How to Install Landscape & Garden Edging That Stays Put

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Getting Started

If you’re planning an edging project and want low-maintenance performance season after season, this page will walk you through how the 2xEDGE edging solution works before you buy anything.

Below you’ll find an overview of the installation process, planning tools, and step-by-step resources designed for DIYers who want durable results without digging trenches or pouring concrete.

If you’re still gathering ideas, feel free to explore.

If you’re actively planning a project, this page will help you decide what to do next.

How It Works

This illustrated walkthrough shows how the 2xEDGE edging solution is installed — including tools needed, working with different lumber lengths, and how staple spacing is determined.

Planning an edging project?

If this approach looks like a good fit, the next step is figuring out how many staples you’ll need and which lumber size you’re working with.

ESTIMATE STAPLES & PLAN YOUR PROJECT

Estimate how many staples your layout will require before you finalize your materials.

Plan Your Project Before You Build

Good results start with planning. Before you cut lumber or begin installation, these tools help you plan your edging project so everything fits together cleanly.

How Many Staples Do I Need?

Use the calculator to estimate quantities based on your layout and lumber size.

Best if you’re planning a specific project.

USE THE CALCULATOR

Project Planning Guide

Think through layout, corners, and transitions before installation.

Helpful if you’re still finalizing your design.

VIEW THE GUIDE

Installation Basics

Once you’ve planned your project, these step-by-step guides walk through installation in more detail.

How to Install a 2xEDGE Staple

Covers tools, placement, and driving staples correctly.

Good if you want to understand the fastening step in isolation.

LEARN HOW TO INSTALL STAPLES

How to Install Lumber with 2xEDGE

Shows how staples and lumber work together for long runs and corners.

Best if you’re visualizing the full process.

LEARN ABOUT LUMBER INSTALLATION

This installation method relies on 2xEDGE Staples to secure dimensional lumber from above. Staple size and spacing vary depending on your project layout.

VIEW 2xEDGE STAPLE OPTIONS

Compare staple finishes that fit your project design and aesthetic.

Is Your Project the Right Fit?

  • The 2xEDGE approach works especially well if:

    You want clean, defined wood edging without digging trenches.

    You're working with standard dimensional lumber (2x2, 2x3, 2x4, 2x6).

    You want edging that holds its position but can be adjusted over time.

    You like the option to remove, reset, or reuse materials as your landscape evolves.

    Your soil is workable. Quick test: if you can push a screwdriver a few inches in without much force, you're in good shape.

  • 2xEDGE may not be the best fit if:

    You're not planning to use 2x lumber (or 2x recycled plastic lumber) as your edging material.

    Your soil has an existing compacted base of rock, gravel, or sand — such as along a pathway that was originally built on a prepared base. In these cases, the staples can bend before reaching stable soil.

    Your soil is extremely compacted (hardpan clay, caliche, or desert hardpack) and pre-watering the area 24–48 hours before installation isn't practical for your situation.

    There's more to know: Read more about soil and site conditions and how 2xEDGE customers have navigated issues they've encountered during edging installation projects.

  • A few real-world considerations:

    Arid or dry climates: Many customers in desert climates install 2xEDGE staples successfully but soil condition on installation day matters a lot. If your ground is bone-dry, a deep watering 24-48 hours before you install can make a significant difference. Dry soil that feels like concrete will soften enough to accept a staple after a good soak. If pre-watering isn't practical for your situation, 2xEDGE may not be the right product for your project.

    Rocky soil, tree roots, or buried debris can make staple placement more challenging in certain spots. In these cases, it’s common to shift a staple slightly until you find clear ground.

    Installations next to poured concrete, such as sidewalks, walkways, or parking strips can sometimes limit where staples can be placed due to hardened concrete beyond the visible edge. This may result in uneven staple spacing, which is normal and does not affect performance.

Ready to Move Forward?

Hundreds of DIYers have used the edging approach shown above - from small garden beds to full landscape borders.

If you've reviewed the installation approach and planning tools and the 2xEDGE solution looks like a good fit for your project, explore staple options and order quantities here.

EXPLORE 2xEDGE STAPLES