Types

• Precast stones are blocks of concrete that resemble quartz, limestone or granite and are installed similar to pavers. Concrete curbing is available in 6-inch-wide and 4-inch-high sections that defines flower beds, while mower's edge curbing is slightly curved so the lawn mower does not hit it while mowing surrounding grass. Stamped concrete edging is another type of edging that features precast designs on it. Concrete is also poured in a trench around the flower bed.
  
  

Installment

• To install precast concrete edging, dig a trench around the flower bed as wide as the edging material, but 1/2 to 3/4 inch shorter so the top protrudes from the surrounding soil to form a visible barrier. Level the base and spread an even layer of gravel to improve drainage. Start from one corner of the trench and lay the concrete edging material over the gravel until you reach the other end. Pack dirt into gaps between pavers. For pouring concrete, create a trench around the flower bed and place assembled concrete forms into the trench. Pour concrete into the forms, level it and leave to cure. Remove the forms when concrete is dry.
  
  

Considerations

• Concrete edging requires maintenance every spring in northern areas, as extreme temperatures and hard freezes can distort or heave it. Careful attention during installation is important to prevent the edging from cracking or shifting, which then requires costly repair or replacement.