How to Edge Your Lawn with a Root Slayer Edger

By Radius Garden | Published: 2026-10-18

Category: How-to Guides

Learn the proper technique for using a Root Slayer 2.0 Edger to create clean, sharp lawn edges. Step-by-step instructions with common mistakes to avoid.

Quick Answer

Use the Root Slayer 2.0 Edger with a steady, rocking motion to cut a clean V-shaped trench along your lawn edge. The serrated blade slices through roots, so you don't need to pre-dig or use extra force.

Why the Root Slayer Edger Handles Roots Differently

Standard lawn edgers often bounce off thick roots or require you to chop repeatedly. The Root Slayer 2.0 Edger uses a serrated blade that grabs and cuts roots as you push down, making the job smoother. The O-handle design gives you two-handed control, which helps maintain a straight line and reduces fatigue on longer edges.

When to Edge and When to Skip

Edge your lawn when the grass is slightly damp — not wet — so the soil cuts cleanly without sticking. Avoid edging in very dry, hard soil because the blade may struggle to penetrate, and you risk straining your wrists. If your soil is extremely compacted, water it lightly the day before.

Step-by-Step Lawn Edging with the Root Slayer Edger

Mark Your Edge Line: Use a garden hose, string, or a line of flour to mark where you want the new edge. This gives you a visual guide and prevents wandering curves. Common mistake: edging freehand without a guide often results in wavy lines. Take 30 seconds to set a reference.
Position the Blade at a Slight Angle: Hold the O-handle with both hands and place the serrated blade against the turf side of your marked line. Tilt the blade about 10–15 degrees so the cutting edge points slightly toward the lawn. If the blade is vertical, it may bind in the soil. A slight angle helps the blade slice rather than wedge.
Push Down with a Rocking Motion: Press the blade into the soil using your body weight, not just your arms. Rock the handle forward and backward slightly as you push — this lets the serrations grab and cut through roots. Checkpoint: If you hit a thick root, don't force it. Rock more aggressively or move a few inches over; the blade is designed to cut roots, but jamming can stall progress.
Create a Continuous Trench: Work along your marked line, overlapping each cut by about an inch. Aim for a depth of 2–3 inches — deep enough to separate lawn from bed but not so deep that it collapses. Common mistake: leaving gaps between cuts creates ragged edges. Overlap slightly for a clean, continuous line.
Remove the Cut Sod Strip: After you've cut the full length, use the edger or a hand trowel to lift the strip of sod on the bed side. Shake off excess soil and compost or discard the strip. If the strip doesn't lift easily, you may not have cut deep enough. Go back and make a second pass at the same depth.
Clean Up the Edge: Sweep loose soil and clippings back into the bed or onto the lawn. Use a stiff broom to define the crisp edge. Water lightly to settle the soil. Checkpoint: A clean edge should show a sharp V-shaped trench. If it looks ragged, touch up with the edger before the soil dries.

Tool That Makes It Easier

Root Slayer 2.0 Edger: The Root Slayer 2.0 Edger is designed to cut through roots effortlessly, making it suitable for digging, cutting, and trenching. You don't need a separate root cutter or axe — one tool handles both the edge and any roots you encounter, saving time and effort.
Root Slayer 2.0 Edger