You make an edging trench by digging two distinct slices with a flat-edged shovel: one straight down along the lawn edge, and the second at a 45-degree angle towards the garden bed or border.
Creating a simple garden trench, particularly for defining borders or edges between a lawn and a garden bed, is a straightforward process. This type of trench helps keep grass from creeping into your garden and provides a clean, defined line.
Creating an Edging Trench: A Simple Method
Making this specific type of trench is described as easy and requires minimal tools. The method focuses on creating a V-shaped or angled trench along the edge.
What You Need
- A flat-edged shovel
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps using a flat-edged shovel:
- First Slice: Position your flat-edged shovel along the outer edge of your lawn where it meets the garden border. Dig straight down 3 inches along this line. This creates a vertical cut on the lawn side of the future trench.
- Second Slice: Move slightly towards the garden border. Insert the shovel again and dig a second slice that's at a 45-degree angle in the direction of the border or bed. This cut will angle away from the initial vertical cut.
- Remove Soil: Use the shovel or your hands to remove the loose soil created by the two cuts. This soil can be added to your garden bed or compost pile.
- Refine: Clean up any remaining loose soil and tidy the edges for a crisp look.
By following these steps, you will end up with a trench that's straight downward on the lawn side and angled up to the border. This creates a neat, shallow ditch that serves as an effective barrier and visual separation.
This method is particularly useful for creating a "natural edge" that can be maintained relatively easily with an edger or by repeating the shovel technique as needed.
