The Evolution of A Perfect Landscape Border in Colorado

The Colorado landscape presents unique challenges and opportunities for property owners. From the Front Range’s arid climate to the mountains’ alpine conditions, creating beautiful, functional outdoor spaces requires thoughtful design and durable materials. Among the most transformative elements in landscape design is the humble border—that critical transition zone between different landscape features.

Landscape borders have evolved significantly over the years. What began as simple wooden dividers or basic plastic edging has transformed into sophisticated solutions that enhance curb appeal while serving crucial functional purposes. In Colorado’s variable climate, where freeze-thaw cycles and intense sun exposure can quickly deteriorate inferior materials, selecting the right border isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about making a wise investment that stands the test of time.

The growing popularity of high-quality landscape borders across Colorado speaks to their value. Homeowners from Fort Collins to Colorado Springs and Denver to Grand Junction are investing in premium edging solutions that enhance their property’s appearance while simplifying maintenance. This shift toward quality borders reflects a deeper understanding of their long-term benefits and cost-effectiveness.

Why Landscape Borders Matter in Colorado’s Environment

Colorado’s distinct climate presents several challenges for landscape maintenance. The combination of low humidity, intense sun exposure, significant temperature fluctuations, and freeze-thaw cycles can wreak havoc on landscape materials. These environmental factors make proper landscape borders not just desirable but essential.

Without effective borders, Colorado homeowners face several recurring issues. Grass invades flower beds, requiring constant edging and weeding. Mulch and decorative stones scatter onto lawns and pathways after heavy rains or strong winds. Irrigation water runs off instead of remaining where needed, leading to water waste and potential foundation issues. Over time, these problems create ongoing maintenance headaches and diminish property value.

Adequately installed landscape borders address these challenges by creating clear, durable divisions between different areas of your outdoor space. They contain soil, mulch, and gravel, prevent grass encroachment, direct water flow, and maintain crisp, clean lines throughout your landscape. In Colorado’s environment, where outdoor spaces are heavily used and highly valued, quality borders provide practical benefits and visual appeal. Are you looking for the perfect landscape border? Continue reading.

Beyond Basic Curbing: The A Better Edge Complete Border System

When clients invest in a concrete border or lawn care service, they expect more than just a functional installation—they expect professionalism, durability, and a system that enhances their property for years.

We teach our students that landscape curbing isn’t just about adding a border—it’s about creating a long-lasting, seamless system that integrates with the yard, driveway, sidewalk, and home elements.

Choosing the Right Profile and Design for Your Colorado Property

The profile (shape) and design of concrete landscape curbing significantly impact its functionality and aesthetic appeal. Colorado homeowners should consider several factors when selecting the right profile for their property.

Profile Height and Width Considerations

The height of landscape curbing affects both its visual impact and functional performance. Lower profiles (3-4 inches) create subtle transitions between landscape areas and are less likely to be damaged by lawn equipment. Higher profiles (5-6 inches) provide more substantial visual definition and better containment of deep mulch or decorative stone.

Width is equally important, particularly in terms of stability. Wider bases (4-6 inches) distribute weight more effectively and provide better resistance to tipping or shifting, especially important in Colorado’s freeze-thaw environment. The top width affects visual weight and mowing clearance.

Mower Edges vs. Decorative Profiles

Mower edge profiles feature a flat or slightly rounded top with one side flush to the ground—ideal for transitions between lawn and garden beds. This design allows mower wheels to ride along the edge, eliminating the need for string trimming and reducing maintenance time.

Decorative profiles with more complex shapes create more assertive visual statements and can complement your home’s architectural features. Options range from simple rounded tops to elaborate multilevel designs resembling stacked stone or sculpted edges.

Color Selection for Colorado Landscapes

Color selection should consider both your home’s exterior and the surrounding landscape. Earth tones such as tans, browns, and muted reds complement Colorado’s natural landscape and most architectural styles. These colors also disguise minor staining or discoloration that may occur over time.

