Gardens can come to life with light and sound using solar garden decor. Advances in miniature solar panels have paved the way for solar fountains, garden decor, outdoor lighting, and a host of other options that compliment a yard both day and night.

A trademark of many gardens and patios is the solar lantern staked into the ground. While one of the first solar lighting products on the market, lanterns still remain popular and are available in an incredible variety of styles and materials. Many sets now come with a single and movable solar panel, which allow for lanterns placed in shadowy areas to still burn brightly at night.

Solar string lights add nighttime festivity and can be placed almost anywhere as long as the solar cell catches the afternoon sun. Styles range from traditional Christmas lights to decorative Chinese lanterns to rope lights.

Adjustable solar landscape lights provide an elegant touch by highlighting trees, statues and walls. Any section of a garden or property that receives afternoon sun is eligible for lighting after dusk, without the need for wiring.

For the sound of moving water in a garden, a solar fountain is a perfect solution. Gone are the concerns over using excess energy. Locating a fountain by a screen door or open window brings the water sounds inside the house for enjoyment during later hours. There is also a good chance that birds will adopt this water source.

Many are re-discovering garden decorations brought to life by the use of solar power. For example, kissing fairies once hidden after sunset now have their snowy faces illumined by the light of a glowing orb. Likewise, a trio of gnomes hold lit lanterns high to see the trail ahead. The whole yard can indeed be a wonder at night.

To satisfy the backyard over-achievers, there is the solar-powered patio umbrella. Solar panels on top of the umbrella harness the sun’s energy to recharge the batteries by day, and by night LED lights provide light for outdoor activity. The system can be left on for automatic use every night, or lights can be turned off to store energy for special occasions.

Taking a little time to solar-up the garden provides many seasons of enjoyment. One can indulge in light, motion and sound without concern for inflating the utility bill.