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Using an Edger to Maintain the Neighborhood’s Neatest Lawn

September 3, 2021 *

The greenest and most lush lawns in the neighborhood won’t look well-groomed without proper edging. That means people who care for their lawns don’t just need a mower. They also need to purchase an edger. These handy tools will ensure tidy edges between the lawn and walkways, plant beds, and driveways.

How to Use an Edger to Maintain a Tidy Lawn

According to This Old House, following this simple plan to prepare for edging should make this lawn maintenance task simple and safe.

Start by mowing: It might help to get the biggest job out of the way first. Mostly, mowing the lawn will make it easy to judge how short to crop the grass at the edges of the lawn.
Mark the edging path: Most people can skip this step for edging along fairly straight lines, like a sidewalk. Otherwise, it can help to mark out the edger’s path with tape or even a garden hose.
Consider wearing safety gear: At the very least, consider wearing gloves and safety glasses for protection against thrown pebbles, dust, and pollen. Just as with mowing, people with allergies may want to don a mask. OSHA also offers several safety tips for mowing and edging.

Using String Trimmers

If the string trimmer allows it, flip its head into a vertical position. The shield should protect the body of the person using it. Move in the same direction that the string spins. They usually spin clockwise, so this means moving from left to right.

Using Manual Trimmers

Electric and gas-powered trimmers make big jobs easier. Some people have an easier time edging irregular borders with a manual trimmer. Examples might include the area around a flower bed or a curved driveway. Using a manual trimmer feels similar to using a shovel.

Edger Maintenance

Afterward, clean the edger or trimmer with a rag or brush. Caked on dirt, grass clippings, and small pebbles can reduce the tool’s effectiveness and even create a hazard.

Edging a Lawn Without an Edger

An edger or string trimmer will make the task easier and faster. For quick touch-ups or small areas, it’s possible to use a plant cutter or trimmer to tidy up the lawn’s boundaries. In order to avoid needing to edge in the future, make a boundary with pavers, small pebbles, or plastic edging. Finally, some homeowners simply lower their mower’s blade a bit for a trip around the edges.

How Often Do Lawns Need Edging?

Some people simply edge every time they mow. If the grass needs cutting, the borders could probably use trimming too. Also, keeping up with this task makes it easier. A quick visual inspection of the lawn should determine the right time to edge.

In the market for a new edger, mower, or other lawn-care tools? Check out this previous article about the best time to buy mowers. The advice applies to other outdoor equipment as well.

Protecting Edgers, Trimmers, and Other Lawn Equipment

People who take pride in their lawns generally also take care of their lawn equipment. After all, clean and well-maintained mowers and edgers will perform better and will be safer to operate. Luckily, Upsie offers protection plans for edgers, trimmers, and other outdoor equipment.

With Upsie, customers don’t have to worry about finding qualified repair services or unexpected repair bills. Instead, Upsie takes care of everything for you and their affordable warranties cost up to 70 percent less than competitors.

In addition, customers can enjoy 24-7 customer claims services, a choice of repair options, and comprehensive protection against the most common problems. Even better, customers can purchase plans up to 60 days after buying the product.