Uplighting trees is dramatic and can create a focal point for the entire landscape lighting design. By comparison, downlighting is subtle and can create an inviting outdoor living space. Uplighting and downlighting can be used together on the same tree for maximum effect, or they can be used separately on different trees.
Uplighting trees is an art form that the landscape lighting contractor learns with time. Further, no two trees are the same, and how the tree is situated within the landscape design will affect how you illuminate it. Still, there are some basic rules that are helpful to refer to when you are lighting any tree in a landscape.
Small Desciduous
Medium Deciduous
Large Deciduous
Larger Fir
Additional Tips
Downlighting makes a space inviting and delightful for social gatherings. It creates a special experience without the lighting itself being obvious. Downlighting can be installed on structures, such as pergolas or gazebos.
With a tall tree, downlighting can simulate the impression of moonlight and, with a gentle breeze, you will be able to see the shadows of branches and leaves at play on the ground. If you want to wow your customers, try enhancing one of their outdoor living spaces with downlighting.
Identify a large deciduous tree on the property that is a focal point of the landscape or near an outdoor living space. A large, tall tree is best, with branches that start high up, although you can use a smaller tree too.
Place one Small VLO 60° accent light at least four feet above the lowest tier of branches. About 20-25 feet from the ground is ideal. Point the accent light downward, experimenting with the right direction for creating shadows with the branches below.
You can place the light lower or higher, but you want to avoid situations where the light is buried behind too many branches or where the light is visible or blinding from below. Kichler Lighting sells a large variety of cowls that reduce the visibility of the light source.
The Small VLO 60° accent is ideal for downlighting because you have three lumen levels to choose from, allowing you to get the lighting mood just right. You can also experiment with the beam expander lens that is available as an accessory.
For mounting the accent light, use a tree-mount junction box (15609) with standoff screws so the tree has room to grow. The junction box will provide a mounting location for one accent light. Connections and wire nuts go inside the box. Run wire up the non-visible or least-visible side of the trunk and fasten it to the trunk with cable ties and stainless steel screws, making sure that the wire can still move with the tree. Leave some extra wire at the base of the tree to allow for tree growth.
VLO Small Flood
The Small VLO 60° accent is ideal for downlighting because you can adjust lumen levels after installation, allowing you to get the mood just right.
VLO Small Long Cowl
A long cowl for the Small VLO Accent helps to prevent the light source from being visible when looking up from the ground.
Junction Box Mounting Bracket
Tree-mount junction box is attached with standoff screws, allowing the tree to grow. Allow about two inches of growing room, if possible.
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