Winter Landscaping Made Easy: How to Use Recycled Plastic Edging

As the winter season approaches, many homeowners and landscapers begin to consider how best to preserve the beauty and structure of their outdoor spaces. The colder months bring a distinct set of challenges, from frost damage to the overall maintenance of garden aesthetics. One solution that stands out for both its practicality and environmental benefits is the use of recycled plastic edging. As a UK-based recycled plastic specialist, Kedel provides insights into why this choice is not just a sustainable option, but also a superior one for winter landscaping. 

This guide will explore how recycled plastic edging can simplify your winter landscaping; let’s get started!

A Move Towards Sustainability

In recent years, there has been a significant shift towards more sustainable practices in landscaping. Traditional materials, often susceptible to weather-induced wear and tear, are increasingly being replaced by more durable, eco-friendly options. Recycled plastic products, in particular, are at the forefront of this transformation. These products are not only crafted from waste plastics that would otherwise contribute to landfill but are also designed to last, reducing the need for frequent replacement and maintenance.

Kedel’s recycled plastic edging embodies this sustainable ethos. Made from a wide array of recycled materials, ranging from packaging to industrial plastics, it helps close the loop in a circular economy. This approach minimises waste and reduces the carbon footprint associated with producing new materials.

Durability: Weathering the Winter Storm

One of the most compelling advantages of recycled plastic edging is its durability. Unlike wood, which can rot, warp, and splinter when exposed to moisture and freezing temperatures, or metal, which may rust and degrade, recycled plastic is impervious to the elements. This weather resistance is particularly beneficial in the UK, where winter conditions can be harsh and unpredictable.

The material’s inherent resistance to moisture means it won’t absorb water, expand, or crack, making it an ideal choice for cold, wet weather. Additionally, its resilience ensures that it maintains its structure and appearance even after repeated freeze-thaw cycles. This stability means your garden beds and pathways retain their defined edges throughout the winter, preserving both form and function.

Low Maintenance: Spend Less Time and Resources

Winter is not the best time to be outdoors handling garden upkeep. Recycled plastic edging significantly reduces the maintenance needs of your outdoor space. While wood or metal edging might require treatments or replacements due to weather-induced damage, recycled plastic maintains its integrity with minimal intervention. Its colour is embedded throughout the material, meaning it won’t fade or require repainting or staining. This saves both time and resources, allowing homeowners and landscapers to relax, knowing their garden will hold its edge throughout the season.

A simple routine check is usually sufficient to ensure the edging remains free of debris or soil build-up, thereby maintaining its drainage capabilities and aesthetic appeal. In essence, choosing recycled plastic edging converts time spent on maintenance to time enjoyed in a beautiful, hassle-free garden environment.

Eco-Conscious Choice: Supporting the Circular Economy 

When selecting landscaping materials, it’s essential to consider the environmental impact. Recycled plastic edging is a sustainable alternative that not only uses post-consumer waste but also encourages the reduction of landfill contributions.  By choosing recycled plastic, you support initiatives that work to stabilise environmental health, reduce deforestation, and economise the manufacturing process. Moreover, since these products are made from recycled materials, their production requires less energy compared to new plastic, which is a more resource-intensive process. This positions recycled plastic edging as a low-carbon solution that aligns with broader global sustainability efforts.

Versatility in Design

While practicality and sustainability are at the forefront, aesthetics equally play a critical role in landscaping. Recycled plastic edging offers remarkable versatility in design, allowing you to create custom borders that seamlessly integrate into your garden’s overall design.

Available in various styles, sizes, and colours, recycled plastic edging can be used to highlight garden beds, delineate pathways, or separate lawn areas effortlessly. Whether your landscape design leans towards the traditional or involves more modern, sleek lines, there is a recycled plastic edging that complements your vision.

Additionally, plastic edging can easily be manipulated to create curves and custom shapes, following the contours of your landscape without cracking or splitting. This flexibility not only supports creativity but also ensures that all installations are both functional and visually appealing.

Guidance for Installation and Best Practices

For those considering recycled plastic edging for their winter landscaping needs, understanding installation processes and best practices can ensure optimal results. Here are some expert insights:

Step One: Preparation is key. Before installation, clear the area of debris and ensure it is dry and level. This helps provide a stable foundation for the edging and prevents misalignment or instability later.

Step Two: Laying the edging accurately involves precise measurement and marking of the eventual layout. Recycled plastic edging is lightweight and easy to handle, reducing the effort required to place and secure it. It is usually staked into the ground using pegs or spikes, which hold it in place against frost heave or shifting soil.

Step Three: Add landscape fabric beneath the edging to help prevent weed growth and maintain neat borders. The fabric acts as a barrier, reducing maintenance efforts throughout winter and fostering a clean line between lawn and garden areas.

Step Four: Regular inspection, while not demanding, should be carried out to ensure the edging remains in place and effectively defines your garden spaces. Occasional brushing to remove leaves or soil build-up will maintain its pristine appearance and function.

Create a Cohesive Landscape with Kedel

Recycled plastic edging serves as a foundation for broader landscaping projects and pairs well with other innovative products from Kedel’s range. Consider integrating the following to create a sustainable outdoor space:

Recycled Plastic Decking: Offer robust, attractive walking surfaces for paths or secluded garden areas. Impervious to winter weather, it retains durability and appearance without the need for sealing or frequent repairs.

Planters and Raised Beds: Made from recycled plastic, these can simplify winter gardening by providing a stable environment for plants that can withstand adverse conditions without degrading.

Fencing and Railings: Ensure privacy and safety with recycled plastic solutions that resist rotting and corrosion, blending functionality with a consistent, sustainable aesthetic.

Transforming your garden into a winter-ready haven doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With Kedel’s recycled plastic edging, you can create defined, enduring landscapes that withstand seasonal changes without compromising on environmental responsibility. As a leader in sustainable landscaping solutions, Kedel continues to help homeowners and landscapers make informed decisions that support ecological well-being, allowing gardens to thrive even during winter.

As you plan your winter landscaping projects, consider the uses and benefits of recycled plastic edging. Incorporating recycled plastic into landscaping is a step towards reducing our impact on the planet while ensuring optimal performance and aesthetics in our gardens. Whether for new installations or upgrading existing spaces, these products represent a durable, responsible choice for anyone committed to sustainable living.