For contemporary designs, charcoal gray or black can create a dramatic contrast against green lawns or light-colored hardscapes. Many installers offer custom color matching, allowing perfect coordination with existing landscape elements or architectural features.

Textures and Patterns That Enhance Colorado Properties

Concrete curbing can be stamped or textured to resemble various materials, adding visual interest and complementing your landscape design. Popular options in Colorado include:

• Natural stone textures that blend with mountain and foothill landscapes
• Brick patterns that complement historic or traditional home styles
• Smooth, contemporary finishes for modern architectural designs
• Custom patterns that reflect personal style or specific design themes

The right combination of profile, color, and texture creates curbing that appears as an intentional design element rather than merely a functional border, enhancing your property’s overall aesthetic appeal.

The perfect landscape border does more than look good—it serves several practical purposes:

• Creates clear visual boundaries between different landscape elements
• Prevents grass from invading garden beds
• Keeps mulch, gravel, and other materials contained
• Reduces maintenance time by minimizing trimming needs
• Provides a clean, finished appearance to your outdoor spaces
• Enhances curb appeal and potentially increases property value

Types of Landscape Edging Materials

Metal Edging

Metal landscape edging offers a sleek, modern look and excellent durability. Available in aluminum, steel, and corten (weathering) steel, metal edging provides a clean line perfect for contemporary designs.

Pros of Metal Edging:

• Extremely durable with typical lifespans of 10+ years
• Creates crisp, precise lines
• Flexible enough for curved designs (especially aluminum)
• Low profile and minimally visible
• Rust-resistant options available

Cons of Metal Edging:

• Higher initial cost ($7-15 per linear foot)
• Installation can be challenging
• Sharp edges pose potential safety concerns
• May require specialized tools for installation

Steel edging typically comes in various thicknesses (14-gauge to 3/16″) and heights (4″-6″). Aluminum edging is lighter and more flexible, making it easier to create curves. Corten steel develops an attractive rust patina over time while maintaining structural integrity.

Stone and Brick Edging

Stone and brick edging provide excellent durability and aesthetic appeal for a timeless, natural look. These materials can complement traditional home styles exceptionally well.

Pros of Stone/Brick Edging:

• Extremely durable with lifespans of 30+ years
• Available in numerous colors, textures, and styles
• Creates a substantial, prominent border
• Can be used to create seating or raised features
• Natural materials that blend with the landscape

Cons of Stone/Brick Edging:

• Higher material costs ($6-30 per linear foot)
• Professional installation is often recommended
• Labor-intensive installation
• Less flexible for creating curved designs
• May require mortar or concrete footings for stability

Natural stone options include limestone, sandstone, granite, and fieldstone. Brick edging provides a classic look and is available in various colors and patterns.

Concrete Edging/Curbing

Concrete landscape curbing has become increasingly popular due to its versatility and durability. Concrete curbing is the perfect landscape border for many homeowners, and it is typically installed as a continuous edge using specialized equipment.

Pros of Concrete Curbing:

• Seamless, continuous border
• Extremely durable with lifespans of 15-20+ years
• Available in various colors, patterns, and textures
• Can be customized to match landscape design
• Prevents grass invasion and material migration
• Withstands freeze-thaw cycles better than segmented options

Cons of Concrete Curbing:

• Requires professional installation
• Higher initial investment ($10-20 per linear foot installed)
• Repairs can be challenging if damage occurs
• Difficult to modify after installation

Concrete curbing is often stamped or colored to resemble natural stone, providing the look of more expensive materials at a lower cost. It’s particularly effective for complex curves and slopes.

Plastic and Composite Edging

Plastic and composite landscape edging provide affordable, flexible options that are easy to install for DIY enthusiasts.

