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Create a Garden Path

Before & After Garden Path Project Photo: Susan Romanoff

Over the years, my backyard has evolved from lots of lawn to extensive gardens. This has led my dogs, Archie and Aggie, to create their own racetrack through the garden beds. I decided to stop complaining about the trampled plants and consider it a helpful suggestion to create an intentional path through the garden.

Above is the well-worn area that shows promise for a real garden path.

I start by clearing out the plants I don't intend to keep (weeds). My handy 11-gallon Tubtrug makes the job easier.

Once the weeds are removed, the path begins to take shapeand not just in my mind!

I collect the few materials and tools I need: Pro Weed Mat, Pound-in Edging, Earth Staples, scissors, and a Rubber Mallet.

I roll the Pro Weed Mat along the path, cutting a separate section to create a curve in the path.

I secure the ends of the Weed Mat with Earth Staples, which prevents shifting of the mat as I work. It also holds the mat in place as Archie and Aggie resume their romps through the garden

Using a rubber mallet, I tap 8" Pound-in-Edging along the leading edge and the sides of the path. This will block weeds, and help contain the wood chips I will use for the path.