Picking garden edging comes down to balancing upfront cost, durability, and how much effort you want to put into installation. If your goal is simply the lowest total spend while still keeping your garden tidy, a few options stand out clearly once you compare real-world costs and lifespan.
What is the most affordable border edging option?
Flexible plastic or HDPE edging is generally the most affordable option. It has the lowest upfront price per metre, it’s easy to install without special tools and labour costs stay close to zero because almost anyone can fit it with just stakes and a mallet.
This makes it ideal for tight budgets, rental properties, quick weekend projects, and gardens where you just want a clean boundary rather than a long-term structural edge.
Why flexible plastic/HDPE edging is the cheapest overall
Plastic edging is cheap to manufacture and sold in long rolls, so you typically pay far less than timber, metal, or concrete per metre. It's lightweight and bends easily, so installation doesn’t require trades, concrete, or heavy tools. Total project cost stays low because both material cost and labour time are minimal.
Practical downsides to consider
Plastic edging isn’t as rigid as steel or concrete. It can bow if used to hold back heavy soil, and long-term sun exposure can cause brittleness over the years. Expect a lifespan of around 5+ years depending on quality and climate. For most garden beds and lawn edges, this is more than enough, but it’s not a forever solution.
How it compares with other “cheap” edging options
Timber edging: Usually the next-cheapest option, especially if you can access discounted or reclaimed timber. Easy to install, but can rot or attract termites, meaning replacement costs come sooner.
Galvanised steel edging: Higher upfront cost but extremely durable and keeps a crisp line. Better lifecycle value but not the cheapest initial spend.
Brick or concrete pavers: Great longevity and very tidy, but the most expensive once you include materials and labour time.
Bottom line
If your priority is the smallest initial cost for a functional garden border, flexible plastic/HDPE edging is the best choice. It’s inexpensive, simple to install, and offers solid value for most everyday garden beds and lawn edges. Timber can also be cheap when sourced well, but plastic/HDPE remains the lowest-cost, lowest-effort option for most people.