The choice of outdoor landscape lighting and how they are installed will impact the mood and aesthetics of the outdoor space. A popular outdoor lighting technique is moonlighting, which is achieved with outdoor downlights.
This week’s blog post offers some general tips and guidelines for installing outdoor downlights in trees to give an enchanting moonlit atmosphere for any outdoor occasion.
Downlighting and the Moonlight Effect
Downlights are light fixtures where the beam of light is pointed downward. They can be installed in a variety of different areas and used to provide a general wash of light to the ground below. A popular downlighting technique is to use them to create a moonlight effect.
When installed high in trees, downlights give off light similar to moonlight. The light is soft and dappled. It creates a nice contrast of shadows and a serene atmosphere. To mimic natural moonlight as much as possible, opt for a light with the color temperature of 4100K.
Installed properly, downlights will be able to recreate the moonlight and turn any outdoor environment into an enchanted moonlit venue.
General Guidelines for Installing Downlights in Trees
Installation of downlights in trees will largely depend on the size of the tree and its location on the property. The ideal placement for the moonlighting effect is 25-40 feet above the ground. Try out and test different heights to achieve the desired effect. Ensure that the downlight is outdoor rated and can withstand being in such an environment.
Below are general guidelines for installing downlights in trees to achieve a moonlight effect.
Equipment and Tools
- Ladder
- Drill/screwdriver
- Wire cutter
- Zip ties with screw holes
- Outdoor junction box
- Stainless steel hanger bolts and screws
- Outdoor rated low voltage lighting cable
- Outdoor rated downlight
Installation of Downlights in Trees
- Use a ladder to get to the desired height. Be sure there is a firm foundation and that the position of the ladder is secure before climbing.
- Mount junction box with stainless steel standoff screws. Doing so will allow for the tree to grow without growing around the box.
- Secure the fixture onto the junction box cover and then attach the junction box cover onto the junction box.
- Secure wires to the tree by screwingzip ties with screw holes to the tree. Wrap the zip tie around the wire. Do so every four or five feet until you hit the ground. Securing the cable in this way will allow for tree growth without wire getting engulfed.
- Aim and adjust the light fixture as necessary to get the desired effect.
3 Tips for Installing Downlights in Trees
When installing downlights in trees, keep these considerations in mind to ensure a durable and tree-friendly lighting installation.
- Avoid Damage to Trees: Trees are living and growing things. When staples are used to secure the wire to the tree trunk, the tree will eventually grow around it, making it difficult to find and/or remove if necessary. Use stainless steel screws and zip ties to avoid causing harm as stainless steel won’t poison the tree and the zip ties will keep the tree from growing around the wire.
- Consider the Tree’s Growth: Add some wire to the base of the tree. This will provide the lighting installation with enough room to grow with the tree and prevent any tension or breakage of the wire.
- Be Mindful of Light Trespass and Pollution: Minimize light pollution and trespass by choosing outdoor light fixtures that have features like a glare guard. Glare guards will help direct light to where it’s supposed to be and not bother neighbors or surrounding wildlife.
Shop Top-Quality Downlights at Lightch8in
Moonlighting with downlights is a great outdoor landscape lighting technique. Install downlights high in trees to get this natural, moonlit look. This kind of lighting gives an ethereal vibe to any outdoor setting.
Log in or register now for a LightCh8in account now to explore our selection of downlights. In addition to our top quality downlights, our extensive inventory of outdoor landscape lighting products has everything needed for any outdoor landscape lighting project. Our inventory includes other outdoor brass light fixtures such as path lights, up lights, in ground lights and more, direct burial cable, LED bulbs, lighting accessories, and more.