13 Tree Edging Ideas (Photos): Simple and Creative

Edging around trees isn’t just about looks; it’s about creating a neat and tidy border that complements the entire landscape.

Why is tree edging important? It not only enhances the visual appeal but also serves practical purposes like keeping mulch in place and protecting tree roots.

I’ve always found that a well-defined edge around trees can completely change the look of a garden, creating a harmonious blend with the surrounding elements.

1. Hand Edging

Hand edging is a simple way to keep the area around my trees looking neat. I prefer using tools like an edging shovel or spade.

They help create a clean line between the grass and my tree beds. It makes the tree stand out nicely in my garden.

I find hand edging a bit of a workout, but it’s worth it. It needs to be done every year or two.

Even though it takes some effort, the result is a polished look that I love.

My favorite thing about hand edging is its flexibility. As my trees and plants grow, I can easily change the shape of the beds. It gives me the freedom to experiment and enhance my garden over time.

2. Brick Edging

I like brick edging around trees because it’s both practical and stylish. Brick edging helps keep mulch in place and gives a clean look.

Also, brick is strong and can handle all types of weather. It fits well with different garden designs, adding charm to the space.

To set up brick edging, I start by digging a shallow trench around the tree. Then, I decide how I want the bricks: either laid flat with the wide side down or upright.

Either way, it’s important to align them properly. Getting everything straight might take time, but it’s worth it.

Using a rubber mallet, I gently tap the bricks into place. To ensure they are level, I use a line level on a string stretched between stakes.

This helps ensure that each brick stays at the same height. Once finished, the brick edging looks neat and tidy, giving the garden a polished appearance.

3. Grass and Shrub Edging

I use grass and shrubs to create a soft, natural edge around my trees. This approach blends nicely with the rest of my garden, giving it a seamless look.

Grass forms a simple and tidy outline, especially when kept well-trimmed.

Shrubs add more dimension and color. Choosing low-growing shrubs that fit the space well is important, so they don’t overwhelm the trees.

They can also help keep bigger animals away from the tree trunks, providing a little bit of protection.

It’s fun to mix different shades of green or even include flowering shrubs for extra charm.

Shrubs need a bit more care to keep them looking their best, but the effort is worth it. Seeing the vibrant colors and varied textures is a delight.

Both grass and shrub edging are practical choices for me, making my garden more inviting while being easy to care for.

4. Plastic Edging

When it comes to plastic edging, I find it incredibly versatile. It’s flexible, which makes it easy to shape around any tree or garden border.

You can create clean, precise lines or gentle curves with ease. This flexibility really helps when I want to change the layout of my garden later on.

Plastic edging is also quite durable. I don’t have to worry about it breaking down quickly, so it stands up well to the weather.

Plus, it’s lightweight, so handling and installing it is a breeze for me.

I also appreciate that it’s an affordable option. If you’re working on a budget, plastic allows you to get great results without breaking the bank. It gives me more freedom to make my garden look nice without overspending.

5. Gravel Edging

When it comes to keeping tree areas neat, I find gravel edging to be a fantastic option. It’s easy on the eyes and easy to set up.

Gravel allows water to flow through, so the tree roots get the hydration they need.

I like that adding gravel helps define the space around a tree. It gives a tidy border while letting me play with different colors and textures.

I can mix various grades of gravel to create a unique look that suits my garden.

For installation, I start by digging a small trench around the tree. A depth of about four inches works well.

Next, I fill this with gravel, ensuring it’s even. This gives a clean, finished look that’s both practical and stylish.

Gravel edging is quite low-maintenance too. I don’t have to worry much about upkeep.

It’s great that I can focus more on enjoying my garden rather than spending all my time working in it. Gravel offers a simple, elegant way to enhance my outdoor space.

6. Concrete Wall Edging

I really like using concrete wall edging around trees because it’s sturdy. It holds up well against different weather conditions.

I’ve found it adds a nice, clean look to the garden. Concrete is pretty easy to customize, so I can make it fit any shape or size of the area I’m working on.

When I’m installing concrete wall edging, I usually go for a depth of about 4 to 6 inches. This seems to make it strong and helps keep it from shifting.

It’s the right balance to support the weight and keep it in place, even if there’s heavy rain or the ground moves.

One of my favorite parts about concrete edging is that I can choose different designs. This lets me add a bit of personal style to my garden.

Whether it’s a simple pattern or something more unique, concrete makes it possible to tailor it the way I want.

7. Raised-Garden Bed Edging

This kind of edging can highlight the beauty of the plants while keeping everything neatly in place.

With raised-garden beds, you can create distinct sections in the garden. I enjoy choosing materials like wood or metal for a durable and attractive border.

It’s a practical way to keep soil in and prevent unwanted grass from creeping into the bed.

Choosing colorful flowers for the bed can add a pop of color around the tree. I find this approach enhances the natural beauty and makes it a focal point.

Plus, it can also give the garden a fresh and inviting look.

If you have a tree that could use some extra attention in your yard, adding a raised-garden bed might be a perfect solution.