Pros of Plastic/Composite Edging:

• Inexpensive ($1-5 per linear foot)
• Lightweight and easy to install
• Available in various styles and colors
• Resistant to rot and insects
• Flexible for curved designs

Cons of Plastic/Composite Edging:

• Shorter lifespan (6 months to 3 years before maintenance, 1-10 years before deterioration)
• Less durable in extreme temperatures
• Can become brittle over time
• May rise from the ground due to freeze-thaw cycles
• Less structural strength for material containment

Wood Edging

Wood provides a natural, rustic look that works well in informal gardens and natural landscapes.

Pros of Wood Edging:

• Natural appearance
• Relatively inexpensive ($2-8 per linear foot)
• Easy to install and modify
• Works well for straight designs
• Can be stained or painted to match other landscape elements

Cons of Wood Edging:

• Shorter lifespan (3-10 years depending on wood type)
• Susceptible to rot, insects, and weathering
• Requires regular maintenance
• Less suitable for curves
• May warp or split over time

Pressure-treated pine is economical but has a shorter lifespan. Cedar and redwood offer better durability but at a higher cost.

Choosing the Perfect Landscape Border for Your Needs

When selecting the perfect landscape border for your project, consider these factors:

1. Purpose and Function

What do you need your edging to accomplish?

• Containment needs: For heavy materials like gravel or sloped areas, choose sturdy options like metal, stone, or concrete curbing
• Decorative purposes: If the edging is primarily aesthetic, consider more visible options like decorative stone or stamped concrete
• Lawn-to-garden transition: For clean lines between lawn and garden beds, metal or concrete edging works well
• Path definition: Consider wider options like brick or stone for defining pathways

2. Design Aesthetic

The perfect landscape border should complement your overall landscape design:

• Formal gardens: Brick, cut stone, or concrete curbing provide clean lines
• Contemporary designs: Metal edging or concrete curbing in modern colors
• Cottage or natural gardens: Wood, natural stone, or curved brick designs
• Xeriscapes: Corten steel or desert-toned concrete curbing

3. Budget Considerations

Budget often influences material choice for the perfect landscape border:

• Low budget: Plastic, composite, or pressure-treated wood ($1-8 per linear foot)
• Medium budget: Metal edging or poured concrete ($7-20 per linear foot)
• Higher budget: Natural stone, brick, or custom concrete curbing ($15-50 per linear foot installed)

Remember to factor in both material and installation costs. While DIY installation can save money with some materials, professional installation often provides better long-term results.

4. Climate and Environmental Factors

The perfect landscape border for your region must withstand local conditions:

• Freeze-thaw cycles: In areas with significant temperature fluctuations, concrete curbing, metal, or mortared stone provide stability
• Hot, sunny climates: UV-resistant materials like concrete or metal prevent degradation
• Wet environments: Choose rot-resistant materials like composite, stone, or metal
• Salt exposure: In coastal areas or where de-icing salts are used, avoid materials vulnerable to salt damage

5. Maintenance Requirements

Consider how much time you’re willing to devote to maintaining your landscape edging:

• Low maintenance: Metal, concrete curbing, and stone require minimal upkeep
• Moderate maintenance: Brick may need occasional re-setting; composite needs periodic inspection
• Higher maintenance: Wood requires regular sealing or staining; plastic may need repositioning after frost heave

Installation Considerations for the Perfect Landscape Border

DIY vs. Professional Installation

Some edging materials are more DIY-friendly than others:

• DIY-friendly: Plastic, composite, wood, and some metal edging systems
• Moderately difficult DIY: Brick and stone (without mortar), some metal edging
• Professional recommended: Concrete curbing, mortared stone or brick, complex designs

Basic Installation Steps

While installation varies by material, most landscape edging follows these general steps:

1. Plan and mark: Outline the edge using string, garden hose, or marking paint
2. Excavate: Dig a trench appropriate to your edging material (typically 2-6 inches deep)
3. Prepare the base: Level and compact the trench bottom, adding sand or gravel as needed
4. Install edging: Place the edging material according to manufacturer instructions
5. Secure and stabilize: Anchor with stakes, backfill, or other appropriate methods
6. Finish and backfill: Add soil or mulch to appropriate height and clean the area

