Options for Solar Garden Lighting

Are you considering adding some charisma to your garden with solar lighting? If so, it’s a good idea to do some planning to make sure that you combine the ambiance of garden lighting with practical function. Here are some of the kinds of solar lights available, and some ideas for how to use them to best effect in your garden.

Solar path lights are simple and easy to install. They can be inlaid into the ground to light walkways, gravel paths, or flower bed edges. These lights typically have a built-in photo cell, which causes the light to come on automatically when it gets dark, along with a built-in battery compartment and solar panel. It’s best to place these in areas where they will receive direct sunlight to ensure that the battery is fully recharged during the day.

Solar flood lights most often use very bright LED bulbs that have built-in reflectors and specialized lenses for maximum light output. If you decide to place the flood light in an area that doesn’t get much direct exposure to the sun in the daytime, be sure you choose a model with a removable solar panel that can be positioned for optimal sunlight exposure so that it will fully recharge during daylight hours.

For highlighting unique ornamental garden plants and architecture, solar powered spot lights are an excellent choice. They can give your home extra curb appeal by drawing attention to specific decorative plants in front of your home. They can also enhance the ambiance indoors if you can see the yard from the interior of your home.

Solar string lights are another fast and simple option. These hanging lights create a warm, festive ambiance outdoors. Clear solar string lights are sometimes called “fairy lights” because of the magical atmosphere they create. They are also called “Italian lights” because they are often used to adorn restaurant patios in Italy. Many homeowners enjoy them so much because they can leave them up all year long.

Solar light posts come in a variety of heights, from as low as 20 inches to more than six feet in height. The shorter models make great features for driveway entrances. Taller fixtures work well for lighting walkways, patios, or entryways, providing light for both beauty and safety.

Because these lights are powered by the sun, there is no pricey electrical installation required for any of these fixtures. You can plan your design and install your solar lighting fixtures all at once or in incremental steps, according to your time and your budget.