Creating clean, defined edges for your lawn doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Here are 37 cheap and easy lawn edging ideas, with practical tips for achieving each.
Natural Edging Ideas
1. Trench Edging
Use a sharp spade or edging tool to dig a shallow trench between your lawn and garden bed. This simple, no-cost technique creates a clean separation, preventing grass from creeping into flower beds while maintaining a natural look.
2. Moss Rocks
Gather moss-covered rocks from your yard or buy them from a landscaping supplier. Arrange the rocks along your lawn edge in an overlapping or continuous line. Their rustic texture blends seamlessly into natural gardens.
3. Wood Chips
Spread mulch or wood chips along the border of your lawn. This biodegradable option not only looks tidy but also enriches the soil as it decomposes. Regularly refresh the layer for a neat appearance.
Upcycled Materials
4. Brick Pathway
Repurpose old bricks to create a durable and classic edge. Lay them flat or on their sides in a straight or staggered pattern, and set them in sand for stability. This method works well for defining paths or garden beds.
5. Cinder Blocks
Lay leftover cinder blocks side by side to create a modern, industrial-style border. Fill the hollow centers with soil and plant flowers or succulents for added visual interest.
6. Recycled Bottles
Use old glass or plastic bottles by turning them upside down and burying them halfway into the ground. Alternate colors or sizes for a playful and unique design that adds a whimsical touch.
7. Wooden Pallet Planks
Break down an old wooden pallet into individual planks. Arrange them vertically or horizontally to form a rustic, budget-friendly garden edge. Sand the wood for safety or leave it weathered for added charm.
8. Tin Cans
Bury tin cans halfway into the soil, creating an industrial-style edge. For added creativity, paint them in vibrant colors or patterns before installation.
9. Old Plates
Sink mismatched or chipped plates into the ground so that only the top edges are visible. The result is a colorful and artistic border, perfect for eclectic garden designs.
10. Log Slices
Cut logs or thick branches into even slices, then bury them upright along your lawn edge. This natural, rounded border works beautifully in woodland or cottage gardens.
DIY Concrete
11. Concrete Pavers
Mix and pour concrete into molds to create custom pavers. Use basic shapes or experiment with decorative molds. Line the pavers along your lawn for a durable, low-maintenance border.
12. Broken Concrete
Reclaim broken concrete slabs from construction projects or neighbors. Arrange them like stepping stones or stack them for a rugged, eco-friendly edging option.
13. Stepping Stones
Purchase inexpensive stepping stones or make your own from concrete. Arrange them in a continuous line or spaced intervals to frame your lawn and paths effectively.
Wood-Based Ideas
14. Tree Branches
Collect fallen branches and lay them end-to-end along your lawn edge. Secure them with stakes if necessary to prevent shifting. This method is ideal for a natural, organic look.
15. Wooden Stakes
Drive wooden stakes into the ground vertically, side by side. Leave them raw for a rustic appearance or paint them to match your garden’s aesthetic.
16. Bamboo Poles
Cut bamboo poles into equal lengths and bury them slightly in the ground to form a clean, polished edge. Bamboo’s natural durability makes it a great long-term option.
17. Railway Sleepers
Lay old railway sleepers flat or stand them vertically for a bold and dramatic lawn edge. Their sturdy design works well in larger gardens with a rustic or industrial theme.
Metal Edging
18. Corrugated Metal
Cut corrugated metal sheets to size and bury them slightly in the soil. The textured surface adds an industrial edge, while its durability ensures it lasts for years.
19. Old Bed Frames
Sink parts of an old metal bed frame into the ground to create a unique, repurposed border. This approach works well for vintage or upcycled garden designs.
Stone-Based Ideas
20. Pebble Edging
Pour a line of small pebbles or river stones along your lawn edge. Use landscaping fabric underneath to prevent weeds and ensure the stones stay in place.
21. Limestone Blocks
Stack lightweight limestone blocks to create a sturdy and timeless border. Their neutral tones complement most garden styles.
22. Gravel Strip
Lay down landscaping fabric, then cover it with gravel. This simple, weed-resistant edge is perfect for modern and minimalist designs.
Plastic and Rubber
23. Plastic Lawn Edging Rolls
Purchase affordable plastic edging from a garden center. Roll it out, cut to size, and stake it into place for a clean, flexible border.
24. Recycled Tires
Cut old tires into strips and arrange them along your lawn edge. You can leave them black for a bold look or paint them for a playful finish.
25. Rubber Mulch Strips
Install rubber mulch strips, which mimic the look of wood chips but are more durable and weather-resistant.
Creative Designs
26. Terracotta Pots
Line up small terracotta pots along the edge of your lawn. Leave them empty, or fill them with flowers or succulents for extra charm.
27. PVC Pipes
Cut PVC pipes into short sections and bury them upright for a contemporary edge. Vary the heights for an interesting visual effect.
28. Shell Border
Collect seashells from the beach or buy them online. Arrange them along your lawn for a coastal-inspired border.
29. Painted Concrete Blocks
Paint old concrete blocks in vibrant colors or patterns, then stack them to form a functional and decorative edge.
30. Mirrored Glass Pieces
Use old mirrors as reflective edging. Ensure safety by rounding off sharp edges before installation.
Plant-Based Edging
31. Low-Growing Herbs
Plant creeping herbs like thyme or chamomile along your lawn edge. These soft, fragrant plants add beauty and aroma.
32. Flower Border
Choose compact flowers such as marigolds, alyssum, or pansies to create a colorful edge that brightens your garden.
33. Grass Edging
Grow ornamental grasses like blue fescue in a neat strip for a soft, textural border.
Miscellaneous
34. Wicker Basket Strips
Cut strips from old wicker baskets and weave them into a rustic, lightweight border.
35. Clay Roof Tiles
Sink old clay roof tiles vertically into the ground at an angle. Their durability and earthy tones create a unique and weather-resistant edge.
36. Reclaimed Shingles
Repurpose roofing shingles by burying them halfway into the ground. This waterproof option is both practical and affordable.
37. Rope Edging
Coil thick ropes along the edge of your lawn for a nautical-inspired look. Secure the rope with stakes to keep it in place.
With these 37 creative and affordable ideas, you can transform your lawn edges into polished, eye-catching borders. Whether you prefer upcycled materials, natural designs, or something more decorative, there’s an option to suit every garden style and budget.