Why use edging stones? 

Edging stones are a fantastic way to enhance the functionality and appeal of a garden.

• Set boundaries

One of the main uses is to create clear lines and boundaries between different areas of your garden, such as lawns, flower beds, and paths. This helps to keep your outdoor space tidy.

• Control weeds and maintain the space

Weed control is another key role for edging stones. They form a barrier, preventing unwanted plants from spreading into areas where they don’t belong. This makes it easier to tackle any weeds that are in your garden as they're more likely to be confined to one section. Plus, having clearly defined areas makes mowing, trimming and other maintenance tasks simpler.

• Keep everything in place

Stone edgers can protect soil or gravel. They're a preventative measure against runoff and reduce the risk of soil erosion, especially during heavy rain.

•  Aesthetic appeal

You'll find that once you know how to install garden edging, you can easily enhance your home's appearance. Well-installed edging gives your garden an organised look. Available in various styles, shapes, and colours, edging stones can complement almost any garden design, from contemporary to rustic.

It can also offer kerb appeal for prospective buyers should you be thinking of selling your property. A well-maintained garden with neat boundaries is sure to be attractive and set the scene for the rest of your home.

Choose your stone edging

There are different types of garden edging designs available. You may want to use a mix of these when you installing along your lawn and flower beds, or it may be worth sticking to one type throughout.

Stone edging is durable and there are designs and colours available to suit gardens of all sizes and styles. For instance, metal-look edging can add an industrial feel to the space. Choosing stone pavers in metallic tones can help you achieve a sleek design. Or you might find that simple wooden sleepers or logs, when interspersed with rustic-style stone edging, add a certain charm to your garden.

H2: Installing garden edging: top tips

Before you get to work on installing your stone edgers, there are some important things to consider:

·        Garden style: Do you love a modern aesthetic or are you channelling a cottagecore vibe? Take the time to think about the style you have in mind before you commit to one type of stone. Browse the collection to find the best match for the look you're going for.  

·        Plan the layout: Deciding where you want to lay your edging beforehand will help you visualise how you want it to look and keep you on track once you start.

·        Functionality: As well as forming attractive boundaries, your stone edgers are stable enough to retain soil. Consider the dimensions you want to ensure your edging stones are the right height for your flower bed or lawn.

Read below to find out how to lay edging stones.

Please note: The information below is for straight garden edging only; curved or arced edging requires a different method.

.

Step 1: Laying a concrete base for edging

Step 1: Laying a concrete base for edging

Before you install any edging stones, you need to get your foundation clear. This means grabbing a shovel, clearing away weeds and setting a medium-strength concrete bed.

What you need:

• Wooden pegs
• Rubber mallet
• String
• Measuring tape
• Shovel
• Compactor/tamper
• Concrete (ready-mixed or handmade)

How to lay a concrete base for edging stones

1. Mark out the area where you are going to lay your edging stones (around 150-250mm wide), using wooden pegs and string.
2. Dig the area to accommodate a concrete base of 100-150mm.
3. Remove any roots, weeds, and stubborn stems.
4. Compact the bedding area before pouring in your concrete.

Low-Cost, Low Maintenance Garden Tips

With your concrete base prepared, it’s time to slot in your edging stones. However, before you line them up, you need to build a concrete haunch to stop them from wobbling.

What you need:

• Edging stones
• Rubber mallet
• Spirit level
• Measuring tape
• Compactor/tamper
• Trowel/spade

How to install garden edging stones

1.  Following the string line, slot the edging stones into the concrete bedding.

TOP TIP: Some stones are laid upright while others are designed to be laid flat. Review this element before setting your garden edging into concrete.

1. Tap down each edging stone gently with a rubber mallet. Ensure at least half of the stone is above the concrete level. Use a spirit level to check the stone is in line with the string.
2. On the outer side of your edging stone, set a concrete haunch at 100-150mm wide and approx. 125mm high. This will keep your edging stones in place and prevent them from coming loose.
3. Compact the concrete tightly and smooth the haunch with the back of a trowel or spade. The haunching should be 25-50mm below the top of the edging stone, which must accommodate at least half the edging’s depth.
4. Leave the concrete to dry – and that’s all there is to it!

Dos and don’ts of installing garden edging

Dos

• Prepare the ground thoroughly: A stable base is crucial for a long-lasting result.
• Choose durable materials: Our collection of edging stones is made from robust materials that can withstand weathering.
• Consider drainage: Ensure water can flow freely around the edging.

Russell Croft, Concrete Product Manager, Bradstone, says: 

"Proper drainage is an absolute must when laying edging stones in any garden. Without it, you risk water pooling around the base, which can lead to shifting, cracking, and instability over time. By ensuring a well-prepared base with adequate drainage, you not only protect the integrity of the stones but also create a more durable and professional finish."

Don’ts

• Don’t rush the process: Take time to level the stones properly to avoid a wobbly installation.
• Don’t overlook maintenance: Over time, you'll need to check for dislodged stones or erosion.