Using Net Lights to Cover Bushes and Hedges Effectively

Using Net Lights to Cover Bushes and Hedges Effectively

Lighting up the exterior of your home can transform it from a shadowy silhouette into a twinkling showcase as soon as the sun dips below the horizon. One of my personal favorites when it comes to outdoor lighting has to be net lights. These are particularly handy over the holiday season but believe me, they are equally magical at jazzing up garden parties or simply making your nightly view a bit more sparkly. Today, I’m going to dive deep into the world of net lights—how to pick them, pitfalls to avoid, and some tricks I’ve nailed down after several—sometimes comical—attempts at draping them over my somewhat unruly hedge.

What Are Net Lights?

If you’ve ever battled with string lights, twisting and turning them in a never-ending tangle, then you, my friend, will appreciate the beauty of net lights. Basically, think of them as a fishnet of small LED lights, ready to throw over bushes and hedges. No more wrestling with strings; you just drape these nets, plug them in, and voilà—your greenery is lit! They are typically rectangular or square mesh with evenly spaced lights that offer a uniform appearance. (christmaslightsetc.com)

Choosing Your Net Lights

Selecting the right net lights can mean the difference between an enchanting garden and a tacky light show. Here are a few pointers to consider:

• Brightness and Color: LEDs are the way to go. They’re energy-efficient, durable, and available in a range of colors and intensities. Decide whether you want a warm, cozy glow or a bright, festive color combination.
• Size of the Net: This is crucial. Measure your bushes and hedges before you shop. Nets come in different sizes, and it’s more appealing when they cover the shrub completely without excess hanging off.
• Weatherproof: Since they’ll be outdoors, make sure your lights are weatherproof. Check for labels like 'outdoor use' or specific IP ratings that guarantee resistance to weather conditions.
• Power Source: Most of my experiences lean towards going plug-in where possible; it saves the constant changing of batteries in cold weather. However, solar-powered options can work well too, especially in sunny climates. (weekand.com)

Installation Tricks I've Learned the Hard Way

Who knew that tossing a net over a bush could be an art form? Here’s how you can avoid common pitfalls:

• Start at the Bottom: I learned quickly that starting from the top makes it difficult to adjust the nets without pulling everything down. Anchor the bottom first and then gently lay the rest of the net over the top.
• Connect Multiple Nets: If you have a long hedge, you’ll likely need more than one net. Most net lights come with connectors at the end for this purpose. Make sure to connect them before draping, to avoid having to redo your hard work.
• Use Plastic Clips: To secure the lights and protect your plants, use plastic clips that can easily attach to the mesh and the bush without damaging them.
• Double-Check the Display: Once your nets are up, step back and look at the display from different angles. This ensures even coverage and helps spot any dark patches or tangled sections.

It was one chilly December evening when I decided to deck out my 80-year-old hedge in twinkling lights, confident it would look like something out of a winter wonderland. Only, my first attempt left it looking more like a glow-worm had gone on a rampage—lights were clumped in one area and sparse in another. With some practice and following these tips, I’ve gotten it down to a science.

Maintenance and Care

Net lights, while hardy, also need some TLC to keep them shining brightly each season:

• Storage: Never just wad them up and toss them in a box. Gently fold your net lights and store them in a dry place. I use old cardboard rolls from wrapping paper to wrap the nets around—saves a ton of space and keeps them from tangling.
• Seasonal Checks: Give them a quick check before installing—look for frayed wires or burnt-out bulbs. Replace as necessary.
• Cleaning: Occasionally, they might need a light clean, especially after a dusty summer or muddy rainstorm. Wipe them with a dry cloth; moisture can damage the diodes.

So there you have it—a complete guide to using net lights to enhance your outdoor greenery! Whether you’re aiming for a subtle, elegant look or want to go full-on Griswold family Christmas, net lights are a hassle-free way to achieve an evenly lit and truly enchanting display. Happy decorating! (lightorama.com)