Tree Lighting Ideas: How to Light Evergreens in 2026
Lighting evergreens is one of the most impactful ways to elevate your landscape—but it requires a different approach than lighting deciduous trees. With today’s advancements in LED technology and smart outdoor lighting, you have more control than ever.
There are four key concepts to guide your design:
- Light penetration
- Fixture placement
- Viewpoint
- Color temperature (Kelvin)
Whether you’re working with a Blue Spruce, Eastern Hemlock, or Ponderosa Pine, mastering these fundamentals will help you create depth, drama, and year-round curb appeal.
1. Light Penetration: Think Beyond Traditional Uplighting
Evergreens are dense. Their needle-covered branches block and scatter light, which means traditional uplighting often creates a harsh “hot spot” at the base instead of illuminating the full tree.
Modern approach (2026):
Use wider beam spreads (60–100°) and position fixtures farther away. This allows light to wash through the branches and evenly highlight the structure of the tree.
When to break the rule:
Large, mature trees—like towering pines or cedars—can still benefit from narrow-beam uplighting placed closer to the trunk. Their higher canopies and wider branch spacing allow light to travel upward effectively.
Pro tip: Adjustable beam fixtures (now common in newer systems) let you fine-tune spread without replacing bulbs.
2. Fixture Placement: Design for Growth and Longevity
Tree lighting isn’t a one-and-done installation—your landscape evolves, and your lighting should too.
- Young trees: Place fixtures farther back to accommodate future growth.
- Mature trees: Fixtures can sit closer, depending on branch structure.
If lights are installed too close, they’ll eventually get swallowed by the tree, reducing effectiveness and increasing maintenance.
2026 upgrade options:
- In-grade well lights for a clean, modern look
- Adjustable mounting stakes that allow quick repositioning
- Durable materials like brass or copper for long-term performance
Smart systems now also make it easier to monitor and maintain your setup over time.
3. Viewpoint: Design for How You Experience the Space
Lighting isn’t just about the tree—it’s about the perspective.
Ask yourself:
- Where will you see the tree from most often?
- From inside the home? The street? A patio?
Evergreens are wide and dimensional, so lighting only one side may leave the tree looking flat or incomplete from key viewpoints.
Modern design tip:
Layer your lighting. Use multiple fixtures at different angles to create depth and eliminate shadows—especially for large or focal trees.
4. Color Temperature: Match the Tree’s Natural Tone
Kelvin temperature dramatically affects how your trees look at night.
- 2700K (warm white): Best for deciduous trees and cozy environments
- 3000–3500K (neutral white): Ideal for most evergreens
- 4000K (cool white): Great for blue-toned trees like Blue Spruce
2026 trend: Tunable white lighting systems. These allow you to adjust color temperature seasonally or for special occasions—warmer in fall, cooler in winter, or brighter for entertaining.
Final Thoughts
Lighting evergreens well is about balance—distance, angle, color, and perspective all work together to bring out the tree’s natural beauty.
With today’s technology, you’re no longer limited to static lighting. Smart controls, adjustable optics, and high-efficiency LEDs give you the flexibility to refine your landscape over time and keep it looking its best year-round.
Ready to Upgrade Your Landscape Lighting?
If you’re looking to transform your outdoor space with professional tree lighting, we can help.
Call us at (801) 440-7647 to schedule a free consultation, or fill out our contact form to get started.