Special Installation Considerations

The perfect landscape border installation should account for:

• Curves and corners: Some materials (like metal and concrete) handle curves better than others
• Drainage needs: Ensure water can flow through or around edging as needed
• Root systems: Install edging at appropriate distance from trees and large shrubs
• Access points: Consider maintenance access when designing enclosed areas
• Future modifications: Some materials are easier to modify later than others

Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Edging

Maintaining the perfect landscape border extends its lifespan:

Seasonal Maintenance

• Spring: Inspect for winter damage, reposition any displaced sections, clean accumulated debris
• Summer: Protect from damage during regular lawn maintenance
• Fall: Clear leaves and debris, make repairs before winter
• Winter: Use caution with snow removal tools around edging

Material-Specific Maintenance

• Concrete curbing: Seal every 2-5 years to prevent moisture intrusion and UV damage
• Metal: Check for rust, loose sections, or bent areas
• Wood: Apply preservative or stain every 1-2 years
• Stone/brick: Check for shifting or settling, re-level as needed
• Plastic/composite: Inspect for cracks or brittleness, replace damaged sections

Cost Comparison for Landscape Edging

Material Type	Material Cost (per linear foot)	Installation Cost (per linear foot)	Expected Lifespan	Maintenance Level
Plastic/Composite	$1-5	$2-5 DIY	1-10 years	Moderate
Wood	$2-8	$3-8 DIY	3-10 years	High
Metal	$7-15	$5-10	10-20+ years	Low
Concrete Curbing	$8-15	$10-20	15-20+ years	Low
Brick/Block	$6-20	$18-50	20-30+ years	Low-Moderate
Natural Stone	$8-35	$18-50	25-50+ years	Low

The Perfect Landscape Border for Specific Applications

Garden Beds

For garden beds, the perfect landscape border should:

• Prevent grass intrusion
• Be tall enough to contain mulch (3-6 inches)
• Complement the garden plants and style
• Allow for easy maintenance access

Best options: Metal edging, concrete curbing, or stacked stone

Driveways and Walkways

The perfect landscape border for pathways needs to:

• Withstand pedestrian or vehicle traffic
• Provide clear visual guidance
• Contain base materials (gravel or sand)
• Resist damage from snow removal

Best options: Concrete curbing, brick, or substantial metal edging

Lawn-to-Hardscape Transitions

For transitions between lawn and patios or decks, look for edging that:

• Creates a mowing strip to reduce trimming
• Prevents grass from invading the hardscape
• Provides a clean, finished appearance
• Sits flush or slightly below the hardscape for drainage

Best options: Concrete curbing, metal edging, or stone

Tree Rings

The perfect landscape border around trees should:

• Allow for tree growth over time
• Permit water penetration to roots
• Contain mulch effectively
• Complement the landscape style

Best options: Flexible edging materials like metal, composite, or concrete curbing installed with expansion space

Trends in Landscape Edging

Current trends in creating the perfect landscape border include:

1. Mixed materials: Combining different edging types for visual interest and functionality
2. Multifunctional borders: Edging that serves as seating, lighting mounts, or raised planting areas
3. Sustainable options: Recycled materials and locally-sourced stone
4. Lighting integration: Edging systems with built-in or attached landscape lighting
5. Color contrast: Using an edging color to create visual interest against plants or hardscapes

Conclusion: Creating Your Perfect Landscape Border

The perfect landscape border elevates your outdoor space while serving important functional purposes. By considering the unique needs of your landscape, your aesthetic preferences, and your maintenance capabilities, you can select edging that will enhance your property for years to come.

Whether you choose the sleek lines of metal edging, the timeless appeal of natural stone, the versatility of concrete curbing, or the warm character of wood, your landscape edging represents an investment in both the beauty and functionality of your outdoor environment.

With proper selection, installation, and maintenance, the perfect landscape border will define your outdoor spaces, reduce your maintenance workload, and provide lasting value to your property.

More info can be found on the Colorado State University 1105 – Landscaping and the Law.