In much the same way every picture tells a story, each tree in your landscape can also tell a story with the addition of tree lighting. Trees as a species naturally have a great deal of character. Each tree has a distinct personality all its own such as the embracing branching of the oak, to the majestic fullness of the palm tree; no two trees present themselves identically. For example; the character and effect that is interpreted through lighting an ornamental crepe myrtle tree is far different from those conveyed through lighting a palm tree. Choosing specific trees within your landscape for tree lighting can breathe new life into your landscape and give your entire property a distinct feel. If you are just starting out with a new landscape and outdoor lighting installation we can help you decide which trees deliver the most dramatic effects, and which will thrive best in our tropical climate.
In order to bring out the character of the trees you choose to highlight, we make the unique characteristics shine through by using various tree lighting techniques. Up lighting is used to accentuate the trunk and height of a tree. Well lights are often used at the base of a tree to play up the trees width and girth, and down lighting (aka moon lighting) are often used to accentuate the canopy and add drama to the branching of the tree and the shadows cast below the area of the tree. We treat each tree as a separate entity with our tree lighting designs because what works for one tree, may not necessarily work for another. Professional tree lighting is an art we take very seriously. We also pay special attention not to damage or alter your tree leaving it susceptible to fungus and disease when installing your tree lighting fixtures. A healthy tree is a tree that will remain beautiful and bring enjoyment for years to come!
Being in the outdoor lighting business for many years, we have seen many less than professional outdoor lighting designs and installations here in the Clearwater & Tampa Bay area since we have been in business. We have gone in behind many of the other “so-called” outdoor lighting professionals to fix the headaches they have left homeowners to deal with over the years, along with amending the failed attempts of the “do it yourselfer” trying to properly install their own outdoor lighting. The problems we have fixed range from poor design, to fixtures that don’t deliver on their promises and incorrectly installed tree lighting schemes.
- Here is a look at just a few incorrectly designed and executed tree lighting installations:
This cord has actually grown into the tree, which leaves the tree damaged and vulnerable to disease and insects.
Tree lighting with exposed cords is dangerous and unsightly.
Trees are a living entity, and compromising any element of the tree itself during a tree lighting installation can damage the tree leaving it susceptible to insects, disease and fungus, and in some cases can even lead to the death of the tree. This can include cutting into the limbs or trunk of the tree during installation and not leaving enough room for growth of the tree itself when installing the lighting. A good rule of thumb to remember in outdoor lighting is you get what you pay for. Even if you set out on a journey with all good intentions to save a few bucks by hiring a cut-rate installer, in the end it usually ends up costing you more instead of less.
Outdoor lighting for trees can be tricky because of the nature of the object being lit. Professional outdoor lighting designers know the right type of light to use at the best angle to illuminate the tree properly as well as the best installation practices to keep your conifers healthy! Contact us today to learn more.
Robert Van de Putten, Owner
Outdoor Lighting Perspectives of Clearwater
727-785-6000 or email us at clearwater.outdoorlights.com.