Lawn and Garden — FAQ
What's the difference between a lawn edger and a string trimmer?
Edgers create defined vertical cuts along hardscapes using metal blades. String trimmers use spinning line for horizontal trimming in open areas. Edgers produce cleaner, longer-lasting lines that enhance curb appeal and prevent grass encroachment.
Should I choose electric, gas, or manual?
Electric suits 90% of homeowners—unlimited runtime, low maintenance, and sufficient power. Gas excels on large rural lots exceeding 1 acre. Manual works for small urban gardens or as a precision supplement to powered units. Consider property size first.
How often should I edge my lawn?
Edge sidewalks and driveways every 2-3 weeks during peak growing season (spring/fall). Flower beds need edging monthly. Hardscapes with paver joints require weekly attention to prevent weed establishment. One deep edge per season suffices for most applications.
Can I use a lawn edger for trenching?
Some electric models like the WORX WG896 include trenching blades for shallow utility lines. Maximum safe depth is 2 inches—deeper risks cutting invisible dog fence wires or irrigation lines. Always call 811 for utility location before trenching deeper than 2 inches.
What edging depth should I use?
Set depth to 1 inch for routine maintenance along sidewalks. Use 1.5-2 inches for initial edge creation or bed renovation. Never exceed 2 inches without professional utility locating. Deeper cuts stress grass roots and increase recovery time.
Are cordless edgers powerful enough for thick grass?
Modern 20V lithium-ion edgers handle bermuda, zoysia, and fescue effectively. Runtime limits continuous use—expect 30-45 minutes per battery. For thick St. Augustine or neglected edges, corded electric provides more consistent torque. Carry a spare battery for uninterrupted work.
