About Solar Powered Lawn & Garden Decorations

Solar Fountains

• Solar water fountains add beauty and serenity to any lawn or garden and eliminate the need for electrical cords throughout the yard. The fountain's solar panels are made of photovoltaic cells, which activate when in contact with sunlight; the triggered panels set the fountain's water pump in motion. Look for fountains that are lightweight, easily transportable during inclement weather, and that have an additional AC adapter for inside use. Solar fountains are only operational in full sunlight.

Solar Bird Feeders and Bird Baths

• Attract birds to your garden with solar powered bird feeders and bird baths. Bird feeders are equipped with light emitting diodes, or LEDs. During the day, sunlight charges the feeder's battery via the solar panels. At night, the charged battery powers the LED lights; birds use the feeders both during the day and at night. Solar bird baths contain fountains. Birds are drawn toward moving water, which makes the bird baths ideal.

Solar Powered Lights

• Solar lights come in many varieties: rope lights, push-in lanterns, deck lights, light rocks, flowers and lit statues. All of these light operate the same way. Sunlight uses solar panels to charge their batteries. The batteries are connected to a light sensor that turns on when the sun falls. The batteries power the LED lights on the products. The products stay lit until the batteries are drained or the sun triggers the light sensor to shut off.

Other Accessories

• Solar-powered bug zappers use solar energy to help keep pests at bay. Solar lawn mole deterrents emit ultrasonic sound up to 670 square yards; these high-pitched sound pulses keep gophers and moles from burrowing in your yard. Solar-powered birdhouses, patio side tables, garden stakes, stepping stones, wind chimes and figurines stay illuminated throughout the night. Some solar-powered accessories come with a color-changing light feature.

Additional Information

• Place your solar-powered decorations in areas of the yard that receive ample sunlight. Operation of decorations may slow or stop during cloudy or overcast days. Since solar-powered decorations will be outside in the elements, choose those that are durable and well made. Though they will be more expensive, high-quality decorations are likely to outlast cheaper ones; look for products with warranties and avoid products that do not offer any.