Steel edging for a flawless lawn: here’s why it works

Creating the perfect lawn requires a blend of the right grass type, diligent care, and smart landscaping solutions. Metal landscape edging is one such solution that has gained popularity among homeowners and professional landscapers for being low maintenance but high impact. While steel edging enhances the aesthetic appeal of your outside space it also plays a critical role in lawn health and managing grass growth. But what makes steel edging so effective?

Understanding grass root structures

Before diving into the benefits of steel edging, it’s essential to understand the root systems of lawn grasses. Grasses typically feature two main types of root structures: fibrous roots and rhizomes or stolons.

Fibrous roots: the nutrient absorbers

Fibrous root systems consist of a network of delicate, thread-like roots that spread out from the plant’s base, residing primarily in the topsoil. These roots are characteristic of clumping grasses like the commonly used turf grass perennial ryegrass. The benefits of fibrous roots include:

• Efficient water and nutrient absorption: the extensive network allows the grass to access water and nutrients effectively.
• Erosion control: the dense root structure helps stabilise the soil which prevents erosion.
• Drought resistance: despite being shallow, the fine roots help the grass survive short drought periods by efficiently locating water and nutrients.

Rhizomes and stolons: the spreaders

Rhizomes and stolons are horizontal root structures essential for grass expansion and new growth establishment. Rhizomes extend beneath the soil surface, while stolons stretch along the top layer of the soil. Stoloniferous grasses like saltwater paspalum, which is common on New Zealand golf courses, exhibit these root types. Their advantages include:

• Rapid growth: these roots allow the grass to quickly cover bare patches, creating a uniform lawn.
• Quick recovery: grasses with rhizomes and stolons recover swiftly from damage due from foot traffic or other sources of repetitive action (hence ideal as a family friendly lawns).
• Weed resistance: the dense turf formed by these grasses naturally deters weed growth which reduces competition for water and minerals.



How steel edging complements grass root structures

Steel edging excels in creating clean, defined boundaries within your lawn but it’s also crucial for managing grasses with rhizomes and stolons. Here’s how steel edging helps achieve the perfect lawn:

1. Controls grass spread

Grasses with rhizomes and stolons can invade garden beds and other landscaped areas if not properly contained. Steel edging acts as a physical barrier, preventing these horizontal roots from spreading beyond their designated areas. This containment keeps the lawn tidy and well-defined, with grass only growing where you want it to.

2. Enhances lawn aesthetics

Although steel edging is a DIY installation project it provides a sleek, professional finish to your lawn edges. Unlike plastic or wood, steel edging maintains its form and function over time, contributing to a consistently manicured look to enhance the overall appearance of your landscape.

3. Supporting grass health

While steel edging restricts the lateral spread of rhizomes and stolons, it doesn’t inhibit the deeper fibrous roots responsible for nutrient and water absorption. This balance ensures the grass remains healthy and robust.

4. Easy installation and zero maintenance

Steel edging is straightforward to install and requires no maintenance. Once in place, it provides long-lasting support without the need for adjustments or replacements. Its robustness can withstand various environmental conditions, making it a reliable choice for any lawn.



By effectively managing the spread of grasses with rhizomes and stolons while supporting the essential functions of fibrous roots, steel edging ensures that your lawn remains lush, healthy, and impeccably defined. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to elevate your garden’s aesthetics or a garden landscaper seeking durable solutions, steel edging offers the perfect blend of practicality and visual appeal. Available in Cor-ten steel or EverEdge Classic galvanised and powder coated steel edging, are you ready to transform your garden? Order edging online or contact EverEdge NZ directly on 021 925 389 or email simon@everedgenz.co.nz if you have any questions or queries.