Clean, crisp lawn edges are like the finishing touch on a masterpiece—they really give your yard that professional, “wow” factor. To help you get that perfect look without the headache, I’ve put together three tried-and-true tips for edging like a pro. Here is how to get those lawn edges looking sharp.
Mow as close to the edge as possible
Most modern mowers are designed with offset blades, which is a total game-changer. This means the cutting deck reaches right out to the wheels, allowing you to get incredibly close to obstacles. By mowing right up against walls or fences, you can cut down on tedious trimming time or even skip it altogether in some spots.
Use the right tools for the job
Gone are the days of crawling around on your hands and knees with a pair of rusty scissors! There are so many innovative tools out there now that save your back and your energy. If you want to tidy up your perimeter without the physical toll, check these out:
- Manual Edger: Look for a half-moon stainless steel blade with a sturdy T-handle.
- Cordless Grass Shears: These often come with a telescopic handle so you can snip while standing up.
- String Trimmer: Go for one with an adjustable head (electric or battery-powered) for maximum versatility.
If you’re dealing with a massive property, a heavy-duty brush cutter with a dual-line head is your best friend. These high-powered machines are a bit of an investment, but they’re worth every penny if you frequently have to tackle tall, overgrown grass or large boundary lines.
Cut and clean at the same time
If your grass constantly creeps over onto your driveway or patio, you know the struggle: first you cut, then you have to sweep. A “Cut&Brush” 2-in-1 tool can be a lifesaver here. It uses a thin, sharp stainless steel disc to slice the grass edge while an integrated nylon brush simultaneously scrubs dirt and moss off the stone. Talk about a time-saver!
Precision is key
Nothing ruins a clean look like a few stray blades of grass sticking out here and there. Going back to fix them later is a hassle, so it’s better to get it right the first time. Here’s my step-by-step for a perfect finish:
First, mow the entire lawn. This shows you exactly where the mower couldn’t reach. For small patches, believe it or not, an old serrated bread knife works wonders for a quick trim. If you’re using a manual edger, simply line it up, step on the blade to slice into the turf, and toss the excess sod into a wheelbarrow.
If you’re using a string trimmer, you can turn it into a vertical edger by tilting the head. For the cleanest result, keep the guard facing up so the rotating line slices straight down through the overhanging grass. Just a quick safety reminder: always wear eye protection! Trimmers love to kick up pebbles and dust.
Pro Tip: If you love that classic “English Garden” look, you’re probably aiming for a seamless transition between your lawn and your flower beds. To keep the grass from invading your flowers, grab a spade every four to six weeks and slice a clean, vertical edge. Scoop up the trimmings and toss them in your compost pile to keep everything looking tidy.