How to Select a Solar-Powered Garden Gnome

Garden paths and creek bridges are delightful areas to spend summer evenings with family or friends. Lining these areas with solar-powered lights allows guests to stroll safely through an unfamiliar garden at night. Gnomes are night time creatures and an excellent choice for garden lights.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Choose solar-powered garden gnomes as a decorative item in the garden or to line pathways. These practical garden gnomes are more expensive than basic solar-powered lights, but add charm and a focal point to the garden.

2. Buy solar-powered lights with an on/off switch that allows conservation of battery life.

3. Look for solar-powered garden lights that run at least 4 hours on a battery charge. Good batteries last for 6 hours or longer.

4. Select solar-powered garden gnomes made of molded resin, glass, plastic or terra-cotta.

5. Opt for solar-powered garden lights when looking for a low maintenance lighting option. Solar lights have no cords, acid batteries or electric power lines required for installation and operation.

6. Place a solar-powered light in full sun areas of the garden to get a full battery charge and longer operation hours in the evening hours.

7. Choose a garden gnome with the solar-powered light in a glowing toadstool, acorn lantern or illuminated crystal ball.

8. Buy solar-powered garden gnomes as fairies, classic gnomes and playful cherubs for various areas of the garden. Add a solar-powered gnome cottage or mushroom house for the garden wee folk.

9. Place solar-powered lights 8 to 12 inches from the path edge so walkers don't kick the delicate lights.

Tips & Warnings

• Check the type of nickel alloy battery used in the light so the right replacement is on hand.
• Protect the solar-powered garden gnome from freezing temperatures by storing indoors during winter months.
• Follow the accompanying maintenance instructions to assure a long life for the solar-powered light.
• Avoid setting up solar-powered lights in semi-shade or wet areas of the garden.

Resources

• Buy solar garden gnomes at Gardener's Supply Company
• Buy gnomes and other enchanting garden accessories at mysticaldragon.com