Keep it light

Keep your plot sparkling long after sunset with these bright ideas

- DAVID DOMONEY

THE right lighting turns a garden into a bright space long after the sun has gone down. Whether you're hosting friends or enjoying quiet moments outside, here's how to make the most of your evenings outdoors.

Choose the best lighting type

Outdoor lighting falls into three main categories: mains-powered, low-voltage, and solar. Mains wired systems are ideal for long-term installations for reliable brightness, such as near garages, driveways, or entrances.

These must be installed by a qualified electrician of course, but they provide the most dependable illumination, particularly in winter.

For DIY-friendly options, low-voltage kits are available in most garden centres.