Installing Plastic Edging

With a spade, dig a trench along the edges of the bed to a uniform depth of 3 to 4 inches -- enough to let the edging stand at least 1/2 inch above ground level. Dig straight down to create a vertical "wall" that will support the edging.

Place the edging in the trench and bend it to follow the contours of the bed. Fill low spots with soil, packing it down firmly.

Trim strips of edging to length, if necessary, with tin snips. Or, cut strips to size with pruning shears, scissors, or a utility knife. To make joints less noticeable, place them away from corners, sharp bends, and angles.

To join strips of edging, slide a coupler halfway into one of the top channels. Pinch the first strip to hold the coupler in place and fit it into the second strip.

Anchor the edging with stakes at 3- to 4-foot intervals. Drive each stake at a slight angle through the lower outside edge.

Backfill behind the edging with soil, forcing the edging against the wall of the trench.