Top lawn edgers for a perfectly manicured yard

A well-maintained lawn makes every neighborhood a little more beautiful. But clean, clear-cut edges set some yards apart. A well-edged lawn creates a polished and tidy appearance, enhancing the home’s overall curb appeal. Experts warn that a well-maintained yard can increase a property’s value by as much as 15%, meaning lawn care is an investment in the future. 

Lawn edgers make this clean appearance possible by providing distinct borders between grass and sidewalks, driveways, garden beds or pathways. Lawnmowers mow the grass, not the borders. As grass spreads into unwelcome spaces, even a healthy lawn can appear untidy without edging.

Growcycle offers a variety of lawn edgers to connect buyers with sellers. Users can search and compare several models and read thorough descriptions and ratings of the sellers. The Lewis Tools Step Edger, for instance, has a unique blade design and a long handle for effective edging. 

What is a Lawn Edger?

A lawn edger is a gardening tool designed to make a clean distinction between grass and surfaces such as sidewalks, driveways, patios, and garden beds. And it helps keep lawns looking tidy, mowing overgrown grass and edging clean lines.

There are two types of lawn edgers:

1. Manual edgers take some effort, and work best on small yards or for light trimming.
2. Gas and electric powered edgers are more suited to larger lawns or thicker grass.

Common Materials and Construction

Lawn edgers are made from durable materials to hold up against the elements. The main components include:

• Blades: Typically constructed from tempered steel for durability and sharpness. Others have serrated blades or rotating blades for improved performance.
• Handles: These components can be found in manual edgers and are constructed from wood, fiberglass, or metal to provide comfort and control. Most powered edgers feature adjustable shafts that allow for easy maneuverability.
• Wheels: These are made from rubber or plastic, and provide a smooth movement and help to guide the machine around edges.
• Motor or Engine (for powered edgers): Electric models are powered by corded or battery-powered motors; gas models are powered by two-stroke or four-stroke engines which have more power.

Benefits of Using a Lawn Edger

A lawn edger should be an integral part of any yard in order to keep it looking tidy and well-groomed. It helps define clean boundaries between grass and areas like sidewalks, driveways and flower beds. Weekly usage of a lawn edger has its perks as follows:

1. Improves Lawn Appearance

A well-manicured lawn looks clean and classy. Sharp, well-defined edges help the yard pop, giving it a more polished, orderly look. Without edging, grass can grow over sidewalks and pathways, which can make the lawn look unkempt.

2. Prevents Grass Overgrowth

Without edging, grass can spread into unwanted areas such as flower beds, driveways and patios. It creates a clear separation of grass, paving or flower bed, which not only makes the lawn neater, but also controls overgrowth and spreading.

3. Reduces Weed Growth

Weeds typically move from the borders of a lawn into garden beds and paved areas. Using a lawn edger often reduces the amount of weed growing on flower beds and walkways.

4. Makes Mowing Easier

A lawn edger is a tool used to define the edges of a lawn so that you can mow parallel to these areas of grass without accidentally edging into flower beds or walking paths. This is time-saving and energy-efficient as it reduces the need for further trimming.

5. Promotes Healthier Grass

Nicely cut lawn edges allow air and light to reach the grass, which prevents it from becoming sickly. Keeping grass from growing where it doesn’t belong also cuts competition for nutrients and water, which helps the lawn to thrive.

6. Saves Time and Effort

Using a lawn edger regularly means no need to trim by hand as much. A powered edger, specifically, can accomplish a lot and if have a large area to edge, it can save hours and avoid physical effort.

7. Creates Safer Walkways and Driveways

This overgrown grass alongside sidewalks and driveways can be a trip hazard and make paved areas look untidy. A lawn edger ensures that these spaces are clear, making for a clean and safe walking surface.

Manual Lawn Edgers

Manual lawn edgers are basic but useful tools for creating sharp, clean edges along sidewalks, driveways and garden beds. This gives them precision and control, making them ideal for homeowners seeking a hands-on approach to lawn maintenance.

How Manual Edgers Work

Manual edgers use force to slice through grass and dirt. They can be pushed, stepped on or rolled along lawn edges to create a crisp separation between the grass and other surfaces. Common techniques include:

• Stepping and cutting: Users place half-moon edgers’ blade in the ground by applying foot pressure and rock it from side to side to trim overgrown grass.
• Rolling and trimming: Rotary edgers come equipped with a spiked wheel that trims the grass when rolled along the edge of a walkway or driveway.
• Slicing and shaping: Spade edgers operate much like small shovels, enabling the user to manually carve out defined edges. 

Key Features

There are some features that can have a significant impact on how well different manual edgers perform as well as how convenient they are to use:

• Blade Quality and Durability: Most blades are made of hardened steel, which will stay sharp and reef wear over time. Other models have serrated edges to cut more efficiently.
• Handle Design for Comfort: Choose one with a grip that is agreeable to the hands and that doesn’t require an awkward position of the wrists, such as an ergonomic grip or T-shaped handle. A longer handle allows to perform the task with more leverage.
• Weight and Balance for Precision: An edger that is well balanced will cut smoothly and accurately without excessive force. A tool that’s too heavy may tire out, but one that’s too light may be ineffective.

