To use an edge cutter effectively for a clean, professional-looking lawn edge, you typically guide the blade along the desired line between your lawn and adjacent surfaces like driveways, walkways, or garden beds, ensuring it's not necessary or advisable to cut deeper than necessary into the soil as this wears down the blade and stresses the equipment.
Using an edge cutter, also known as an edger, helps define the boundary between your lawn and hardscapes or garden beds, creating a crisp, tidy appearance. While the exact method varies slightly depending on whether you're using a manual, electric, or gas-powered edger, the fundamental principle involves guiding a rotating blade or cutting tool along the edge.
Here's a breakdown of the general process:
Preparing to Edge
Before you begin, ensure the area is clear of obstacles like stones, toys, or thick debris that could damage the blade or be thrown by the edger. Wear appropriate safety gear, including safety glasses or goggles, sturdy shoes, and long pants. For gas or electric edgers, consider hearing protection.
Operating the Edge Cutter
The specific steps depend on the type of edger:
Manual Edgers
- Position the crescent-shaped blade squarely on the edge where the grass meets the hard surface.
- Step firmly on the top of the blade to press it into the soil along the edge.
- Lift and reposition the edger along the edge, overlapping the previous cut slightly.
- Repeat this process along the entire length of the edge.
- Use a shovel or broom to remove the loose soil and grass clippings created.
Power Edgers (Electric or Gas)
- Start the edger according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Position the edger blade directly over the edge you want to cut. Many edgers have a guide wheel or line marker to help you follow the edge.
- Slowly and steadily move the edger forward along the line.
- It's important not to cut deeper than necessary into the soil. According to The Home Depot's guide on edging, cutting too deep is not necessary or advisable. This practice will wear down the blade quicker and put unnecessary stress on the equipment. A shallow cut that just severs the grass runners and defines the edge is usually sufficient for maintenance edging.
- Overlap your passes slightly to ensure a continuous, clean line.
- Maintain a firm grip on the handles and walk at a controlled pace.
- Once the edging is complete, clean up the debris created by the edger using a broom, leaf blower, or rake.
Key Considerations
- Blade Depth: As highlighted, avoid excessive depth. Set the blade to cut only as deep as needed to slice through turf and soil along the edge, typically 1-2 inches for maintenance.
- Blade Sharpness: A sharp blade makes the job easier and provides a cleaner cut. Dull blades tear the grass and strain the equipment.
- Technique: Use smooth, steady movements. Pushing too hard or trying to rush can lead to uneven lines or damage to the edger.
- First Edge vs. Maintenance: If you're establishing a new edge, you might need a slightly deeper cut on the first pass. Subsequent maintenance passes will be much shallower.
By following these steps and keeping the blade depth appropriate, you can achieve professional-looking edges that enhance your lawn's appearance.
