Natural edging vs. steel garden edging: the pros and cons

Garden edging is more than just a finishing touch - it’s a functional element that keeps grasses and weeds in check and creates definition in a garden landscape design. Whether you're drawn to a natural approach like the "Victorian trench" or a long term solution such as EverEdge steel garden edging, understanding the pros and cons of each option will help you make the right choice for your garden and lifestyle.

What is natural edging

Not be confused with naturescaping, natural edging, like the Victorian trench method, involves creating a clean separation between lawn and garden beds with a V-shaped trench. This approach is highly customisable and suits gardens with a softer, more organic aesthetic.

How to do a natural edge

Using a flat-edged shovel, dig straight down 3 inches along the outer edge of the lawn. Make another slice at a 45-degree angle in the direction of the border or flower bed. So the trench that’s straight downward on the lawn side and angled up to the border.

Pros of trench edging:

1.    Cost-effective: natural edging requires no additional materials, making it a budget-friendly option.

2.    Aesthetic appeal: the soft, flowing lines of a trench look cohesive with naturalistic garden designs.

3.    Ease of maintenance for mowing: lawn mowers can run along the trench edge, eliminating the need for additional trimming.

Cons of trench edging:

1.    Labour-intensive installation: digging the trench, especially if your garden is big or has large borders, is hard work. You also need to manually clear the exposed soil of weeds and grasses.

2.    Frequent maintenance: grass and weeds can quickly migrate into the trench, and it may need re-digging following heavy rain.

3.    Limited durability: soil erosion or plant overgrowth will reduce the trench’s effectiveness over time meaning regular touch-ups are essential.



Steel garden edging

Garden edging, such as EverEdge’s steel landscape edging products, provides a sleek, contemporary way to define your landscape. Whether you choose Corten steel edging for its rustic patina or our Classic edging for a clean finish, this method delivers durability and style.

Pros of steel garden edging:

1.    Easy installation: click here to download the installation guide and watch the video of how to install EverEdge garden edging.

2.    Long-lasting: steel landscape edging is built to withstand the New Zealand climate and strong enough to not be impacted by wear and tear (including lawn mowers and heavy weight). It will last decades with minimal upkeep.

3.    Precise lines: metal edging creates sharp, clean borders that suit contemporary and formal garden designs.

4.    Versatility: the steel edging is easy to manipulate to accommodate any curves in the lawn or beds. The steel is adaptable to various landscaping needs, from defining garden beds to installing metal tree ring edging.

5.    Low maintenance: once installed, steel edging minimises grass and weed migration by forming a physical barrier between the different areas of your garden. There is no necessity for annual trenching or repairs.

Cons of steel garden edging:

Higher initial cost: compared to natural edging, steel edging requires an upfront investment. However, its durability and no-maintenance offsets this over time.

Professional installation: if it’s an intricate layout or uneven terrain you want to use the steel edging for, you may need help with installation. However, we’re always on hand to offer advice and guidance for your steel garden edging project. Call 021 925 389 or email simon@everedgenz.co.nz if you have any questions.



Ready to upgrade your garden?

EverEdge offers a range of garden edging products NZ gardeners rely on to elevate their landscapes. Whether you need edging for paths, beds, or trees, our metal landscape edging solutions bring durability and style to your outdoor space – with no time commitment required to maintain. Beautiful, low-maintenance garden borders for years to come. If you have any queries about our products, please contact EverEdge NZ directly by calling 021 925 389 or by clicking here.