Edging materials improve the look of your garden beds, while keeping mulch and soil in and grass and gravel out. But what kind of edging should you choose?

Landscape timbers. They're inexpensive, lasting and are easy to install. They may be stacked end to end or stacked and secured with long galvanized nails or rebar rods.

Railroad ties are inexpensive, last forever and make a bold statement, but they're very heavy and difficult to handle. It's best to stick with old ties: they're cheaper and look nicer, and the creosote from new ties may leach out and contaminate your plants and soil, not to mention your children. There are so many other alternatives we don't recommend railroad ties.

Terrace Board. We stock a simulated bender board product at the nursery called 'Terrace Board'. It looks like wood. Terrace Board comes in 40' rolls and is made out of a very durable, flexible but rigid plastic.

Metal edging is preferred by professional landscapers. It's pliable, may be painted and lasts forever, but it's expensive. if the soil is soft it's easy to tap in with a hammer. If the soil is hard, dig a shallow trench first, then lay the edging in the trench and fill with soil.

Borders of stone, concrete or brick can be the most expensive but also the longest-lasting and best looking choice. Unless the stones are fitted together with mortar, however, weeds and turf grasses can grow between the cracks. Nothing a little Killzall Weed and Grass killer won't fix.

Brick pavers are reasonably inexpensive. Bricks tend to be more attractive and versatile since you can use them on their side, set them end to end or lay them on a diagonal pattern.

Border blocks are also available. Interlocking pavers are perfect for do-it-yourselfers. They're expensive but may be used in a variety of ways, including side by side to create borders or stacked to build raised beds.

Another excellent form of landscape border, growing rapidly in popularity, is concrete. Concrete will last a lifetime. There are many colors and patterns to choose from such as brick and cobblestone. Concrete border can be installed in straight lines or curves forming a solid barrier between beds and lawn that weeds and even bernuda grass cannot penetrate! It holds mulches and gravel in place too. If you live in the Atlanta Metro area and are interested in receiving a quote contact UltimateEdge for a free consultation and estimate. 678-794-1336 or visit the website: ultimateedgeofga.com to see more.

TIPS:

- If the purpose of your border is to prevent grasses or invasive plants from entering your flower beds, the edging must extend at least 2" below the soil surface.

- For a natural look design bedlines with gentle curves.

- Rent a trencher to carve out your beds and lay brick pavers flat against the trench slope on the inside of the bed to create an attractive 'bowl effect'.