How to Put Lights on a Tall Tree Outdoors: Fast-Track Guide to Decorating Your Tree with Lights

Decorating a tall outdoor tree with lights can transform your yard into a magical space for the holidays or special events. The main challenge is reaching the higher branches safely and ensuring an even, professional-looking result. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you illuminate your outdoor tree, whether it’s a towering pine or a stately oak:

1. Planning and Safety First
2. Choose weatherproof, outdoor-rated string lights and plan how many you’ll need (approximately 100 lights per vertical foot). Inspect the tree and your surroundings for hazards. If your tree is exceptionally tall (over 15 feet), consider professional help.
3. Gather the Right Tools
4. You’ll need a sturdy ladder, a light-hanging pole or telescoping paint pole with a hook, extension cords rated for outdoor use, and possibly zip ties or twist ties for securing lights.
5. Start From the Base
6. Plug in your first strand to ensure it works. Beginning at the base, wrap the trunk tightly, spacing each wrap evenly. If reaching high branches, secure the base of the ladder on level ground and have someone steady it while you work.
7. Move Up with Method
8. For taller, hard-to-reach areas, attach your light string’s end to the hook on your pole and lift it over branches. Drape the lights gently rather than pulling tight, which protects both the tree and the lights.
9. Branching Out
10. For a full look, weave lights along the outer branches. It’s best to wind lights up one main branch at a time instead of circling the entire tree, which makes removal easier and ensures better coverage.
11. Power & Safety Check
12. Use outdoor-rated extension cords and keep connections off the ground. Once everything is connected, test your lights at night and adjust as needed for even coverage.

As a designer, I always recommend thinking beyond routine placement—highlighting unique features of the tree, such as sculptural branches or dense clusters of foliage, can make an outdoor space shine even brighter. If you want to digitally plan your project in advance for a more cohesive look, utilizing a home designer tool can let you visualize and experiment with various lighting layouts before installation.

Tips 1:

- Opt for LED lights to minimize energy consumption and heat.

- Use a timer or smart outlet for automatic operation.

- If your tree is especially tall, rope or net lights can cover larger areas quickly.

- Always double-check the weather forecast and avoid decorating in wet, windy conditions.

- Consider theming your lights by color or pattern for added visual impact.

FAQ

Q: How many lights do I need for a tall outdoor tree?

A: Generally, plan for 100 lights per vertical foot of the tree for a basic glow. For fuller coverage or a denser effect, you may need more.

Q: What type of lights are best for outdoor trees?

A: Use weatherproof LED string lights rated for outdoor use. These are durable, energy-efficient, and available in many colors and styles.

Q: Do I need special equipment to hang lights high up in the tree?

A: For very tall trees, a telescoping pole or an extension ladder helps. Safety is paramount—never overreach or climb unsafe branches. For the tallest trees, professional assistance is recommended.

Q: Can I leave outdoor tree lights up year-round?

A: You can, if they are specifically designed for outdoor, permanent installation. Weather can degrade standard lights over time, so check them regularly for wear.

Q: How can I evenly space lights on a large tree?

A: Plan your wraps in sections, working from the trunk out to each main branch. Visualize your pattern first and adjust as you go for symmetry and even glow.