The Right Edging Plants

There are two general types of perennial plants well suited to edging. Spreading stonecrops (Sedum) are good for sunny sites, with foliage in shades of green, blue, red and yellow, and clusters of pink, red, yellow or white star-shaped flowers in early to midsummer. Part-sun or shaded sites have more options, from myrtle (Vinca minor), Japanese spurge (Pachysandra), ivy (Hedera helix) and bugleweed (Ajuga). These plants are often sold in flats or small pots, providing many small plants that can be spaced out for quick cover. Consider the width of the path and the overall habit of the plant. Some mat-forming ground covers will grow over the pavement, and vase-shaped plants that are wider at the top than at ground level will arch over - these are good to soften straight lines but not good for a narrow path.

If the edger is between the pavement and the lawn, also keep in mind that these plants will spread into the grass. The lawnmower will generally keep them in check, but if the yard has pristine turfgrass, install plastic or metal edging to contain the plants.

The second type of edging plant is much more refined. These are low, mounded or slowly spreading plants provide a uniform effect at the margin of a larger mixed planting.

Ideal candidates play nice with others, keep in their bounds, and provide attractive foliage, showy flowers and a long season of interest-important here, since they are the most constantly visible area of the planting. You'll have to buy more and usually larger plants to get quick results, but need only worry about keeping the lawn out of the garden, not the other way around.

For shade, consider small-growing hostas, Chinese astilbe, Japanese painted fern, foam flower (Tiarella) and gingers (Asarum).