Pros and Cons of Manual Edgers

Like any tool, manual edgers have advantages and limitations.

Pros

• Precision Control
• Affordability
• Lower Maintenance
• Quiet and Eco-Friendly

Cons

• Labor-Intensive
• Less Effective on Thick Turf
• Slower Than Powered Edgers

Best Practices for Manual Edging

1. Use a rope, garden hose or chalk line to mark the area that needs edging.
2. Choose a half-moon, rotary, or spade edger depending on the type of grass and soil.
3. Dig the blade down with a firm-foot pressure, or slide smooth along the edge of the tool.
4. Instead of shearing off a long length at one time, work on small sections for more precise results.
5. When finished cutting, lift out the cut grass and either discard or use as mulch.

Powered Lawn Edgers

Powered lawn edger gives a speedy method to cut clean, well defined edges along sidewalks, driveways and garden beds. They are recommended for homeowners who have larger yards or want to minimize the physical effort involved with edging. There are two main types of edgers:

1. Gas-Powered Edgers

These operate gas engines to turn a spinning blade. The strongest of the three, they’re best on thick grass, hard-packed soil, or for professional landscapers. But they need regular refueling and maintenance, and they generate noise and emissions.

2. Electric Edgers

These are available in corded and battery-operated (cordless) models.

• Corded Edgers Plug into an outlet and deliver unlimited power. They're light and low-maintenance, but the power cord limits their portability.
• Battery-Powered Edgers: Powered by rechargeable batteries, offering the freedom of cordless operation. However, they have limited run time before they need to be charged.

Key Components and Operational Design

Powered edgers usually come with:

• Rotating blade: A rotating blade that cuts grassy features and dirt.
• Adjustable cutting depth: Users can customize how deep the blade digs down into the ground.
• Guide wheels: Aiding in tracking straight when edging.
• Motor or engine: The main unit providing power to propel the blade.
• Handle and controls: A well-designed handle ensures user comfort and safety, typically incorporating ergonomic grips and trigger controls.

Key Features

There are some features that enhance performance and ease of use when choosing a powered lawn edger:

• Gas units generally use 20cc to 50cc engines that deliver a lot of torque for major edging work.
• Electric models measure power in amp ratings (for corded) or volt ratings (for cordless). A higher rating is usually a better cutter.
• Gas models need to be refueled but run longer without breaks.
• Cordless electric models rely on battery run time, doing most of them last 30–60 minutes between costs. Choose lithium-ion batteries for longer life and quicker recharging.
• Adjustable shaft and handle: Its adjustable handle is a comfort for users of all heights.
• Blade guard: Stops debris from flying towards the user.
• Trigger lock: Prevents accidental activation for added safety.

Pros and Cons of Powered Edgers

Powered edgers also have their pros and cons, including:

Pros

• Faster and More Efficient
• Less Physical Effort
• Precision and Consistency
• Handles Thick Grass and Hard Soil

Cons

• Higher Cost
• Maintenance Requirements
• Noise and Emissions
• Cord Limitations

Best Practices for Powered Edging

1. Clear away rocks, debris and other things that may injure the blade.
2. Edging: Use two hands to provide stability and control.
3. Guide wheels or an existing edge allow for straight, uniform cuts.
4. Begin with a shallow depth and add as needed.
5. Steady does it, keep it clean and even.

Top Lawn Edger Recommendations

The best lawn edger to keep a yard looking professional and tidy. Below, check out some of the best-rated lawn edgers available in various categories, such as gas-powered, electric, cordless and manual models.

1. Echo PE-225 Curved-Shaft Edger

With regards to gas-powered edgers, the Echo PE-225 is a well-known safe choice that can never go wrong. It’s perfect for bigger yards or difficult terrain, where a manual or electric edger could struggle. The curved shaft design gives the user more control, allowing for cleaner, crisper edges along sidewalks, driveways, and flower beds.

• Engine: 21.2cc 2-stroke gas engine
• Blade Size: 7.75 inches Weight: 13.9 lbs
• Shaft Type: Curved for better maneuverability
• Cutting Depth: Adjustable

2. Greenworks 12-Amp 7.5" Corded Lawn Edger

If looking for a lightweight, affordable, and eco-friendly lawn edger, the Greenworks 12-Amp Electric Edger is a great pick. It provides constant power, never needing fuel or battery charging. With its corded design, it can operate continuous well and is ideal for small to medium-sized lawns.

• Motor: 12-amp electric motor
• Blade Size: 7.5 inches
• Weight: 14.3 lbs
• Corded Design: Requires access to a power outlet
• Adjustable Cutting Depth: Yes

3. Ego Power+ Multi-Head Trimmer and Edger Combo Kit

There are many options for electric cordless edgers, such as Ego Power+ Multi-Head Edger which happens to be one of the most powerful options we've tested, giving gas-powered models some serious competition. It offers the advantages of battery power while also delivering strong cutting performance for medium to large lawns. The multi-head function provides users with the ability to use either the trimming or edging function.

