Edging keeps depth honest
Without an edge, mulch migrates into lawn and you overspread forever. Choose an edge before you order yards so the bed area is final — then run the mulch calculator.
Option comparison
Prep steps overlap edging and prepping beds. Keep foundation clearance per mulch and foundation guide.
- Spade-cut trench (natural edge): cheap, clean look, needs recutting
- Steel / aluminum landscape edging: thin profile, durable, higher material cost
- Plastic edging: budget, can heave in frost if not staked well
- Brick / paver restraint: heavy, formal, good near patios
- Stone or boulder edge: informal, uses more bed space
Install tips that save mulch
After edging: weed, optional fabric, then spread mulch evenly. Full project map: mulch bed from scratch.
- Set edge height so finished mulch sits slightly below the lawn for mowing clearance
- Stake steel/plastic firmly — floppy edges spill bark
- Recut trench edges each spring if you skip hard edging
- Measure inside the edge for square footage