The clocks haven’t even gone back yet and we’re talking about Autumn we hear you say…
But, like it or not, the lighter nights are reducing and we turn our thoughts to reducing the darkness and installing garden lighting.
How should I light my garden?
There are many benefits in extending the lit hours in your garden:
- create an ambience around your decking/pergola area for dining or later evening drinks
- add volume to your dining area
- add interest
- improve security
- illuminate paths/walkways
Maybe you are choosing 1 or all of the above, in which case you’ll need varied light sources from mains to battery operated to Solar.
What are the pro’s and cons of garden lighting power sources?
Mains powered – this is the most reliable source and is obviously long-lasting but, it requires a professional electrician and with rising electricity costs could be more expensive to run
Battery powered – often to buy and easier to install and positioning anywhere isn’t an issue. Batteries don’t last for ever so expect replacements regularly depending on usage.
Solar powered – cheap to buy and replace, varied designs available, repositioned at will. Watch for low cost = low quality. Possibly a short life span, no good for security lighting and need to be positioned out of the shade ideally.
It may be that depending on your uses, you opt for 2 of the 3 above options with mains operated for security purposes and battery or solar for more ‘pleasure lighting.
Top tips for Autumn/Winter garden lighting
Leaf cover and colours reduce so to get the best impact from lighting your garden, consider these points:
- Highlight topiary with strings of fairy lights
- Use colourful spotlights to brighten and liven up a fountain or water feature
- Create a feature of the skeleton of a large tree with uplighting or moonlighting
- Directing a floodlight at a distinctive tree or interesting structure can make your outdoor area look truly unique
- Trees and evergreen borders can be illuminated in the winter to great effect
- Recessed uplights set into the edge of a deck or patio can distract from lack of leaf cover
Whatever your plans, take a look at our new Ellumiere range of garden lighting
Browse and buy online for collection or delivery.
