, such as edging, adds a depth of color and texture to a modern design.
Wood affords you plenty of opportunity to get creative as well! Long pieces of wood can be laid horizontally, appearing more like a wall. While shorter pieces can be arranged vertically in a fence-like pattern. Layering and varying the heights of different pieces can add even more texture to your edging. Repurposed wood is also a great way to add character and recycle at the same time.
Steel Edging
Steel edging is a perfect solution for a homeowner looking for something durable and inconspicuous. The strong steel material allows the edging to withstand the harshest climates, accidental contact with lawn equipment, and the test of time.
Most commonly installed as a short, upright wall, steel edging firmly holds landscaping in its place while maintaining a slim profile. Untreated steel will also develop a dark red and brown patina over time. This weathering will provide a natural and understated feel to your edging.
Traditional metal edging is often cast iron with ornamental designs. However, contemporary steel edging is most often unadorned and sleek, allowing it to pair beautifully with modern design trends.
Great Options for Standing Out With Your Edging Design
If you’re interested in a little design flair to your landscape edging, you have a variety of options to choose from. These unique touches can add a bit of character to your modern landscape edging, allowing you to express your personal style.
Incorporate seating into your edging. A retaining wall and higher edging are perfect opportunities to include a bench alongside your landscaping. Now you can relax and enjoy your beautiful yard from seating seamlessly blended into the area.
Mix materials to add some visual interest. Many edging materials complement each other well, such as wood with stone or metal with concrete. By mixing things up a bit you can make your landscaping all the more exciting!
Source local materials for your edging. Many modern homes are increasingly landscaped with native plant species to maintain local biodiversity. Choose locally sourced rock or wood to pair with your plants to make your home feel truly a part of its natural environment.
Ready to Start Your Modern Landscape Edging Project?
Don’t forget the importance of your landscape’s foundation before installing edging. Establishing a strong base will ensure that your edging does its job for years to come.
Backyard Bases is a proud supplier of industry-leading BaseCore GeoCell products designed to meet your landscape edging needs. Still trying to figure out where to start? Our team is here to walk you through every step of the installation process so that you can get the results you deserve fast.
Give us a call at (888)-897-2224 to start your edging project today.