A landscape border is a functional addition to the garden. It defines spaces, separates flower beds from unwanted growth, and maintains a neat appearance in the outdoor living area. There are many different materials that enhance landscape borders and bring aesthetic appeal to the garden. This post explores the best landscape border materials to fit your landscaping needs and tastes.
What is the Best Material for Landscape Borders?
Natural Stone – A Timeless, Durable Choice
Natural stone is popular for its durability and beauty. Granite, slate, and limestone are top choices and are adaptive to climate changes between seasons.
Advantages of Natural Stone
- Aesthetic Appeal – Natural stone evokes a timeless look, blending in with any garden style, be it traditional or contemporary.
- Durability – It’s an extremely durable landscape edging material and takes a long time before replacement is necessary.
- Easy to Maintain – Most types of natural stone require minimal cleaning.
Disadvantages of Natural Stone
- Costs – It tends to be more expensive than other materials.
- Installation – Setting natural stone can be labor-intensive and may require professional installation.
Wood Landscape Borders – The Organic, Flexible Option
Wood is another classic material choice for flower beds, lawn edging, and landscape borders. It brings warmth and a natural feel to your garden. Wood edging comes in options like cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated wood.
Advantages of Wood Landscape Borders
- Versatility – It’s versatile in the sense that wood can be cut into any shape or size allowing a high degree of accommodation for various landscape designs.
- Cost Effective – In general, wood is less expensive than stone and other border materials.
- Easy to Install – Wood borders are lightweight compared to other materials like stone.
Disadvantages of Wood Landscape Borders
- Maintenance – Wood requires treatment or staining to avoid damage, decay, and insect infestations.
- Durability – Treated wood doesn’t have the extensive service life of options like natural stone, especially in wet areas and areas where there might be termites.
Metal – A Modern, Smooth Look
Steel or aluminum landscape borders create a clean, smooth, and contemporary feeling to the yard. It’s a popular material in modern garden designs.
Advantages of Metal Landscape Borders
- Durability – Metal is robust and can handle harsh weather. This creates a modern look that’s minimal and clean, perfect for contemporary landscapes.
- Low Maintenance – Metal landscape edging options need little maintenance.
Disadvantages of Metal Landscape Borders
- Cost – High-quality metals are pricey.
- Potential to Rust – Some metals corrode over time.
Plastic & Composites – Affordable & Versatile
Plastics and composites are alternative trends in border materials. They often feature recycled materials and come in different styles, colors, and sizes.
Advantages of Plastic and Composite Landscape Borders
- Economical – These materials have a lower cost than stone and metal.
- Flexibility – Plastic edging is easily bent, allowing it to fit curved lawn and garden edges that don’t fall in a straight line.
- Low Maintenance – They don’t decay or rust and require less maintenance.
Disadvantages of Plastic and Composite Landscape Borders
- Less Aesthetic – Plastic and composite edging lacks the natural dignity of stone or brick edging.
- Limited Lifespan – They’re durable, but not as long-lasting as stone or high-quality metal.
Choosing a Landscape Border That Best Suit Your Needs
Each landscape border material has its own advantages and disadvantages. The best choice is the one that best suits your specific needs regarding design and climate requirements.
Weigh these factors with care, and you’ll find the perfect material to define and beautify your garden beds and landscape.
Antler Country Landscaping Omaha
Antler Country Landscaping was incorporated in 1997 and over the years has grown to offer professional landscape services, lawn care, and outdoor living spaces. Our mission is to enhance your outdoor experience. Contact us to learn more about our Omaha landscaping services.