Prep Steps— the ultimate guide to preparing the ground for your new edging

The Importance of Ground Preparation Before Installing Edging

Installing landscape edging can transform your landscape and add neat details in a modern, sleek, & eco-friendly way.

We are huge fans of neatly defined lines and professional finishes--

But before you jump into the installation, there is one crucial step you can’t afford to skip: PREPARATION!

A beautiful landscape is all about the prep work. 

Rushing or failing to follow the important prep work can lead to uneven edging, poor results, and frustration down the road.

Here’s why ground preparation is essential and how to do it right:

1. Ensure Stability and Longevity

Proper ground preparation creates a stable foundation for your edging. When the soil is compacted and level, your edging will stay in place more easily, resisting shifting and sinking over time. This stability not only preserves the appearance of your lines but also reduces the need for repairs or adjustments later on. 

Mostly though, it makes your life easier and allows your edging to install super quick. 

2. Achieve Professional Results

A smooth, even baseline allows your edging to lay flat and align properly. Without preparation, even the best edging can look uneven and unprofessional.

(See our favorite preparation tools at the bottom of this post) 

3. Minimize Weed Growth

Preparing the ground often involves removing weeds and grass, which helps prevent unwanted growth along the edges. By starting with a clean slate, you’ll save yourself stress later and nobody wants to deal with weeds that could disrupt their beautiful new landscape! 

4. Ease of Installation

Clearing debris, leveling the soil, and creating a clear trench make the installation process much smoother. Well-prepared ground means you won’t struggle with uneven surfaces or unexpected obstacles, saving time and effort.

Luckily, the 10" stakes of Link & Lock are heavy duty and can navigate under-earth obstacles more easily than any of the others. 

Steps to Prepare Your Ground for Edging

Paint a line: Using a landscape spray paint, flags, string, or even your garden hose, it will be helpful to have a clear idea of your line before you begin.

Clear the Area: Remove any grass, weeds, rocks, or debris where you’ll be installing the edging.

Dig a small Trench: There's no such thing as "no-dig" edging, and we find humor in the fact that those names are usually plastic edging. Penetrating the earth is a heavy task, and I've never seen thin plastic edging do it.

So anyways....

Use a high-quality shovel or pickaxe to dig a trench along the desired edge. The depth should match the desired height of your edging. 

Position Your Edging: Place the edging in the trench and secure it using your Link & Lock Edging stakes and an ordinary hammer. 

 

Tools We Love for Ground Preparation

Having the right tools can make all the difference. Here are some of our favorite shovels, rakes, and pickaxes to get the job done efficiently:

True Temper 2.5 lb. 36 in. Fiberglass Handle Toughstrike Pick Mattock at Tractor Supply Co

Shop Kobalt Fiberglass Garden Tools at Lowes.com

Corona 63 in. 25 Tine Steel Leaf Rake Aluminum Handle Mfr# RK 62061 - Ace Hardware

These tools are designed for durability and ease of use, making your ground preparation faster and more effective.

A Strong Foundation Leads to Stunning Results

By taking the time to prepare your ground properly, you will set the stage for your brand new edging. 

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional landscaper, prep is the first step! 

Ready to start your next project? Reserve your edging today, and please reach out with any questions, ideas, pictures, or feedback!