The Many Facets of Outdoor Tree Lighting

By Michelle Ryan, regional editor

Tree lights were used to cover a broad expanse of walkway, turf and driveway. There is a risk in projecting the effect of moonlighting so far from the tree since visual angles decrease with distance. In this case, the low angles were acceptable since the tree is far off the to the side for drivers coming in and out of the property. Photo Courtesy of CAST Lighting, LLC

Two tree lights with 35 watt, 60-degree lamps mounted about 20 ft. off grade. Note that in this and many lighting projects trees serve the dual purpose of mounting locations for tree lights and as focal points themselves. This striking and unusual tree was up lit by three MR-16 Bullets with 35 watt, 36 degree lamps. Photo Courtesy of CAST Lighting, LLC, Design by Ryan Hutchinson

Trees can add a natural element to almost any home and should be treated with care when illuminated. Tree lighting can enhance the effects of outdoor lighting when done correctly, however, trees are also living things that must be protected, from the hazards of an improper installation. For example, when climbing a tree to mount the equipment, ladders and ropes may scar a tree, thus leaving it vulnerable to disease and resulting in premature death.

For clients who invest in landscaping, tree lighting can utilize both light and shadows to highlight features such as water and sculpture. Advanced controls allow clients to operate outdoor lighting at the touch of a button to control brightness for outdoor events, or even set automatic timers to increase safety and security.

This daytime image at Riverpark, the retail anchor for Fresno, Calif. highlights the palm trees located in front of the Edwards Cinema. The fixtures are mounted to the tree using a non-invasive mounting strap. Photo Courtesy of B-K Lighting

This image highlights the detail and innovation in lighting palm trees located in Irvine, Calif. The fixtures, Nite Star II(s) with MR16 lamps are mounted to the tree using a custom, stainless steel strap. This installation allows for a clean look, minimal size and no need to ?EUR??,,????'??band?EUR??,,????'?? the tree. Photo Courtesy of B-K Lighting

Direct glare from overhead lights is often problematic. Use of an extra-long shroud provides additional shielding to minimize glare. Photo Courtesy of CAST Lighting, LLC

CAST Tree Mount Stainless Steel Hanger Bolts (STREEH1) provides an air space between bracket and tree to prevent the growth of tree fungus and mold. Photo Courtesy of CAST Lighting, LLC

This tree light mounting canopy was installed approximately 10 years ago on a crab apple tree. The bark had completely engulfed the canopy damaging the tree and providing entry to destructive insects. To prevent such damage, tree lights should be mounted offset from the bark and adjusted yearly to keep an air space between the bark and fixture. Photo Courtesy of CAST Lighting, LLC

Illuminating Info

12: Feet, the maximum recommended distance for placing lights on objects to be highlighted.

8 to 10 : Feet high, the highest point recommended when hanging lights in trees.Source: HGTV

800 to 1,200 : Dollars, the estimated cost of highlighting a couple of trees on a typical suburban lawn. Source: Landscape-America.com