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So you want to make that tight edge on your lawn like the pros do?
Well… here is your how-to guide. 😊
Here you will find everything you need to edge your lawn as the pros do!
And you would probably never guess what the big secret is.
But, if you want to know, keep reading.
Let’s jump into the edging like a pro guide.
Start with The Right Tools!
It’s simple.
First off, you have to have the right tool for the job.
But what is the right tool?
Hint: It's not what you think.
Here’s the deal, the problem is many consumer edgers are difficult to use, and worse they make a huge mess. And worse still they get bogged down easily.
I bet you know that pain!
Use a Straight Shaft Weedeater
You will need to buy a straight shaft weed-eater that is powerful enough to do the job similar to one similar to what the pro’s use.
Kawasaki has an entry-level commercial grade model that can be purchased for around $275.
But, the best weedeater according to lawn care pros is offered by Echo.
Not only are straight shaft string trimmers longer-lasting machines, but they are also much more versatile, making them more useful than a curved shaft.
And they can help you weedeat like a pro!
Remove The Trimmers Gaurd (Controversially)
Look, I know there is a lot of controversy about removing the guard on your weedeater.
But it’s simple, you will need to remove the guard around the head to create a sharper edge.
While this is not by the safety book, it’s what the real pros do. This is what allows you to invert the weed-eater to cut in the edge at 90-degree angle as you see here.
This is how to edge the lawn like the pros, this is the big secret.
But there is one last step...
Practice Makes Edging Perfect
So now that you have a professional weed-eater, with the guard removed.
Now you will need to practice!
Steps to using a weedeater as an edger:
Using 4-6” of string on each end,
Position the weed-eater at 90-degree angle,
Experiment with the throttle giving it enough power to cut back the overgrown grass,
Practice, practice, practice!
Look, at first, you are going to be doing a sloppy job like the picture below, but with practice, you will cut a beautiful edge as you see in the picture above.
In my experience, it’s best to practice while walking backwards, this will discharge the debris always from you. Then, as you get better, and have a maintained edge, you will be able to do forward and backwards.
Pro Tip! Be sure to select a good trimmer line for your trimmer. Believe it or not, the shape of the line makes a huge difference.
The first few times you practice, your edge may look something like this:
In My Experience…
Here’s the deal, when I was training new recruits at my landscaping company, it would take about a week for a new team member to master edging with a string trimmer.
So it will take you some practice, but hey, it’s better than paying someone to do it, and it will be faster and more beautiful than any other method.
If you are still in shock that you can edge with a weedeater, I get it. I felt the same way when I first learned about it many years ago.
Be advised! This method may or may not work as well in areas such as Florida that have sandy soils.
Why Edging Your Lawn is Important
It’s simple, edging around your lawn's hard borders really makes your landscape look sharp!
Think of it as a frame for your lawn. A picture may look good on its own, but how much better does it look when it is framed well?
Know what I am saying?!
This is one of many landscaping tips that helps your lawn look its best!
If you don’t want to do all the hard work of edging your lawn on top of mowing, blowing, and weed whacking, you should hire a lawn care pro with GreenPal. Our lawn care pros offer professional services each and every visit.
FAQ: How To Edge Your Lawn Like a Pro?
What is the best way to edge a lawn?
The best way to edge a lawn is to use a sharp, flat-edged spade or a specialized lawn edger. For the best results, follow these 8 easy steps:
1. Use a manual or powered edger tool for clean, straight lines
2. Edge when soil is slightly moist, not wet or dry
3. Maintain a consistent depth of 2-3 inches
4. Edge perpendicular to the grass surface
5. Trim along sidewalks, driveways, and flower beds
6. Remove loose grass and soil after edging
7. Edge regularly (every 1-2 weeks) during growing season
8. Consider installing permanent edging for less maintenance
How do I manually edge my lawn?
To manually edge your lawn, you'll need an edging tool. Choose between a metal edging tool or a half-moon edger.
- Prepare: Mark the desired edge with a garden hose or string.
- Cut: Use the edging tool to cut along the marked line, digging into the soil.
- Clean: Remove any excess soil or debris from the edge.
For a cleaner look, consider adding a border of mulch or stones after edging.
How To Edge With a String Trimmer?
Edging with a string trimmer:
- Flip trimmer head 180° vertically, deflector shield facing you.
- Walk along the hard surface (driveway/walkway) to guide your edge.
- Keep arms straight, and maintain a steady, level trimmer.
- Move left to right if trimmer spins clockwise for a clean edge.
- Trim depth: About 2 inches for a sharp, defined line.
What is the best tool for edging a lawn?
The best tool for edging a lawn is a power edger, specifically a string trimmer for efficiency and precision. This tool allows for quick, clean cuts and is ideal for maintaining sharp lawn boundaries, especially for larger areas or regular maintenance. For smaller or more intricate gardens, a manual half-moon edger offers excellent control without the need for power.
Edging Like A Pro At The End of The Day
At the end of the day, the best tool for edging is actually a good weedeater. And by removing the guard from the trimmer, you can see where you are cutting along your driveway or sidewalk.
It’s true, a good edger can help you make the initial edge sharper. But once you have established a solid starting line, edgers really aren’t necessary.
The best news is that you can learn how to edge like a pro too. However, learning how to get that crisp edge takes a bit of practice.
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