The Best Edging Options for Artificial Grass: Synthetic Edging Solutions Compared

Curious about keeping your artificial lawn looking flawless year after year? The secret isn’t just in the turf but what frames it.

Across Melbourne, artificial grass has become the go-to choice for homeowners who crave green, vibrant lawns without the endless mowing and watering. 

With the shift towards sustainable, low-maintenance landscaping, more people are turning to synthetic turf for backyards, courtyards, pool surrounds, and even pet zones. But one often-overlooked element can make or break the finish — edging.

While the lush look of turf catches the eye, edging does the heavy lifting by keeping everything firmly in place. Strong, well-designed boundaries prevent shifting, stop weeds from sneaking in, and maintain the sleek, seamless appearance of your lawn.

In this article, you’ll discover which edging solutions work best in Melbourne conditions, how to pair them with your landscape style, and why quality installation makes all the difference.

Artificial grass delivers instant greenery with none of the mud, mess, or mowing — but without proper edging, even the best synthetic turf risks looking unfinished or becoming unstable. 

Edging is the unsung hero of a lasting installation. It acts as the anchor for turf, locking it into place, helping it withstand foot traffic, pets, wild weather, and time itself.

Whether you’re tackling a DIY installation or opting for a professional fit-out, understanding what edging is and how it functions helps ensure the outcome is more than just skin deep.

Types of Edging

• Timber Borders: Treated pine or hardwood planks blend naturally into garden designs and work well for raised lawns or curved layouts. These options are budget-friendly, though susceptible to rot over time if drainage isn’t spot-on.
• Plastic or Composite Edging: Lightweight and flexible, this option adapts easily to curves and contours. UV-resistant versions fare well under the Aussie sun but may shift if not installed with proper pegs or anchor points.
• Aluminium and Steel Edging: Sleek, modern, and near-indestructible. Metal edging delivers a razor-sharp finish and excels in contemporary or minimalist outdoor settings. The higher initial cost is offset by longevity and virtually no maintenance.
• Concrete Haunching: Often hidden beneath the turf line, concrete provides an immovable edge for heavy-duty applications. Ideal for high-traffic areas like schools or sports surfaces, though not always suitable for softer, residential landscaping styles.

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Advantages

Every edging type above exists for one reason: to preserve the look and structure of your turf. Without it, artificial grass can lift, curl, or slide — especially around the borders. 

Edging enhances weed control, supports clean cuts, and allows infill like sand to stay evenly distributed. For DIYers, it offers a critical guide for laying turf with precision.

Common Challenges

The biggest challenge? Choosing edging that matches both the environment and the turf type. Some materials struggle with prolonged exposure to Melbourne’s weather, bouncing between heat waves, frost, and soaking rain. 

Others can move over time if not anchored properly. And in some sloped backyards, drainage must be factored in to prevent erosion or pooling around the turf edge.

When it comes to choosing the best edging, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution — but there is a standout combination of durability, aesthetic appeal, and resilience that works beautifully across local landscapes.

For most homes, aluminium edging strikes the perfect balance. It resists corrosion, handles wild temperature swings, and delivers a crisp, contemporary look that elevates any lawn. 

Lightweight yet strong, this material bends easily to suit curves or complex layouts while staying firmly locked into the ground. It won’t rot, crack, or discolour — all vital in Melbourne’s four-seasons-in-a-day weather.

For those after a more natural finish, treated hardwood timber offers timeless warmth. While not as long-lasting as metal, hardwood brings a soft edge that’s particularly at home in cottage gardens or family spaces. 

Timber needs occasional oiling and must be kept off soggy soil, but with proper installation, it holds its shape well and delivers great value.

If maximum strength is the priority — say for driveways, pet runs, or steep yards — concrete haunching remains unmatched. Though invisible once installed, it grips turf with serious staying power and prevents any lateral movement. 

However, it’s not suited to every backyard aesthetic and requires skilled hands to install properly.

The best edging depends on several factors:

• Foot traffic – Will kids or pets be charging across the lawn?
• Style – Do you want a sleek urban finish or a softer garden vibe?
• Drainage – Is your property flat, sloped, or prone to heavy rainfall?
• Maintenance appetite – Are you after set-and-forget or willing to do occasional upkeep?

Site Conditions to Consider

Every yard tells its own story. Melbourne’s terrain swings from compact city lots to sprawling semi-rural blocks, each bringing unique challenges.

Soil Type & Drainage

Sandy soil offers easier shaping but needs compacting to avoid shifting. Clay-heavy ground retains water — edging here must allow for expansion and avoid blocking water flow. 

Installing AG drains or choosing breathable edging materials can prevent soggy surprises.

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Slope & Run-Off

On sloped properties, edging must double as erosion control. Reinforced barriers, concrete haunching, or anchored steel edging prevent soil movement and turf lift. 

Drainage channels may also be necessary to direct water safely away from foundations.

Common Edging Sizes & Heights

Choosing the right size isn’t just cosmetic — it affects functionality and safety.

• Standard Edging Height: 75–100mm works well to sit flush with most turf types.
• Thicker Options (100mm+): Ideal where elevation is needed to retain infill or where high-traffic edging is exposed.
• Slimline Finishes (50mm): Suitable for pathways or decorative border areas where a minimalist profile is preferred.

Always match the height with the infill depth to avoid “sunken” edges or trip hazards.

Recommended Materials by Application

• Backyards & Play Areas: Timber or flexible composite edging provides a soft, safe boundary.
• Driveways or Footpaths: Steel or concrete edges offer strength and resistance to vehicular wear.
• Pool Surrounds: Aluminium works well with pavers and resists corrosion from pool chemicals.
• Pet Zones: Reinforced edging keeps turf pinned in place, even with regular digging.

Melbourne Council Regulations

Nature Strips

Many local councils restrict artificial turf installations on nature strips or verge areas. Edging may be disallowed altogether unless done with permeable materials or removable borders. Check with your local authorities before proceeding.

Heritage & Overlay Zones

If your home falls within a heritage overlay or planning zone, any landscaping works — including turf or edging changes — might need permits. Materials like visible steel or concrete may be rejected in favour of timber or natural stone.

Permits & Approvals

In most residential settings, no formal permit is required to install edging within private garden space. However, exceptions include:

• Properties within new estates: Landscaping guidelines set by developers may dictate allowable materials and positions.
• Shared boundaries: Edging near fences or neighbour-adjacent areas may fall under fencing laws. Mutual consent or written agreements can avoid disputes.
• Drainage Systems: If edging affects stormwater direction or swale drains, local building approvals could apply.

When it comes to creating a flawless, long-lasting synthetic lawn, edging isn’t something to guess — it’s something to get right from the start. 

With over 15 years of proven experience and a reputation built on quality, value, and expert service, Reelgrass is Melbourne’s go-to team for precision turf installations.

Backed by a decade-long product warranty and a commitment to sustainable landscaping, we help homeowners avoid the pitfalls of poor planning, underperforming materials, and costly rework. 

Call us today on 1300 306 389 or send us your plans for a free quote (typically we’ll reply within 3 business days).