Things You'll Need:
- Measuring tape
- Solar lights
- Screwdriver (possibly)
- Wing nuts (possibly)
- Stakes
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Step 1
Make a diagram of your landscape, and mark the areas you want to illuminate with solar lights. You may choose to shine lights on walkways for safety or to accent an object like a statue, tree or your house. Keep in mind that the area in which the solar lights will be installed should be in full sun (receive at least six hours of sun) to recharge the battery of the solar light.
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Step 2
Choose from one or more types of solar lighting for the proper illumination. Types of solar lights can include spot lights to direct at an architectural feature or a tree; landscape lights to cast soft beams of light at a walkway or to establish a border along planting bed; post/pole lights to cast higher level lights over fountains, seating or walk-ways; or stepping stones with center light for up-lighting.
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Step 3
Purchase the solar lights with a plan to space the landscape lights approximately 3 feet apart on pathways. Walkways can be illuminated from each side by alternating the position of the lights. For example, after setting the first light on the right side of the walkway, move forward about 2 feet and place a light on the left side. Move forward another 2 feet, and place a light on the right side. Continue moving forward in 2-foot increments as you alternate which side of the walkway receives a light. The same technique can be used along a driveway.
Purchase spot lights in groups of three for each object that you want to accentuate. Purchase post/pole lights to set next to a gate, bench, statue or pond, or for larger areas like on each side of the beginning of the driveway or one side of the beginning of the walkway. -
Step 4
Assemble the lights. Some lights use wing nuts to attach the light to the stake that goes into the ground, while others may require a screwdriver to screw the two pieces together.
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Step 5
Switch on each light just before pushing the stake into the ground. Position the solar panel so it is focused toward the sunlight. For adjustable solar lights, position the light toward the object you want to accentuate.
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Step 6
Read the manufacturer's instructions to determine length of time needed to charge the batteries of the solar lights. Once they have charged, relocate lights as necessary at night to best illuminate the desired areas.
