Over the summer months, our gardens are used a lot. The kids are playing on the lawn, and we probably enjoy a few barbecues out on the patio. The dog spends most of his days out there chasing his favourite toy, and the sun beats down to keep our tans topped up. Before the summer is out, you may be starting to notice that the sun is going down long before you are finished entertaining out on your decking or patio area. Now may be the perfect time to think about extending the use of your garden into the autumn with some garden lighting.
The important thing to consider is how you will use your garden in the evenings as the dusk creeps up on us earlier and earlier. In addition to some lighting, you may want a source of heat. A chiminea or fire pit can serve you well in the evenings. They are far cheaper to run than electric patio heating. However, they may be more hazardous if there are children and pets around, so consider fencing them off if you have kids about.
Lighting your garden will help you use your outside spaces more safely. You can use floodlights and spotlights to highlight paths, walls, doors and steps. Some floodlights feature a PIR sensor so they will come on automatically after dark if someone moves within range. You can direct the light onto the lawn or the wall. You may want to light up a drive or garage area. Some people enjoy garden lighting for decorative purposes. You can install all weather fairy lights that run on solar energy so will cost you nothing in ongoing costs. They light up decking and verandahs beautifully.
If you are looking for some garden lighting, you can choose solar or mains powered lighting. LEDs are the bulbs of choice because they are lowest energy cost. Batteries, solar or mains lights can utilise LEDs very effectively, providing for all your lighting needs inside or outside. You can find a range of LEDs from retailers online like LED Planet. There are plenty of very bright LED flood lights to choose from to really light up your outside spaces, letting you enjoy Autumn as much as the Summer.

Source: Derek Adkins – https://www.flickr.com/photos/derekadk/133327499/
However you choose to light your garden, it really does open the area up to use for another few months of the year. Entertaining in the garden is a favourite British pastime and extra lighting helps us enjoy this even more. You may want to take some time to consider which parts of your garden you would like to illuminate more. It is always nice to look out the window in winter and see lovely lighting displays in the garden.
Planting can be highlighted by garden lighting. Play areas can be safe to use even after dark with extra outdoor lighting. For safety and security, garden lighting can be essential. It will deter unwanted visitors, as well as providing a safe path for you and all your family. Enjoy your garden all year round.