The best way to put lights on an outdoor tree is to choose the right type of lights, safely secure them using appropriate methods for your tree’s size and type, and to plan your design beforehand for a beautiful, lasting display. This guide will walk you through it.
Adorning your outdoor trees with twinkling lights can transform your garden into a magical wonderland, especially during holidays or special occasions. But if you’re new to this, the thought of stringing lights around branches might seem a bit daunting. Will they damage the tree? How do you get them to stay put without looking messy? Don’t worry! We’ve all been there, wondering about the best approach. This guide is designed to make the process easy and enjoyable, helping you create a stunning light display that celebrates your tree and your home.
We’ll cover everything from selecting the perfect lights to gentle installation techniques that keep your tree healthy and happy. Get ready to shine!
Why Light Up Your Outdoor Trees?
Lighting up your outdoor trees isn’t just for the festive season. It’s a fantastic way to enhance your home’s curb appeal, create a welcoming ambiance, and extend the enjoyment of your garden into the evening hours. A beautifully lit tree can become a stunning focal point, adding a touch of enchantment to your landscape. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting an outdoor gathering, or simply enjoying a quiet evening, tree lights add a special sparkle. Plus, they can even offer a little extra security by brightening darker areas of your yard.
Choosing the Right Lights for Your Tree
The type of lights you choose makes a big difference in both the look and the effort required to install them. For outdoor trees, durability and safety are key. Here’s a breakdown of popular options:
- LED Lights: These are highly recommended for outdoor use. They are energy-efficient, meaning lower electricity bills, and they produce very little heat, which is safer for tree branches. LEDs are also much more durable and longer-lasting than traditional incandescent bulbs.
- Incandescent Lights: While they offer a classic warm glow, incandescent bulbs use more energy, get quite hot, and are more fragile and prone to breaking. If using these, be extra mindful of heat and potential fire hazards, especially around dry foliage.
- String Lights: These are the most common type. They come in various lengths and bulb styles, from tiny micro-lights to larger C7 or C9 bulbs.
- Net Lights: These are pre-formed nets that can be draped over bushes or smaller trees. They offer a quick and easy way to cover large areas with lights.
- Icicle Lights: Designed to mimic icicles, these lights hang down from branches and are great for creating a wintery effect on larger trees.
- Inflatable Lights: These are fun for holidays and easy to set up but are generally not designed for long-term tree decoration and can be quite fragile.
When selecting lights, always check the packaging for an “outdoor use” rating ETL or UL certified. This ensures they meet safety standards for use in wet or humid conditions. Look for lights with sturdy wiring and well-sealed bulbs.
Essential Tools and Supplies
Having the right tools makes the job much easier and safer. Here’s what you’ll likely need:
- Ladder: A sturdy ladder is essential for reaching higher branches. Ensure it’s placed on stable ground and use it safely. For very tall trees, consider a professional tree lighting service.
- Extension Cords: Make sure they are rated for outdoor use (look for the “W” rating).
- Light Clips or Zip Ties: These are crucial for attaching lights securely without damaging branches. Wire or plastic zip ties can work, but look for UV-resistant, outdoor-rated versions. Specialized light clips are often the most tree-friendly option.
- Timer: An outdoor-rated timer is useful for automating your lights, saving energy and effort.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from rough bark and potential electrical hazards.
- Safety Glasses: Especially important if working overhead or with older lights that might have brittle bulbs.
- Duct Tape or Electrical Tape: For securing connections or temporarily holding wires.
Planning Your Tree Lighting Design
Before you start winding lights, take a moment to plan. This is where you can get creative! Consider the type of tree, its shape, and the overall look you want to achieve.
Assessing Your Tree
Different trees call for different approaches:
- Evergreens (Pines, Firs, Spruces): Their dense foliage is perfect for wrapping lights. You can wrap them around the trunk and then spiral outwards, or weave them through branches.
- Deciduous Trees (Oaks, Maples): Bare branches in winter offer a unique canvas. You can outline the branches for a delicate, airy look or wrap the trunk and main limbs.
Design Ideas
- Trunk Wrap: This is a simple yet elegant option, wrapping lights around the main trunk.
- Branch Wrapping: Weave lights around individual branches for a more intricate effect.
- Spiral or Cascade: Start at the top and spiral downwards, or let strings of lights cascade from a central point.