It can be a personal project or, if it seems like too much work, contacting a landscaper is always an option.

8. Brick Wall Edging

Brick wall edging can greatly frame a garden area. It’s strong and gives a classic look that fits well in many types of gardens.

With brick wall edging, I find that it helps to define spaces clearly. Whether you have a small or large garden, bricks add structure.

Building a brick wall for edging is quite straightforward. First, I lay out the bricks in the desired pattern. This could be straight, curved, or even stacked for height.

One thing I really appreciate about brick wall edging is its durability. It holds up well to weather and wear over time.

This means less maintenance, which is always a plus for me.

It’s also versatile. I can use it to create raised beds or just to edge around trees. The uniform look of bricks brings a polished finish to any garden space.

9. Terracotta Edging

Terracotta edging can add a warm and rustic charm to any garden. The natural, earthy tones blend beautifully with green plants and colorful flowers.

It’s like bringing a little piece of Mediterranean style right into my backyard.

Terracotta tiles aren’t just pretty to look at; they’re also quite useful. They create neat borders, keeping different parts of my garden organized.

They help to keep mulch and soil in place, which is super helpful when it rains.

These tiles come in a variety of styles, from simple to ornate. I can choose antique ones with intricate patterns if I want a vintage look.

For a more modern approach, plain tiles do the trick.

Setting them up is fairly simple. I just bury them partially in the ground.

It doesn’t take long, and I find it’s a fun weekend project. Plus, they last a long time, making them a good investment for my garden.

10. Mixed Plant Edging

Mixed plant edging around trees adds a colorful and lively touch to the garden.

I like to choose different plants with varying heights and textures. This helps create a layered look. Some good options include perennials, grasses, and small shrubs.

Choosing plants that flower at different times can keep things interesting all year. Mixing evergreens with flowering plants ensures green foliage even in winter.

To get a balanced look, I mix taller plants like daylilies with shorter ones such as lavender. This adds depth around the tree base.

This type of edging not only beautifies the area but also benefits wildlife. Bees and butterflies often visit mixed plant borders, creating a mini haven for garden visitors.

When planning my mixed plant edging, I ensure each plant is suitable for the tree’s root space.

Plants that require less water are great next to trees, which often take up most available moisture.

I find it important to maintain my mixed plant edging regularly. This means pruning and ensuring plants have enough light and space to grow. These small efforts keep the garden looking its best.

11. Stone and Gravel Edging

Stone and gravel for edging around trees add a natural look that blends well with the landscape.

Stones come in all sizes and colors, so I can match them to my garden style.

Placing the stones is pretty easy. I just dig a shallow trench around the tree. It helps to hold everything together and keeps the gravel in too.

Gravel adds texture and contrast. When I lay it along the stone edging, it’s like giving the tree a stylish border.

It also helps with drainage, which is a big plus for tree roots.

One tip is to leave some space between stones. This allows water to flow through. It’s great for preventing puddles.

Stone and gravel together make for a low-maintenance yet attractive tree base.

12. Flagstone Edging

Flagstone edging is a great way to add charm and structure around trees. I like using flagstones because they come in various colors and thicknesses.

These natural stones help create a classic look that fits well in both country and cottage gardens. Plus, their irregular shapes give a unique touch to any yard.

Setting up flagstones isn’t too hard. I usually start by choosing pieces that match my garden’s style.

Then, I arrange them in a pattern around the tree base. This not only looks good but also helps keep mulch in place. It’s a win-win!

What I enjoy most about flagstone edging is its durability. Once in place, it can last for years with minimal upkeep.

And if I want to change things up, it’s easy to move or re-arrange the stones. It’s a flexible choice for anyone who likes to play with their garden design.

13. Natural Log Edging

Natural log edging is a great option if you’re looking for something eco-friendly and cost-effective. It lasts several years, and once it starts to break down, I can easily replace it with new pieces.

It’s a simple yet effective way to enhance any garden.

Materials for Tree Edging

Choosing the right materials for tree edging can beautify your garden and provide a clean separation between your trees and lawn. Different materials offer unique looks and benefits, making it important to understand the choices available.

Natural Stone Options

I love using natural stones for tree edging because they add a timeless, earthy feel to any garden.

Stones like granite, limestone, and sandstone are popular due to their durability and range of colors. With these stones, I can create an elegant border that requires minimal upkeep.

In my experience, arranging stones in interesting patterns not only enhances the aesthetic but also securely houses the mulch around trees.

I might opt for larger stones if I want to make a bold statement, or smaller, neatly arranged stones for a subtler look. Flexibility in design is a definite plus!

Recycled Materials

Using recycled materials for tree edging is a fantastic idea that I try to incorporate often. This eco-friendly option reduces waste and brings creativity to your garden.

Old bricks, broken tiles, or even bottles can be repurposed as unique garden borders.

When I use recycled items, it gives me a chance to be inventive while also being environmentally conscious.

Plus, these materials often bring unexpected colors and textures, making the garden space lively and distinctive.

It’s like giving a new life to discarded items, which adds a personal touch to the landscaping.