Garden edging is an essential component of any landscape design. It not only defines garden beds and pathways but also helps prevent soil erosion, keeps mulch in place, and adds a polished look to your outdoor space. Bunnings, one of Australia’s leading home improvement stores, offers a variety of garden edging options, but are they really the best choice for your garden? Let’s explore Bunnings garden edging and compare it with some better alternatives.

Bunnings Garden Edging Options

Bunnings offers a range of garden edging materials, including:

Plastic Edging: Lightweight, easy to install, and budget-friendly. Often comes in pre-shaped curves or straight strips.

Metal Edging: Typically made from galvanized steel or aluminum, these are more durable than plastic but may be prone to rust or bending if not installed correctly.

Timber Edging: Natural-looking and versatile, timber can complement garden beds nicely but may require regular maintenance to prevent rot or insect damage.

Concrete or Brick Edging: Heavy-duty and long-lasting, concrete or brick edging provides a solid structure but can be labor-intensive to install and costly.

While these options are convenient, many bunnings edging strip gardeners find limitations in terms of durability, aesthetics, and long-term performance.

Limitations of Bunnings Garden Edging

Durability Issues: Plastic edging can warp or break over time, while untreated metal and timber may deteriorate in harsh weather conditions.

Limited Design Flexibility: Many Bunnings options are standardized in size and shape, restricting creative landscaping designs.

Frequent Maintenance: Timber and metal require upkeep such as sealing, painting, or treating for rust and rot.

Environmental Concerns: Plastic edging is not eco-friendly and may contribute to long-term waste.

These limitations have led many garden enthusiasts to explore alternatives that offer better longevity, style, and sustainability.

Better Alternatives to Bunnings Garden Edging
1. Corten Steel Edging

Pros: Extremely durable, develops a natural rust patina over time, low maintenance, and visually striking.

Cons: Higher upfront cost, requires precise installation.

Best For: Modern gardens, multi-level beds, and areas where longevity is crucial.

2. Stone or Natural Rock Edging

Pros: Timeless look, highly durable, low maintenance, and environmentally friendly.

Cons: Can be labor-intensive to install, heavier material.

Best For: Rustic or traditional garden designs.

3. Recycled Composite Edging

Pros: Made from recycled materials, resistant to rot, low maintenance, and available in various colors and styles.

Cons: Slightly more expensive than basic plastic, limited availability in some regions.

Best For: Eco-conscious gardeners seeking long-lasting solutions.

4. Aluminium or Powder-Coated Steel

Pros: Lightweight, rust-resistant, sleek modern appearance, flexible shapes for curved beds.

Cons: Can dent under heavy impact, may need professional installation for large projects.

Best For: Contemporary garden designs and pathways requiring smooth, clean lines.

Conclusion

While Bunnings offers convenient and affordable garden edging options, they may not always provide the durability, style, or sustainability that modern gardeners seek. Alternatives like corten steel, natural stone, recycled composites, or powder-coated metal offer superior performance and aesthetic appeal. Investing in these options may cost more initially, but the long-term benefits—including lower maintenance and enhanced garden beauty—make them a worthwhile choice for serious gardeners.