A manual lawn edger is a non-motorized garden tool designed to create a distinct, vertical boundary line between turf and surfaces such as sidewalks, driveways, or garden beds. Edging is a finishing touch in lawn care that enhances visual appeal by creating sharp, professional borders. These clean lines prevent the lateral spread of grass into paved areas and define the separation between different elements of your yard. Using a manual tool offers precise control over the depth and shape of the cut, contributing to a highly manicured appearance.
Selecting the Right Manual Edger
The two primary types of manual edgers are the half-moon edger and the rotary, or wheel, edger. The half-moon edger, sometimes called a spade-based or edging iron, features a semicircular blade attached to a long handle, often with a flat top for foot pressure. This design is ideally suited for creating a new, deep edge in overgrown or unedged areas because the blade can be driven vertically into the soil for the initial cut.
The rotary edger utilizes a bladed cutting wheel that rotates as it is pushed along the ground. These tools are generally better for maintenance, focusing on shallower, ongoing cuts to keep an existing edge sharp. The roller mechanism is efficient for long, straight edges on surfaces like driveways where the wheel tracks smoothly. Selecting the right tool depends on whether the task involves establishing a new edge or maintaining a current one.
The Step-by-Step Edging Technique
Before beginning the physical work, mow the lawn and lightly water the soil a few hours beforehand, as slightly damp soil is much easier to cut than hard, dry ground. For a perfectly straight line, lay down a taut string or a garden hose as a visual guide, especially when establishing the first edge. Wearing sturdy shoes and gloves is recommended to protect your hands and safely apply necessary downward force.
Using the Half-Moon Edger
When using a half-moon edger, place the blade vertically on the desired line and use your body weight to press the tool into the turf, often by stepping onto the top of the blade. This creates a clean, vertical slice through the grass and soil. Rock the edger gently side-to-side to widen the cut slightly before lifting and repositioning it to overlap the previous cut by a few inches.
Using the Rotary Edger
For a rotary edger, position the cutting wheel directly over the edge line, with the guide wheel resting on the hard surface, such as concrete. Push the tool forward, causing the blade to spin and slice the overhanging grass along the border. Maintain a steady pace and consistent pressure to ensure the cut remains uniform and the line does not become wobbly.
Handling Corners and Thick Turf
To manage corners, the half-moon edger makes a series of small, overlapping cuts that gradually change direction. The rotary edger requires a slower, more deliberate turn to keep the cutting wheel aligned. For either tool, making the cut in two passes—a shallow first cut followed by a deeper pass—is more effective than trying to achieve maximum depth immediately, particularly in thick turf. The goal is a smooth, continuous cut that cleanly severs the grass roots and runners to prevent future overgrowth.
Post-Use Tool Care and Cleanup
Once edging is complete, rake or sweep the removed sod and debris away from the newly defined border line. Removing this organic matter maintains the crisp visual separation and prevents the cut grass from re-rooting.
To ensure the manual edger’s longevity, the blade must be thoroughly cleaned after each use to remove all soil and grass residue. Residue traps moisture and accelerates the oxidation process, leading to rust. Use a stiff brush or rag to wipe the steel surface clean, paying attention to the cutting edge, and ensure the edger is completely dried before storage.
Applying a light coating of general-purpose oil, such as a silicone lubricant or WD-40, provides a protective barrier against moisture. This oil prevents corrosion and keeps the blade operating smoothly. Proper storage in a dry location protects the edger from the elements, ensuring its components remain sharp and functional.