If you've ever watched a lawn crew work and wondered why they switch between two different tools near the end of a job, you're not alone. Edging and trimming are two distinct techniques that often get lumped together — but each serves a specific purpose. Knowing which one your lawn actually needs can save you time, money, and frustration.

What Is Lawn Edging?

Edging is the process of cutting a sharp, defined line where your lawn meets a hard surface — think driveways, sidewalks, garden beds, and curbs. The goal is a clean vertical cut that separates turf from pavement or soil, giving your yard a structured, intentional look.

This isn't about cutting grass height. It's about creating a boundary that holds the lawn's shape over time.

Tools Used for Edging

Manual half-moon edgers — best for occasional touch-ups on small yards
Electric or gas-powered rotary edgers — preferred for longer borders and consistent results

Key Benefits of Edging

Creates crisp, defined borders between lawn and hardscape
Stops grass from creeping into flowerbeds or cracks in pavement
Makes the entire landscape look more polished and intentional
Simplifies mowing by establishing a clear path along edges

What Is Lawn Trimming?

Trimming — also called weed-eating or string trimming — cuts grass and weeds in the spots a mower simply can't reach. Around fence posts, tree bases, building foundations, and tight corners, a mower leaves patches of overgrowth that make an otherwise tidy yard look unfinished.

A string trimmer handles these spots using a fast-spinning nylon line that slices through grass and light weeds with precision.

Tools Used for Trimming

String trimmers (weed eaters) — the standard tool for most residential trimming work
Brush cutters — heavier-duty option for thick or overgrown vegetation

Key Benefits of Trimming

Keeps the entire yard at a uniform grass height
Reaches obstacles that mowers cannot navigate around
Reduces weed pressure and pest habitat near structures
Completes the finished look after every mow

Edging vs Trimming: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Purpose

Edging defines borders. Trimming manages height in hard-to-reach areas. One is about structure; the other is about coverage.

Technique

Edging uses a blade to make a vertical cut along a fixed line — usually where turf meets concrete or soil. Trimming uses a spinning line to cut grass horizontally, mimicking what a mower would do if it could fit into tight spaces.

Frequency

Edging is typically done every four to six weeks, or whenever the lawn's borders start to blur. Trimming is part of routine weekly or biweekly lawn maintenance — every time the grass gets mowed, the edges need trimming too.

Cost Considerations

Edging sessions are less frequent but may involve specialized equipment or a professional service visit. Trimming is generally included in standard lawn care packages and adds up with regularity rather than complexity.

How to Decide Which Service Your Lawn Needs

Most lawns benefit from both — but the balance depends on your specific yard.

Large lawns with long hardscape borders (driveways, sidewalks, garden beds) will see the biggest visual payoff from consistent edging.
Yards with lots of obstacles — trees, fences, raised beds, utility boxes — need frequent trimming to avoid patchy overgrowth.
If a polished, manicured look is the goal, both services working together deliver the best result.
If budget is a priority, trimming with every mow plus seasonal edging is a practical and cost-effective approach.

Professional Lawn Edging and Trimming in Denver

Denver's climate creates specific challenges for lawn maintenance. Dry spells followed by intense growth periods mean borders can go from defined to ragged quickly. Grass varieties common along the Front Range also tend to spread aggressively, making regular edging especially important near driveways and garden beds.

Hiring a local landscaping professional ensures the right technique is applied at the right time — protecting your lawn's appearance through Colorado's unpredictable seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a string trimmer for edging?

You can tilt a string trimmer vertically to mimic edging, but the results are rarely as clean or precise as a dedicated edger. For defined, long-lasting borders, a proper edging tool gives significantly better results.

How often should I edge my lawn?

Most lawns need edging every four to six weeks during the growing season. If you notice grass creeping onto your driveway or sidewalk, that's a reliable sign it's time.

Is trimming the same as mowing?

No. Mowing covers the open areas of your lawn. Trimming handles the spots mowers can't access — around trees, posts, fences, and tight corners. Both are necessary for a complete, finished look.

Do professional landscapers include both services?

Most full-service lawn care providers include trimming with every mow visit. Edging may be offered as a scheduled add-on or included in premium maintenance packages — it's worth confirming when you request an estimate.