Every homeowner dreams of a yard that looks like it belongs in a design magazine—but without the hefty price tag. Here’s the secret: you don’t need a $10,000 budget to create a polished, upscale outdoor space.
In fact, one simple landscaping trick, using just $20 worth of materials, can transform your entire front yard in a single afternoon. This low-cost upgrade is trending among Salt Lake City homeowners who want high-end curb appeal on a tight budget.
What’s the Trick? It’s All About Lawn Edging
That’s right—crisp, clean lawn edging is the visual cue that separates a professional-looking yard from an average one. Edging clearly defines garden beds, walkways, and grass areas, giving your landscape structure, balance, and instant sophistication.
And best of all? You can do it yourself with just a spade or edging tool and a small amount of affordable landscape materials.
Cost: As little as $20 for materials like chat fines, bender board, or gravel from DIY Landscape Supply in Salt Lake City.
Why Lawn Edging Has Such a Huge Visual Impact
Edging might seem subtle, but it creates contrast between different elements in your yard—grass, mulch, rock, and plants—which dramatically improves curb appeal. It’s the equivalent of putting a sharp frame around a painting.
More benefits:
- Keeps mulch, soil, and gravel neatly contained
- Makes mowing and maintenance easier
- Adds a high-end “finished” look
- Creates symmetry and flow between spaces
How to Edge Your Yard Like a Pro
1. Choose Your Edge Material
You don’t need fancy brick or stone to get results. Affordable options like chat fines, mulch, or decorative gravel are perfect for Salt Lake City climates and are available in bulk at DIY Landscape Supply.
2. Mark and Cut Your Edge
Use a hose or rope to outline your border. Then cut along the line using a flat spade or edging tool. For curved beds, keep the shape organic and natural.
3. Add a Clean Separation
Pour in chat fines or small gravel to create a narrow path that clearly divides grass from garden beds. You can also line the trench with metal or plastic edging if you want a more defined look.
4. Top Off with Mulch or Rock
Once your edges are cut and filled, add a layer of black or brown mulch, decorative bark, or pea gravel inside the bed for contrast.
Need materials? Shop local and affordable at DIY Landscape Supply for bulk mulch, gravel, and topsoil.
Real Salt Lake City Yards Using This $20 Trick
Homeowners across Salt Lake are already putting this trick to work:



FAQs
Does lawn edging really improve curb appeal?
Yes—edging creates definition, contrast, and visual structure. It’s one of the highest-ROI landscaping tricks available.
Can I do this without hiring a landscaper?
Absolutely. All you need is a shovel, some bulk materials, and a couple of hours. It’s beginner-friendly and low-risk.
What materials work best for DIY edging?
Chat fines, mulch, and pea gravel are budget-friendly and easy to install. Bender board and edging stakes help maintain clean lines over time.
How much material do I need for edging?
A 50 ft bed typically requires about 1/4 ton of mulch or gravel. Use the DIY Landscape Supply calculator to estimate your exact needs.
Where can I buy affordable edging materials in Salt Lake City?
DIY Landscape Supply offers bulk mulch, bark, gravel, and edging supplies for delivery or pickup—perfect for weekend DIYers.

Don’t Let Your Yard Blend In—Make It Stand Out
If you’re looking for easy landscaping upgrades, this is one of the fastest, cheapest ways to elevate your yard’s entire appearance. For less than the cost of dinner out, you’ll make your yard look like it was professionally designed.
Get started with affordable mulch, chat, and gravel from DIY Landscape Supply in Salt Lake City—delivered right to your door.