Edgings are a way to mark beginning and endings of garden sections. Sometimes statuary can be used to mark this, but this does not always work.
The ‘cable’ design is a popular pattern involving tile edgings, however many experts say it simply just tries to imitate something it never truly can. This idea is very unflattering when left as a permanent structure, and the tiles do not look good when placed in curves.
Edging tile is probably best done without. Brick edgings are more pleasing, durable, cost efficient, and stable, making them a much better choice.
Brick edgings can use simple builders red bricks. They can be laid flat, with the top level to the surface with gravel. This edging acts as a margin to the path, while being and effective border for the soil. This form is often associated with a box edging. It could be set on its side to stand half its width above the ground as well.
There is little difference between these two styles. Both are used to create concealed edgings, and make durable and pleasing edgings that are less likely to be damaged.
When using bricks around curves, they need to be laid endwise to the line, using old bricks. This is also a useful divider between turf and gravel. It helps to prevent the laborious need to trim the turf constantly, while preserving the original line at the same time. The bricks that need to be chosen for edgings need to be hard and well burnt, that is wire cut or pressed. Molded brocks are hollow on one side, making them ineffective.
If cost is not a factor, consider using “plinth” brick over rectangular brick. One of the edges is beveled, making it perfect for use in edging. The price averages about fifteen dollars per thousand, which brings it materially higher in cost than the common brick, but still cheaper than the edging tile.
Stone edgings can also be used in areas where it is abundant and cheap. Stones have the advantage of coming in different lengths, and you can add it to any desired section, or place it roughly dressed. With some efforts you can buy old cheap paving stones and use them as well.
Slate is another idea for edging. Use piece one inch thick if possible. Slate is durable and effective as an edging. Slate is not the best choice in color for a flower bed, but works fine for a vegetable garden.
Flint is the cheapest and most common type of edging. However, considering appearance and durability, it is also the least desirable. Each flint needs to be large, and should be buried deeply. Some areas choose to bleach the flint to make to appear better, but this is not recommended.
If a bed or border needs to be raised over ground level, build up the edging with flint brickbats. Flint is not particularly special beyond the fact that it is abundant and available easily. Rough natural stone can be used in the same way as flint if available.
Wood edgings are the least useful and most artificial type of edging. They work well when you want to make gravel paths before laying permanent edgings. Wood is usually only used in kitchen gardens, because the appearance is unpleasant. Wood in soil encourages the growth of fungus.
Do not use unprepared wood for more than two seasons, and if you seek to use it longer make sure it is treated with a tar solution or creosoted. The best way to secure wooden edgings is to nail them to small square pegs that will be driven into the soil. Any edging should not stand higher than necessary to form a barrier to keep earth in the area.