How to use an edging knife?

bit of an obvious question really - but i've never used one before.

Just want to re-define my half moon border, so any tips appreciated!

 

Step 1: sharpen it so's you can shave with it.

Step 2: Keep it sharp

Define the line you wish to cut. Garden hose for sweeping curves or use either planks of wood or builder's line for straight edges. Circles are best marked with a central peg and lenth of twine tied to a nail to define the perimiter. For ellipes use two pegs. It is possible to cut freehand shapes but it requires a good eye and for tight radius internal curves (less than 1') you really need an edging knife with a curved blade

Using a sharp edging spade is easy. Cut full spade depth straight down on the edge you have defined then remove the spade by withdrawing it vertically. The next cut is then made about 1/4 spade width to either the left or right of your first cut. Once you have started the edge you then progress round your defined line. With a good sharp tool the turf should come away in a single slice.

If the turf is dense and the tool sharp (sorry!) you should be able to shave less than 1/8" off the edge but aim for a minimum of 1/2" until you get the hang of it.

Edging spades as bought are generally far too thick and have a poorly ground blade at an angle of about 45deg. and are frequently beveled on the back face to boot. They need a lot of work with a file or angle grinder before they are really usable. I have an ancient carbon steel spade that is no more than 1/16" thick at the busness end and I keep it angled to a razor sharp 25deg. The back of the blade is kept flat. It is a tool for purpose and never gets used for anything else.

Once you have cut the turf and removed it, go over the border edge with a garden fork and push some of the soil away from the lawn edge to create a shallow 'V' to an equal depth all the way round. It not only aids drainage but helps prevent grass from growing back into the border and gives a very clean, professional look to the whole garden.

[ 29. March 2007, 12:42 PM: Message edited by: frogesque ]