Lawn and Garden — FAQ
What's the difference between a lawn edger and a trencher?
An edger creates clean borders between lawn and hard surfaces, cutting vertically. A trencher digs horizontal grooves for installing edging, irrigation, or cables. Many tools under $150 combine both functions by adjusting blade angle and depth.
Should I choose corded or cordless under $150?
Corded models deliver more consistent power and unlimited runtime, ideal for large jobs. Cordless offers convenience for quick touch-ups but limited battery life. At this price point, corded electric provides better performance value, while cordless suits smaller yards.
Can manual edgers work on hard or rocky soil?
Manual edgers struggle with compacted clay and rocks, requiring significant effort. For tough soil, choose saw-tooth blades and soak the area first. Electric models with 12-amp motors handle dense soil better, making them worth the extra cost for challenging conditions.
How deep should I set my edger blade?
For maintenance, 1-1.5 inches removes overgrowth without disturbing roots. For restoring overgrown edges, use 2-2.5 inches to create a defined border. Always start shallow and increase depth gradually to avoid motor strain or blade damage.
What maintenance do budget edgers require?
Clean blades after each use to prevent rust and grass buildup. For electric models, check cord integrity and store indoors. Manual edgers need occasional blade sharpening. All models benefit from lubricating adjustment mechanisms seasonally.
What warranty should I expect on sub-$150 edgers?
Most electric models include 2-3 year limited warranties covering defects. Manual tools often have lifetime warranties on metal components. Read fine print—batteries on cordless kits may have separate 1-year coverage. Retailer extended warranties rarely add value at this price.
