How to Wrap Christmas Lights Around a Palm Tree
Christmas is a time of cheer and festivity, so it’s no surprise homeowners may want to decorate their outdoor palm tree for the occasion. Wrapping lights about the branches is an ideal way to add some glitz and sparkle to the landscape, but it’s important to choose the right kind of lights for this purpose and wrap them properly for a display that will last.
Selecting the Lights
The main thing to consider when choosing holiday lights for this task is their suitability for outdoor use. Many types of lights are meant to sit in windows, but lights specifically labeled as “outdoor” are designed to withstand the elements and are essential if you want to make the finished display last the season. Look for lights that are long-lasting, water-resistant, and designed for outdoor use.
Wrapping the Strands of Lights
Begin at the tree’s trunk and start wrapping the string of lights around it in a spiral. If the tree has fronds, thin branches or leaves, gently wrap the lights between them. This will help create a soft drape of lights that outline not only the tree’s trunk, but also the shape of its fronds. It’s important to not make the wraps too tight; string the lights across the fronds instead of trying to wind them around the thin branches.
Testing the Display
Before you complete the project, be sure to turn on the string of lights to make sure everything works. If there is an area where the lights don’t work, find the cut in the wire and gently tie it back together with an electrical knot. This knot should be strong yet flexible enough so if the tree moves in the wind, the knot will still hold.
Anchoring the String of Lights
Using twist-ties, secure the strings of lights to the tree’s trunk and the tree’s fronds. You can use either regular plastic twist ties or small zip ties to secure the lights in place. This is an important step because it makes sure that the strings of lights don’t slip off the tree during high winds or other extreme weather conditions.
Safety Considerations
It’s important to stay safe when dealing with electric and avoid contact with water at the same time. Once the lights are plugged into the outdoor power outlet, waterproof the outdoor plugs and sockets with a sealant from a hardware store.
Creating a Balanced Display
When wrapping the lights around the tree’s trunk and fronds, try to stick with the same basic pattern. This helps the display look even and reduces the chances of pockets of darkness or light where the strings of lights don’t quite line up.
Measuring the Length of Lights
If you’re going to buy additional strings of lights for the Christmas display, consider the tree’s height when selecting the appropriate sizes. Buy at least 100 lights per foot of tree height and take into account the way the lights will be wrapped around the trunk and fronds. Measure the length of lights you need, and then buy accordingly.
Restringing the Lights ‘>
If you already have some sets of holiday lights at home, you can use these for the display as long as the wire conditions are good. Carefully inspect the wires and make sure there are no kinks or frays. If there are, buy a set of lights specifically designed as replacements.
Using a Color Scheme
To create a show-stopping display, try using a color scheme. Select two or three shades that work together, such as white and blue, and choose strings of lights in those colors. This will create an eye-catching pattern that’s sure to bring in the holiday cheer.
Choosing a Timer
A timer is essential to keeping the display looking its best and can help reduce energy costs as well. Look for a timer that has multiple settings, so you can have the lights come on and go off when you choose. This way, you can enjoy your outdoor Christmas display every night and save energy.
Hanging Decorations
Once the lights are wrapped around the tree, consider adding decorations for some extra holiday cheer. Hang strings of stars, bells, and snowflakes from the tree’s branches; these decorations look beautiful when the lights come on in the evening.
Maintaining the Lights
Finally, take steps to make sure your light display stays looking its best throughout the holiday season. Carefully check the lights each week to make sure none of them are damaged. When the season ends, carefully unplug and unwind the strings of lights so that they can be stored and used in future holiday displays.
Clean the Fronds
When the festive season comes to an end, be sure to get rid of any remnants of decorations that remain on the palm tree. Remove items stuck to the fronds, as well as any twist-ties or zip ties that were used to secure the lights. To ensure the tree is well-cared for and in tip-top shape, use a soft brush to gently remove any debris.
Tidy Up the Lights
When it’s time to put away the lights, be sure to properly store them in a box or bag. Check the length of lights and condition of wires, and take the time to untangle any knots. This helps to ensure that the lights will last for many holiday seasons to come.
Protection During Storage
In order to make sure that the lights remain in good shape, it’s important to store them in a cool and dry place when they’re not in use. Be sure to keep the lights away from any heat sources or damp areas, as these conditions can damage the wires and cause them to break.
Keep Away from Moisture
When wrapping the lights around a palm tree, it’s paramount to keep the strands away from moisture. If lights come into contact with water, the display can short-circuit, creating a safety risk. If the tree’s fronds or trunk get wet during rain or when watered, it’s best to leave the lights off until they dry. This helps ensure that the lights will continue to work properly.
Speak to a Professional
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure of how to best decorate your palm tree, consider speaking to an expert. A trained professional can give you advice on how to properly wrap the lights around your tree, helping to ensure your display shines bright all season long.