- Outlining: For bare deciduous trees, tracing the outline of the main branches can be very striking.
- Clusters: Focus lights on certain sections or canopy areas for a concentrated glow.
Think about the color scheme too! Classic warm white, cool white, multicolor, or a specific theme color can all create different moods. For a cohesive look, try to use only one type of light string (e.g., all mini-LEDs) on a single tree.
The Best Way to Put Lights on an Outdoor Tree: Step-by-Step Guide
Now, let’s get to the fun part! Follow these steps for a beautiful and safe installation.
Step 1: Safety First!
Always prioritize safety:
- Inspect Lights: Before you even unpack them, check all light strings for frayed wires, cracked bulbs, or damaged plugs. Discard any damaged sets.
- Power Off: Ensure all power sources are off before you plug in or unplug any lights.
- Ladder Safety: Place your ladder on firm, level ground. Have someone stabilize the ladder if possible. Never overreach.
- Weather Conditions: Avoid installing lights in wet or windy conditions.
Step 2: Plan Your Power Source
Determine where you’ll plug in your lights. You’ll need an outdoor-rated electrical outlet. If the outlet is far, you’ll need appropriate outdoor extension cords. It’s often best to use as few extension cords as possible to minimize connections.
You can find outdoor-rated extension cords at most hardware stores. Look for ones that are specifically designed for heavy-duty outdoor use, often labeled as “all-weather” or suitable for temporary outdoor power distribution. For example, Kohler provides valuable information on outdoor electrical safety which includes guidance on extension cords.
Step 3: Attach the First Light String
Start at the base of the tree or at your desired starting point. Secure the plug end of the first string of lights. You can often tuck it behind a bit of bark or secure it with a clip.
Step 4: Wrap the Lights
This is where you get to be artistic! There are a few popular methods:
Method A: Trunk and Branch Wrap (Most Common & Versatile)
This method works well for most trees, especially evergreens.
- Start at the Trunk: Begin by wrapping the light string loosely around the main trunk, working your way up. Aim for about a 6-inch to 1-foot spacing between wraps.
- Branch Out: Once you reach a main branch, wrap the string around the branch a couple of times, then extend it to another branch or spiral along the current one.
- Secure as You Go: Use light clips or zip ties to gently secure the wire to branches at intervals. Don’t overtighten zip ties, as they can cut into the bark as the tree grows. Clips are generally more forgiving.
- Work in Sections: Continue section by section, weaving the lights through the branches. Try to keep the spacing relatively even for a polished look.
- Connect Strings: If you’re using multiple strings, ensure they connect securely. Tuck any excess wire neatly.
Method B: Branch by Branch (Detailed & Elegant)
This method is great for showing off the structure of trees, especially deciduous ones in winter.
- Start from the Top or a Major Limb: Begin by securing the start of your light string to a sturdy branch.
- Follow Branches: Carefully wrap the lights around each individual branch, following its natural direction.
- Individual Twists: You might want to wrap a branch multiple times for a fuller look, or just once for a delicate outline.
- Secure Every Foot or So: Use clips or soft ties to keep the lights in place.
- Connect Strings: When you finish a string, connect the next one and continue working your way down or across the tree.
Method C: Net Lights (Quick & Easy for Bushes & Smaller Trees)
Net lights are ideal for smaller trees or dense shrubs.
- Drape the Net: Simply drape the net over the tree or bush.
- Adjust and Secure: Pull the net taut in some areas and allow it to drape naturally in others. Use zip ties or clips to secure the edges of the net to branches, especially in windy areas.
- Connect as Needed: If one net isn’t large enough, connect another section according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 5: Securing the Lights
This is a critical step for both aesthetics and tree health:
- Use Tree-Friendly Clips: Look for specialized outdoor light clips designed for Christmas lights. They often have adhesive backing or a hook to attach to surfaces without piercing. Some clip directly onto branches.
- Gentle Zip Ties: If using zip ties, opt for UV-resistant outdoor versions. Don’t use them on young, actively growing branches where they can constrict growth. Loosely tie them so the tree has room to expand.
- Avoid Nails and Staples: Never use nails, screws, or staples to attach lights. These cause permanent damage to the tree and can create pathways for disease and pests. The Arbor Day Foundation emphasizes the importance of tree health and avoiding methods that damage bark.
