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A well-manicured lawn is often envied and desired. A regular and regimented landscape maintenance methodology can create the sought after manicured look. A vital component that is often overlooked is the practice of edging. Edging is defined as "the management of transition spaces between hardscapes with plant-based soft scapes". It is the act of trimming plant growth rate along a hardscape area in order to create a clean, uniform edge. The lines created by edging can also contribute to how people respond to the landscaped area. Assistant Professor Hansen de Chapman of the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences believes that the lines of landscaping can be straight, horizontal, vertical or curved with each producing a different visual and emotional reaction. In Basic Principles of Landscape Design, she explained that straight lines are formal and forceful causing the eye to be directed to a
specific focal point in the hardscape while vertical and horizontal lines can make the landscape itself appear larger. Curved lines, de Chapman wrote, "create an informal, natural, relaxed character that is associated more with nature and asymmetrical balance. Curved lines move the eye at a slower pace and add mystery to the space by creating hidden views".
The practice of edging can not only define an area though lines allowing for a smooth visual transition, but it also prevents (1) turf grass from sprawling into garden areas, and (2) soil or mulch from spilling over on to the lawn area.
If you would like to add visual interest to your property through the practice of professional edging please contact the LMP branch within your region. For a list of regional office visit our website: www.LMPPRO.com
LMP, Inc.
The Art of Edging