choosing the right planting bed edging for your landscape

one of the questions i get asked sometimes during landscape design consultations is what type of planting bed edging homeowners should use. it might seem like a small detail, but in reality, proper edging is an important factor in keeping your yard looking clean and intentional. whether i'm working on landscape design in naperville, aurora, plainfield, batavia, geneva, wheaton, downers grove, lisle, or the western suburbs of chicago, the conversation usually comes up.

for many landscape construction projects, i often recommend a simple spade edge. this is the clean, hand-cut edge between the lawn and planting bed. it creates a very tidy line, clearly separates turf from mulch, and is one of the most budget-friendly options available. homeowners love that it keeps a natural feel while still looking polished. with a little seasonal touch-up, a spade edge is easy to maintain and works beautifully in both formal and relaxed landscape designs.

that said, some clients prefer a more permanent solution. in those cases, brick edging using clay pavers or natural stone edging can be a great fit. these materials provide a strong visual frame around planting beds and reduce the need for ongoing reshaping. they’re especially popular in landscape design and construction projects where homeowners want a more finished, structured look.

when we install natural stone edging, creamy white eden drywall stone is by far the most requested material. it blends beautifully with midwestern homes, holds up well to our freeze-thaw cycles, and gives planting beds a soft but defined border. ultimately, the right choice depends on your style, budget, and how much ongoing maintenance you want to handle — and that’s something i always help my clients in the western suburbs of chicago thoughtfully work through.