Go Solar

Few things are prettier in a night garden than soft pools of light illuminating trees, rocks, plants and pathways. Whether on a small terrace or in a sweeping landscape, lighting creates a welcoming and often dramatic atmosphere.

But in some cases, buried-wire electric lighting can be costly and impracticable. The answer might be to "go solar" instead. The technology of solar lighting has been refined in recent years to include new batteries that take and hold a charge bthey can stay outside in any weather, and are available in various watts and colors.

Jamie Durie, author and host of HGTV’s The Outdoor Room, suggests three ways to use solar lighting:

“First, light your perimeter. It gives some perspective, and is a creative way to show the boundaries of your property,” Durie says. “Next, mark out your walks and pathways. Lastly, feature trees and other features with up-lighting, or even by attaching solar lights to walls and fences.”

Durie’s not a fan of “clinical” white LEDs, preferring those with amber light. "Make sure when buying solar lights that they’re all the same tone. And for areas where you want greater intensity, look for lights with more than two and preferably four LEDs in them."

Target carries a variety of solar lighting, from traditional garden stakes (like these from Smith & Hawken, shown here) to lanterns to string lights. You can check out the full selection on Target.com.