You mow. You water. You pull the weeds. But your lawn still looks…meh. That’s probably because the edges are fuzzy, overgrown, and bleeding into the sidewalk. Edging is the unsung hero of a sharp-looking yard. It’s the finishing touch that makes the whole space look clean and intentional. The good news? You don’t need to hire a landscaper. You need the right technique and a little patience. Here’s how to edge your lawn like you know exactly what you’re doing.
1. Know What You’re Edging
Before you start, walk around your yard. Are you cleaning up the edges along a driveway? A walkway? A flower bed? Each area might need a slightly different touch, but the basic idea is the same: define the boundary between the grass and everything else.
2. Choose Your Tool
You’ve got a few options:
- Manual edger (a half-moon blade you step on): good for smaller areas and precision cuts.
- String trimmer: fast and handy, but harder to control.
- Electric or gas edger: great for long paths and crisp, pro-looking lines.
Pick the one that fits your lawn size and how much effort you’re willing to put in.
3. Cut It Clean
If your edge is overgrown, start by trimming back the grass with a string trimmer. Then use your edger to cut a clean line where the grass meets concrete, brick, mulch, or soil. Go slow. Stay steady. You’re not racing—this is where the neat look comes from.
4. Follow the Line
Once you’ve made that first pass, go over it again to make sure it’s even. Use the edge of your sidewalk or driveway as a visual guide. If you’re working along flower beds or garden borders, consider laying down a garden hose to mark the curve. That makes it easier to keep your line consistent.
5. Clean Up the Mess
Edging kicks up a lot of dirt and grass. Use a broom or leaf blower to clean off the hard surfaces. Scoop up any clippings that landed in garden beds or gravel. This part matters—it’s the difference between “I tried” and “I nailed it.”
6. Keep It Up
One good edge makes a big difference, but it doesn’t last forever. Do a quick touch-up every couple of weeks. The more you stay on top of it, the easier it gets.
Edging isn’t just about looks—it’s about making your yard feel finished. It turns a patch of grass into a space you’re proud of. And once you’ve done it right, you’ll never go back to that shaggy-border look. Clean lines. Clear boundaries. That’s how you edge like a pro.