Choosing Outdoor Tree Lights

Outdoor tree lighting is a great way to create a unique look and enhance your outdoor space. However, it’s important to choose the right outdoor tree lights for your landscape.

First, you’ll need to decide whether you want uplighting or downlighting. Uplighting is when you place the light source below the tree, pointing upwards.

Choose Your Aesthetic

If you’re decorating a tree with lighting, it’s important to choose your aesthetic. This will affect how the light will look when it’s on, as well as how the bulbs you choose will illuminate your tree.

For example, if you’re going for a romantic, intimate look, choose soft lights that will evoke a mystical forest. On the other hand, if you’re looking to set a party scene, go for brighter and more colorful lights.

In order to choose your aesthetic, it’s important to consider the size and shape of your tree, as well as the overall look you want to create. For example, a large, mature tree may need more powerful lighting to draw attention to its shape, while a small tree can only benefit from a single path light.

A narrow trunk can look particularly elegant when uplit with an in-ground light placed directly underneath it. This technique highlights the shape of the tree and will transform its appearance in an evening.

Choose Your Power Source

Outdoor tree lights are a wonderful way to highlight natural elements of your landscape. They add a dramatic effect to any tree, and can be used to accentuate oddly-shaped branches and limbs.

Aesthetically, you can use tree lighting to create a magical winter wonderland. Consider the overall feel of your yard and the type of gathering you want to throw, then choose a style that fits your vision.

Regardless of your aesthetic, it’s important to choose the right power source for your outdoor tree lights display. This will make the process much easier and ensure your lights are safely powered up for years to come.

The safest option is to plug your lights into a nearby outlet. If that’s not an option, you can also plug them into a heavy-duty extension cord rated for outdoor use. Just be sure to use a GFCI (ground-fault circuit-interrupter) protected cord or one with a safety cover.

Choose Your String Lights

The right lights can transform any outdoor space into a cozy, fun and festive one. And they’re particularly easy to install.

When choosing your string lights, consider the shape of the tree or structure you’re lighting and the mood you want to create. For example, small bulbs are best for subtle background illumination, while large decorative bulbs like Edison-style bulb lights can make a style statement.

Next, choose the length of the lights. They should be long enough to cover the area you want them to illuminate.

You can also hang string lights on a wall, fence or the dividers between different areas of your yard. They can even be hung from trees or bushes, as long as they are weather-resistant.

After you’ve selected your string lights, use a pair of pliers to drill guide holes in the trees where you plan to hang them. Then, using a helper, thread each string light from one tree to the next.

Choose Your Extension Cord

If you want to create a beautiful, festive display of outdoor tree lights this holiday season, it is important that you choose the right extension cord for the job. There are many factors to consider when selecting your electrical cord, including length, gauge and power capacity.

Choosing the correct electrical cord for your job is essential to avoid damage to your home and safety. Here are some important tips for safely using your extension cord during your Christmas light display.

A gauge is a number used to determine the amount of wire within an electrical cord. Usually, the higher the gauge, the thicker and stronger the cord. If you are going to be running an extended amount of wire, it is best to select a thicker gauge cord such as a 16-gauge one.