• Battery: 56V lithium-ion battery (cordless)
• Blade Size: 8 inches
• Weight: 12 lbs
• Multi-Head System: Can switch between trimmer and edger
• Adjustable Cutting Depth: Yes

4. AMES Saw-Tooth Border Edger

For a low-tech, low-cost and effective manual alternative, the AMES Saw-Tooth Border Edger is the way to go for those who value simplicity and control. Its saw-tooth blade slices through grass and soil and works best in small lawns, flower beds and tight areas that powered edgers can’t reach.

• Blade Type: Saw-tooth steel blade
• Handle Length: 39 inches
• Weight: 3.5 lbs
• Manual Operation: No power required

5. Black+Decker 12-Amp String Trimmer/Edger and Trencher

Black+Decker 12-Amp String Trimmer/Edger and TrencherI is for homeowners who want a multi-purpose lawn tool. It can perform all three with a simple tool without requiring multiple ones to do so.

• Motor: 12-amp electric motor
• Blade Size: 7.5 inches
• Weight: 14.8 lbs
• 3-in-1 Functionality: Trimmer, edger, and trencher

Expert Tips for Lawn Edging

A lawn edge that is clearly defined adds to the overall aesthetic of a yard, making it appear cleaner, more polished, exactly like it was installed by a professional. Here, some expert tips for attaining a sharp, manicured finish.

1. Prepare the Lawn Before Edging

Edging is easier and more efficient with proper preparation. For a clean border between the grass and the sidewalk, driveway or garden beds, mow the lawn first. Cleaning leaves, sticks, and small rocks out of the edging area prevents ragged cuts and protects the edger blade.

Using a garden hose, string or marking paint, mark out a line so the edges are straight and even. This basic action helps keep things consistent, particularly when painting in curvilinear forms.

2. Use the Right Technique

The right technique when edging makes for sharp, clean lines. You want to go slow and steady to prevent any jagged or uneven edges. Use the edger at an even vertical angle for sharp, professional looking edges.

If have overgrown edges, make shallow passes and work up to a deeper cut to achieve a neat finish. Use these smooth, controlled movements to maintain an even flow for edge curved sections around the lawn, following the natural curve.

3. Maintain Equipment

Maintaining lawn edgers will improve their performance and longevity. A clean blade will protect against rust and dullness caused by dirt and grass residue that accumulates after every use. Sharpening the blade regularly will enable smoother cutting and reduce the ambiguity of edging.

If have powered edgers, make sure to check screws, belts, and motor parts periodically to confirm that they are working correctly. Well cared for gear performs better with less effort.

4. Follow Safety Precautions

Safety should always come first when using edging tools, which can be dangerous if improper. By wearing protective gloves, safety goggles and sturdy footwear you can prevent injuries. Take care to keep children and bystanders away from powered edgers to prevent injury. 

Ensure the tool is turned off and disconnected or that the battery is removed before cleaning or maintaining the tool. Following these safety measures will help ensure a smooth and safe edging experience.

5. Adjust for Seasonal Changes

Requirements for lawn edging come and go throughout the year based on how quick the grass grows and the weather. In spring and summer, when the grass is growing rapidly, edging should happen every 2-3 weeks for a clean look. During fall, cleaning up leaves and debris will help maintain clear clean edges.

This can damage both the lawn and edging tool, so it is better not to edge if the ground is frozen (as would be the case during winter). Other factors also contribute to sound edges; seasonal adjustments are important, as they promote healthy and well-defined edges through the year.

FAQs

Can I use a string trimmer as an edger?

Yes, most string trimmers have a edging feature. But a specialized lawn edger offers cleaner, straighter cuts and will give better, sharper lines to borders.

Are cordless battery-powered edgers good?

Yes, cordless edgers provide to the convenience and mobility, making them free from the restrictions of a power cord. But their runtime is limited by battery capacity, and they may not be as powerful as gas models.

What type of blade is best for a lawn edger?

The most durable and effective use hardened steel blades. Some edgers come with serrated or rotating blades that allow for improved cutting performance, which is particularly useful when working with thick grass or compacted soil.

The Bottom Line

A clean lawn edge defines a yard’s aesthetic, increases property value, and simplifies overall lawn maintenance. Manual or powered, regular edging between the grass and sidewalk, driveway, and flower beds prevents overgrowth and gives the yard a polished, professional appearance. Selecting the best edger for the setup depends on a few factors which are the size of the lawn, the type of grass in the yard, and whether prefer a manual or powered option. To make lawn care easier and better, Growcycle can offer buyers various premium models of lawn edgers from different sellers. 

Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or any other form of professional advice.

About the Author

Victor Miller

Environmental Journalist Focused on Sustainable Agriculture

Victor Miller is an environmental journalist at Growcycle, specializing in sustainable agriculture. With a passion for storytelling, he highlights the latest trends, innovations, and practices that promote ecological balance and responsible farming.