If you want a defined edge on the lawns you maintain, you’ll need to invest in an edger. Some string-line trimmers are advertised as edger-trimmers, but they simply can’t deliver the same clean, professional edge as a dedicated edger.
Edgers cut into the lawn to create a crisp, even edge along sidewalks, driveways, paths, and garden beds. You can use string-line trimmers after each mowing to maintain an edge previously cut with a manual or powered edger, but the edge will eventually need re-cut and won’t look as professional.
Choose an Edger
There are two main styles of edger to choose from: wheeled and stick/pole models. Wheeled edgers offer increased stability and power, but also come at a higher price point. They’re a really good choice if you’re maintaining a large lawn with many sidewalks, such as a college campus, and want an edger that you don’t have to carry around.
Stick/pole edgers are available with either straight or curved shafts, depending on your preference. They have one wheel by the blade, which you use to guide and stabilize the edger. This type of edger is typically less expensive than wheeled edgers, and they’re more portable. You also have the option of getting an edger as part of a multi kit, which makes this tool more versatile.
When to Edge
You’ll typically need to edge every 2 to 4 weeks to keep the line between lawn and pavement neatly trimmed. The faster your lawn is growing, the more often you’ll need to edge it. Much like mowing, you’ll need to edge more often during peak growth season and if you choose to fertilize the lawn.
When you mow, check the edges of the lawn. Is it starting to look ragged with uneven clumps of grass growing over the edge of the pavement? If so, it’s time to get the edger out. You might end up edging as often as every second or third mow, depending on weather and other factors.
How to Edge
Position the edger so the guide wheel is on the pavement and the blade is between the edge of the concrete and the grass. If you’re edging a garden bed, the wheel can rest on the lawn. For hard-packed soil and thick turf, start with a shallow depth setting. Turn on the edger and move it back and forth to cut a trench between the pavement and the grass. Try not to run the edge of the cutting blade into the pavement.
Once you’re done, you can go back over the edge using a deeper setting if you don’t think it looks finished. Remember to turn the edger off before making any adjustments. Let the edger cool off, then brush it clean before storing. While the edger is cooling, clean-up the grass, sod and weeds using a broom or leaf blower.
