Uplighting

These accent lights are positioned on or in the ground and pointed up to dramatically illuminate lawn features such as trees, sculpture or gazebos. Uplights that are recessed into the ground are known as well lights. Ones that are mounted above grade are called ground-mounted directional fixtures. Choose directional lights with hoods or shades so that you don`t see distractingly bright [hot spots" when you look out the window. Use uplights to highlight the yard`s most neatly pruned trees and shrubs, giving them a sculptural quality. Position three uplights around a tree or shrub that`s in the middle of the yard. Use one or two lights if the tree or shrub is located along a fence or next to the home. I favor above-grade uplights over well lights. They`re easier to reposition as a tree continues to grow, and they tend to last longer. Position above-grade uplights behind small plants or shrubs, ideally in mulch beds, to keep them out of view. Uplights and other landscape lighting can be wired in series, with each light connected to another light in the vicinity, and ultimately wired into a transformer, which is located either inside or outside your home. There are some pretty good solar-powered adjustable uplights in the shape of rocks. No wiring required.