Recent technological advances have made the use of fiber optic lighting an option when choosing lights for gardens. These lights use no electricity and are safe for use around water and in the weather without fear of being electrocuted. Fiber optic lights only require one light bulb which also makes them an economical choice.

Gazing balls are another way of adding lights for the garden that use fiber optics. Typically they contain a solar collection panel to absorb the sun’s energy during the day. At dusk the fiber optics bring a soft light that adds romance and mystique to the garden area. These gazing balls perform double duty as beautiful décor during the day and soft light at night.

Adding lighting to pathways using fiber optic rope lights creates a dramatic entrance to your home. You can follow the curvatures of paths and drives creating dramatic effects at dusk. Fiber optic rope lights are also decorative when used on decks to outline the shape of the deck. For those who are artistically inclined there are shapes available with rope lights attached, including fireflies, butterflies and other animals.

Sunflower Solar Light Photo by Crystal Church

In addition to fiber optic lighting, another choice that saves energy and is cost effective is solar lights for gardens. These lights collect their energy during the day to charge the batteries that power them at night. Through the use of photocells they turn on and off according to the light outside.

Solar lights are available in practically every size, shape and design that standard electric outdoor lights are. There are also solar lights for gardens that are designed to look like natural flames, such as solar powered tiki torches and paper lanterns.

Water features are beautiful when lit up. There are solar lights for the garden that are submersible and that float on top of the water. These create reflections that dance across the top of the water illuminating it with spectacular visual effects.

A recent addition to lights for the garden is garden rocks or moon stones. These lights are typically LED lights encased in frosted heavy duty glass or an unbreakable type material. The light effect is said to resemble moon stones. They can be purchased heavy duty enough to walk on. Moonstones are great for pathways in that they provide a lighted path leading around your garden.

Lights for gardens are available in many types, forms, designs and power options. From electrical, to fiber optic and solar, homeowner’s can design their landscape to include a variety of lighting options. Adding lights for the garden allows you to extend your living space to include the outside areas of your home.

-Sharon V Chapman