How to Use a Lawn Edger Like a Pro: Step-by-Step Guide

Using a lawn edger involves placing the tool, creating a clean line, and making smooth actions. A lawn edger is a tool used to create a clean edge between a lawn and a garden or driveway.

It creates a precise separation, ensuring that the lawn is well-manicured and visually appealing. If you’re looking to create a professional-looking lawn, a lawn edger can be a helpful tool to have. In this article, we’ll explore how to use a lawn edger to get the best possible results.

We’ll cover the basic steps, including preparation, edging, and finishing. With a little bit of practice, you’ll be able to use a lawn edger with confidence and get amazing results every time.

Preparing For Lawn Edging

Choosing The Right Lawn Edger

Before starting your lawn edging project, it is essential to choose the right equipment for the job. Here are some of the things you should consider before making your purchase:

• Type of edger: There are two types of edgers available – manual and motorized. Manual edgers require more effort but are suitable for small lawns, whereas motorized ones are ideal for larger areas.
• Blade type: Consider the type of blade that comes with the edger. A zigzagged blade is perfect for trimming grass, while a flat blade is suitable for creating deep cuts.
• Power source: Electric and cordless are the two common types of power sources for motorized edgers. Electric is suitable for smaller areas where a power socket is available, while cordless is great for larger spaces where freedom of movement is required.

Safety Precautions Before Using A Lawn Edger

Lawn edging can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken. Here are some steps you should follow to stay safe while using a lawn edger:

• Always wear appropriate safety gear, such as eyewear, gloves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes.
• Before using the edger, check the equipment thoroughly for any signs of damage or defective wires.
• Make sure the edger’s blade is sharp and correctly attached to the equipment.
• Avoid using the lawn edger around children, pets, or others standing nearby.
• Keep the edger’s cord away from the cutting path to avoid accidental cuts.
• Never use the edger when the grass is wet or while standing on rough terrain.

Preparing The Lawn For Edging

Preparing your lawn before edging can help achieve the desired results. Follow these steps to prepare your lawn for edging:

• Clear any debris, rocks, or sticks from the area you will be edging.
• Water the lawn thoroughly a day before the job. Edging on dry soil can cause the blade to slip and create wrong cuts.
• Mark the area you intend to edge using spray paint, stakes, or chalk.
• Use a string or garden hose to create a guide for the lawn edger to follow.
• Adjust the depth of the blade on the edger. Make the first pass at a shallow depth and slowly increase until reaching the desired depth.
• Make sure the edging machine is on level ground before starting the job.

By following these steps, you can prepare your lawn and yourself for the job at hand, resulting in a beautiful and well-manicured lawn in no time.

How To Use A Lawn Edger

Using a lawn edger may seem like a boring task, but with the right guidance, it can be a breeze. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use a lawn edger like a pro.

Step 1: Adjusting The Lawn Edger

Before using a lawn edger, it’s important to adjust it to your desired height. Here are the key points to consider:

• Adjust the depth based on the size of the grass and how deep you want the edge to be.
• Check the blade regularly and sharpen or replace it when necessary.
• Ensure that the blade is secure before use.

Step 2: Edge The Perimeter, Sidewalks, Driveways, And Pathways

Once you’ve adjusted your lawn edger, it’s time to edge the circumference, sidewalks, driveways, and pathways. Follow these key points:

• Walk slowly, keeping the blade perpendicular to the ground.
• Use the sidewalk or driveway as a guide to keep your edge straight.
• Work in sections, moving the edger back and forth for each pass.
• Keep your body positioned behind the lawn edger for safety.

Step 3: Cut Straight Lines Or Gentle Curves On Your Lawn

If you want to add some texture to your lawn, use the edger to cut straight lines or gentle curves. Here’s how to do it:

• Use a rope or garden hose to outline where you want the line or curve to be.
• Walk slowly and smoothly when cutting curves, maintaining a consistent distance between the lawn edger and the rope.
• Keep the blade parallel to the ground when cutting straight lines.

Step 4: Clean Up Leftover Debris

After edging your lawn, clean up the leftover waste. Remember the following key points:

• Use a broom or leaf blower to collect any grass or dirt left behind.
• Dispose of the debris properly.
• Rinse the blade of the lawn edger with water to remove any excess debris and prevent rusting.