- Regularly Check: Even with the best methods, it’s a good idea to check your lights periodically, especially after strong winds or heavy rain.
Step 6: Connect and Test
Once all strings are hung and secured, connect them to your power source. Ideally, use a timer. Plug everything in and test to ensure all lights are working. Troubleshoot any sections that aren’t lit.
Tip: If a section of lights doesn’t work, it’s often a single bulb that has burned out or is loose, especially in older incandescent strings. For LEDs, it’s less common, but check connections.
Tips for Tree Health and Longevity
Your tree is a living thing, and its health should always come first. Here’s how to light it up responsibly:
- Avoid Overtightening: As mentioned, don’t cinch zip ties or wires too tightly around branches. Trees grow, and constricting wires can damage the cambium layer, which is vital for nutrient transport.
- Use the Right Lights: LEDs generate minimal heat, which is much better for the tree than the warmth produced by incandescent bulbs. High heat can dry out needles or damage bark.
- Don’t Cover the Trunk Entirely: Allow some parts of the trunk and main branches to breathe. While decorative, complete encapsulation isn’t ideal.
- Remove Lights Promptly: Once the season or event is over, take the lights down. Leaving them up year-round can expose them to damaging UV rays, moisture, and physical stress, shortening their lifespan and potentially harming the tree if they degrade and wrap too tightly.
- Consider Timer Use: Using a timer not only saves energy but also means the lights aren’t on 24/7, giving the tree more time in darkness.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful planning, you might run into a snag. Here are some common problems and solutions:
- Lights Won’t Turn On:
- Check the power outlet.
- Ensure all connections are secure.
- Check the fuse in the plug if your light set has one.
- Identify and replace any blown bulbs (for incandescent) or check for damaged wiring on LEDs.
- Lights Flickering:
- This often indicates a loose bulb or connection.
- Check each bulb in the affected string.
- Ensure plugs are firmly seated.
- For older incandescent lights, a loose bulb can cause the whole string to go out.
- Lights Falling Down:
- Secure them more firmly using additional clips or ties.
- Ensure you’re attaching to stronger branches.
- Consider the weight of the lights – heavier lights need more secure attachment points.
- Wiring Damage:
- If you see frayed or damaged wires, do not use them! Replace the entire string.
- Minor damage might be temporarily repaired with heavy-duty electrical tape, but replacement is always the safest option.
Cost vs. Durability: A Quick Look
When deciding on lights, consider not just the initial cost but how long they’ll last. Investing a bit more in high-quality, outdoor-rated LED lights will save you money and hassle in the long run. You’ll use less energy, and they’ll likely last for many seasons.
| Light Type | Initial Cost | Lifespan | Energy Efficiency | Durability/Weather Resistance | Tree-Friendliness |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LED String Lights | Moderate to High | Very Long (50,000+ hours) | Very High | High | Excellent (low heat, flexible wiring) |
| Incandescent String Lights | Low | Moderate (1,000-2,000 hours) | Low | Moderate (fragile bulbs) | Fair (produce heat, fragile) |
| Net Lights (LED) | Moderate | Very Long | Very High | High | Good (easy to drape, can tangle if removed carelessly) |
| Icicle Lights (LED) | Moderate to High | Very Long | Very High | High | Good (can be heavy on thinner branches) |
As a general rule, for outdoor trees, the long-term benefits of LED lights far outweigh their initial cost. You’re investing in safety, efficiency, and longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How many lights do I need for one tree?
This depends on the size of your tree and the look you want. A general guideline is 100 lights per vertical foot of tree height for a moderately lit look. For a more dazzling display, use 150-200 lights per foot.
Q2: How do I avoid damaging my tree when I put up lights?
The key is to use gentle attachment methods like specialized light clips or very loosely tied zip ties. Avoid nails, staples, or overtightening. Always choose outdoor-rated lights, preferably LEDs, which produce less heat.
Q3: What is the best way to attach lights to branches?
For most evergreen trees, a combination of wrapping lights around the trunk and then spiraling them through branches, securing with clips or loose zip ties, is very effective. For deciduous trees, outlining branches can be beautiful. Always give the tree room to grow.
Q4: Can I leave outdoor tree lights up all year?
