The Home Growns
Flat-and-Upright Combo Brick Border
What makes this design so effective
This layout combines one flat row with one upright row. The flat brick gives you a mowing strip, while the upright brick adds a stronger edge to hold mulch and slow grass spread.
It’s one of my favorite “pretty and practical” options. You get structure without giving up curb appeal.
Why it works so well in messy beds
If your mulch washes out during storms or sprinkler runoff keeps nudging soil into the lawn, this layout helps. The upright row acts like a mini guardrail.
I first used something similar on a front bed that kept bleeding bark mulch onto the sidewalk. It was one of those fixes that made me wonder why I didn’t do it sooner.
Where to use it
This layout fits nicely in mailbox gardens, front island beds, and curved borders that need more definition. It’s especially good in visible areas where you want the edge to look more finished.
It does take more labor than a flat single row, so I save it for places where I really need the extra performance.
If soggy soil is your real issue, hit the next button below, because brick and gravel together can solve more than just grass creep.
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