Step 5: Maintenance Of The Lawn Edger

Proper maintenance will assure that your lawn edger lasts longer and performs better. Follow these key points:

• Regularly check the blade for wear and tear and replace it when necessary.
• Clean the lawn edger after every use to prevent corrosion.
• Store the lawn edger in a dry place away from the elements.

Using a lawn edger may seem like a daunting task at first, but by following these steps, you can achieve a professional-looking lawn with ease.

Tips And Tricks For Using A Lawn Edger Like A Pro

How To Create Professional-Looking Edges

Creating professional-looking edges requires a bit of time, effort, and patience. Here’s how to get it done like a pro:

• Step 1: Ensure that the soil is dry, and the grass is not too long.
• Step 2: Mark your selected edge line using spray paint or another marker.
• Step 3: Adjust the depth of the blade on the edger to your desired height.
• Step 4: Start edging at one end of your line and move the edger onward while keeping the blade blush against the ground.
• Step 5: Keep the edger steady and move the blade along the marked line to create clean, precise edges.
• Step 6: Once you complete your first pass, go over the edge again, this time at a slightly different angle.
• Step 7: Clean up any remaining debris using a broom or blower.

Avoiding Common Mistakes While Using A Lawn Edger

To avoid making mistakes while using your edger, here are some tips:

• Always wear protective gear, including sturdy shoes, gloves, and safety glasses.
• Take your time and don’t rush, as this can lead to rough, jagged edges.
• Make sure to hold the edger with both hands and maintain a steady grip.
• Don’t let the blade spin too fast, as this can cause the edger to jump and create a bumpy edge.
• Before starting, check the blade for any damage or dullness. A damaged or dull blade can cause rough edges and even harm your lawn.

Expert Tips For Efficient And Effective Edging

Tips for efficient and effective edging include:

• Use a wheel-based edger for easy maneuverability and precision control.
• Choose the right type of blade for your edger, depending on the type of grass in your lawn.
• Always start with a straight line and be consistent with your angle and depth.
• For a natural look, angle the blade slightly toward the lawn at a 45-degree angle.
• Edging at the right time, such as after mowing but before cutting back shrubs, can lead to better results.
• Use a string trimmer to clean up the edges after using an edger for a clean and shiny look.

Frequently Asked Questions Of How To Use A Lawn Edger

How Do I Use A Lawn Edger?

To use a lawn edger, first, wear safety gear, then adjust the blade and handle according to your height. Next, start the engine or motor, hold the edger to your side, and make sure it meets the ground, make slow and steady passes along the edge of the lawn.

Can We Use A Lawn Edger On Hills?

Yes, you can use a lawn edger on hills, but be careful. Tilt the edger at an angle that allows the blade to sit flat on the ground, and make sure it meets the ground before you start edging. Keep the edger steady and move along the edge, making slow and steady passes.

How Deep Should I Set My Lawn Edger?

The depth you set your lawn edger depends on the type of edger you are using and the consistency of your lawn. Start by setting the blade at the lowest depth, then slowly adjust it until it’s cutting the right amount of grass.

Aim to cut around 1 inch deep, or just below the grassroots.

Should I Wear Protective Gear When Using A Lawn Edger?

Yes, wearing protective gear when using a lawn edger is essential for safety. Wear goggles to protect your eyes, gloves to protect your hands, and earplugs to protect your hearing. You should also wear sturdy shoes with good traction for stability and balance.

Can A Lawn Edger Be Used To Cut Through Thick Roots?

No, a lawn edger is not designed to cut through thick roots. Attempting to do so can damage the edger blade or the edger itself. Instead, use a pruning saw or lopper to cut through any thick roots that may be in the way and complete with the edger.

Conclusion

Maintaining a beautiful lawn requires time, dedication, and the right tools. A lawn edger helps to define and separate the lawn from the sidewalk, garden, or driveway, giving a neat and tidy appearance. As you have seen, using a lawn edger is easy as long as you follow the right steps.

From choosing the right edger to preparing the area to be edged, to operating the machine itself, you can create sharp and clean lines on your lawn effortlessly. With regular use, your lawn will have that desired polished, professional look.

Proper maintenance of the edger is also important for extending its life. Following these tips will help you get the most out of your lawn edger and keep your lawn looking its best. Happy edging!