Introduction

Hello, fellow homeowners! Are you looking to give your garden a clean, defined look? Stone landscape edging is a fantastic way to add structure and style to your outdoor space. Not only is it durable and low-maintenance, but it also enhances the overall aesthetic of your garden. As a professional landscape expert, I’m here to guide you through the process of installing perfect stone landscape edging. Let’s get to it!

Understanding Stone Landscape Edging

What is Landscape Edging?

Landscape edging involves creating a distinct boundary between different areas of your garden, such as flower beds, pathways, and lawns. Stone landscape edging, in particular, uses natural or manufactured stones to create these boundaries, adding a touch of elegance and durability.

Types of Stone Used in Landscape Edging

There are various types of stones you can use for landscape edging:

Natural Stone: Granite, limestone, sandstone, and fieldstone are popular choices. Natural stones offer a timeless look and blend seamlessly with the natural environment.
Manufactured Stone: Concrete pavers and bricks are common manufactured options. These stones are uniform in shape and size, making them easier to install and more affordable.

Benefits of Stone Edging

Durability: Stone is incredibly durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Aesthetic Appeal: Stone edging adds a classic, polished look to your garden.
Low Maintenance: Once installed, stone edging requires minimal upkeep.

Planning Your Stone Landscape Edging

Assessing Your Garden’s Needs

Before you start, take a walk around your garden to identify the areas that need edging. Are you defining flower beds, creating a border for a pathway, or separating the lawn from a garden bed? Measure and mark the areas where you’ll be installing the edging.

Choosing the Right Stone for Your Garden

Consider your garden’s style and your personal preferences when choosing stones. Natural stones like granite and sandstone offer a rustic, organic look, while manufactured stones provide a more uniform and modern appearance. Match the stone with existing elements in your garden, like patios or walkways, for a cohesive design.

Gathering Materials and Tools

Necessary Materials

Stone (natural or manufactured)
Concrete (optional)
Edging stakes and string (optional)

Necessary Tools

Shovel
Stone Hammer (optional)
Bed Redefiner (optional)
Wheelbarrow
Level
Rubber mallet
Tape measure
Garden hose or string for layout (optional)

Preparing the Site

Clearing the Area

Start by clearing the area where you’ll be installing the stone edging. Remove any existing grass, plants, and debris. This will give you a clean slate to work with. We recently completed a project for a happy client. We cleared the area of moss and weeds; it was hard work, but it was much needed for the transformation.

Creating a Trench

Next, dig a trench along your marked lines. The trench should be about 4 inches deep and wide enough to accommodate your stones. The depth ensures the stones are stable and level with the surrounding ground. (add the photo)

Adding a Base Layer

This all depends on the stone edging you are using. We dry lay our natural stone edging because it makes it look more natural. On this project for our client, we used a bed redefiner to mark our edge line and dug as needed using a stone hammer.

If you are adding stone edging near your home, we recommend using cobblestone edging. We use a 2-3 inch layer of concrete as a base layer when laying cobblestone edging for our clients.

Installing the Stone Landscape Edging

Laying Out the Stone

Lay out your stones along the trench, following the marked lines. Ensure the stones are evenly spaced and aligned. You can use a garden hose or string as a guide to keep the layout straight. If you’re going for a natural stone edging it doesn’t need to be perfect.

Setting the Stones in Place

Place each stone into the trench, pressing it firmly into the concrete or ground. Each time you need to place the stone dig the appropriate amount to place the stone edging and hit it slightly with a rubber mallet.

Securing the Stones

Use a rubber mallet to tap the stones into place gently. This ensures they are securely set without damaging the stone. Backfill the trench with soil, packing it tightly around the stones to hold them in place.

Adding Decorative Touches

Consider adding decorative touches along the edging, such as small plants, mulch, or decorative rocks. These elements can enhance the overall appearance and blend the edging seamlessly into your garden. (add a photo and talk about what we used)

Maintenance Tips for Stone Landscape Edging

Regular Inspection and Adjustments

Inspect your stone edging regularly to check for any shifting stones or gaps. Re-level and adjust stones as necessary to maintain the integrity of the border.

Cleaning and Preserving the Stone

Keep your stone edging clean by removing dirt and debris. You can use a hose to wash the stones and a brush to scrub off any stubborn grime. Applying a sealant can protect the stone and keep it looking new (optional).

Seasonal Maintenance

Prepare your stone edging for winter by ensuring it is secure and stable. In spring, refresh the edging by cleaning and making any necessary adjustments. This will keep your garden looking its best year-round.

Real-Life Examples and Inspiration

Success Stories from Suburban Homeowners

Hearing from other homeowners who have successfully installed stone landscape edging can be inspiring. One neighbor transformed her garden with beautiful granite edging that perfectly framed her flower beds. (add the watkos comment)

Before and After Photos

Before and after photos can showcase the dramatic impact of stone edging. (add before and afters from Watkos home)

Expert Tips and Personal Anecdotes

Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different styles and materials.

Conclusion

Stone landscape edging is a simple yet impactful way to define and enhance your garden. By carefully planning, preparing the site, and following best practices for installation, you can achieve a professional, polished look that will last for years. So grab your shovel and stones, and start transforming your garden today!

Happy gardening, and enjoy your beautifully defined garden with perfect stone landscape edging!