How to Hang String Lights in Backyard without Trees

Let me show you the cutest way to string lights in the backyard without trees.

Recently we took a trip to Florida to visit our son and his family. You know how it goes when mom and dad show up. There is usually a project or two to accomplish.

We aimed to hang string lights over their new outdoor space on this trip and build a fire pit.

Our son, Dillon and his father in law had prepared the area by removing brush and a tree, leveling the area and adding gravel. He also installed a round stock tank pool and deck in the far corner.

They wanted to hang market lights, but there were no trees to hang the lights from.

Mom and dad to the rescue!

Why string lights in your backyard?

There’s something magical about the soft glow of string lights that can instantly transform your backyard into a cozy and inviting space.

Whether hosting a summer barbecue, having a romantic evening under the stars, or simply enjoying some quiet time alone, string lights add a touch of ambiance and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

On my blog WM Design House, I may sometimes use affiliate links, which means a small commission is earned if you purchase via the link. The price will be the same whether you use the affiliate link or go directly to the vendor’s website using a non-affiliate link.

Here are a few reasons why you should consider stringing lights in your backyard:

• Enhance the aesthetics: String lights can effortlessly elevate the overall look of your backyard. They provide a charming and whimsical appeal, making your outdoor space feel like a cozy retreat. Whether you have a sprawling garden or a small patio, string lights can add a touch of elegance and create a cozy, intimate setting.
• Extend outdoor living hours: With the proper lighting, you can extend your outdoor living hours well into the evening. String lights provide just the right amount of illumination, allowing you to enjoy your backyard even after the sun goes down. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply unwinding after a long day, the soft glow of string lights creates a cozy ambiance that encourages relaxation and conversation.
• Versatile and adaptable: String lights come in a wide range of styles and designs, allowing you to choose the ones that best suit your personal taste and the overall aesthetic of your backyard. From classic Edison bulbs to colorful lanterns, there’s a string light option for every preference. Moreover, they can be easily hung and adjusted to fit any outdoor space, whether you have trees or not.

What are the different ways to string lights without trees?

• Hanging lights from a wooden fence: This is a simple and effective way to string lights if you have a solid fence that can support the weight of the lights.
• Hanging lights from a pergola: A pergola is a great way to add shade and privacy to your backyard, and you can also hang string lights.

• Hanging lights from your patio or deck railing: This is another easy way to string lights, and it’s a great way to add some ambiance to your outdoor living space.
• Hanging lights from shrubbery: If you have shrubbery in your backyard, you can use it to hang string lights.
• Hanging lights from posts: If you don’t have any other options, you can create posts like we did.

What kind of string lights can you use?

When it comes to choosing the right string lights for your backyard, there are several options available. Here are a few popular choices to consider:

• Edison bulb string lights: Edison bulbs have a vintage charm that adds a nostalgic and timeless feel to any outdoor setting. These bulbs emit a warm, soft glow that creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Edison bulb string lights are available in various lengths and can be hung across your backyard to create a stunning visual effect.
• LED string lights: LED lights are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and come in a wide array of colors and styles. They are a popular choice for outdoor lighting due to their durability and versatility. LED Christmas lights are available in different lengths and can create a vibrant and festive ambiance in your backyard as well.
• Solar string lights: If you’re looking for an eco-friendly option, solar lights are a great choice. These lights harness energy from the sun during the day and automatically illuminate your backyard at night. They are easy to install, cost-effective, and require minimal maintenance.
• Globe string lights: Globe string lights are a trendy and versatile option that can suit various backyard styles. These lights feature round bulbs emitting soft and diffused light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Globe string lights are available in different sizes and can be hung in straight lines or draped across your outdoor space for a whimsical effect.

​Tips for choosing the right string lights

​Look over the options of lights so you can make the best choice for your outdoor area.

Where to buy string lights 

• Amazon: Amazon has a wide selection of string lights at various prices. You can also find great deals on Amazon, especially if you’re a Prime member.
• Wayfair: This website has a great selection of string lights, including indoor and outdoor options. They also have a good return policy, so you can be sure to find the perfect set of lights for your needs. 
• Home Depot: Home Depot has a wide selection of string lights at various prices. You can also find string lights specifically designed for outdoor use at Home Depot. 
• Lowe’s: Lowe’s is another excellent option for buying string lights. They have a wide selection of indoor and outdoor string lights and competitive prices.

How to string lights in the backyard by hanging them from posts

Here is how we created our wine barrel posts to string outdoor lights in the backyard.

1. Plan out the pattern of your backyard string lights 

The first step is to plan out on paper where your anchor points (the wine barrels with posts) need to be to hold the patio lights.

This is my hubby’s handy work.

Figure out the pattern you want to run your lights. We chose a zigzag pattern. Determine how many feet of lights you will need.

Source the lights in the correct lengths to work with your pattern. Be sure that you plan to end where your power source will be.

Supply List

1. Six half-wine barrels
2. Six wooden posts (4×4)
3. Cup hooks 
4. Outdoor extension cord
5. Commercial-grade string lights
6. Tape Measure 
7. 12 bags of Quikrete
8. Six large bags of gravel
9. Six bags of potting soil
10. Plants of your choice
11. Flex seal
12. Stain for the fence posts
13. Four “L” brackets per barrel (24)
14. Drill/screwdriver
15. Power source
16. Cable ties or Zip ties
17. A level

2. The easiest way to make your own supports for outdoor string lighting

The next step is to make the support for the posts.

• Gather all of your materials.
• Drill drainage holes in the bottom of the wine barrels.
• Using the flex seal, seal the inside of the wine barrel and let this dry overnight.

• Paint or spray flex seal on the bottom 12″ of the fencepost that will be inserted into the wine barrel and let this dry overnight.
• Line up a fence post in the middle of the barrel. Use a level to make sure it is perfectly straight.
• Attach the wooden pole to the barrel using four “L” brackets for each barrel.
• Repeat this process for all six barrels or however many you are making.

3. Secure the posts in place 

• You will want to place the barrels where they will stay so you can add the cement and rock to secure the post and give it weight.

• Pour two bags of dry Quikrete into the barrel around the bottom of the fence post.
• Add the correct amount of water according to the directions on the bag and mix well. 
• Allow to dry. 
• Repeat this process on all of your barrels.

4. Place the rock in your barrels

1. Once the cement is dry, drill a few holes in the side of the barrel above the concrete for drainage.
2. Pour one bag of rock into the barrel on top of the cement. 
3. Stain or paint the posts.

5. Simple steps for attaching the light strands

1. You must screw one of the screw hooks into the top of the light poles.
2. Start running the lights from the first post to the next, putting the cord through the screw hooks. You can add a second hook to the top of the post if needed. 
3. When you reach the end of one strand, you will tie it to the next strand using a square knot to relieve the tension in the cord, then plug the two ends together.
4. Continue stringing your set of string lights until you have finished.

5. Planting your wine barrels

I must admit, this is my favorite part! I love nothing more than digging in the dirt.

• Add a bag of planting soil on top of the rocks.
• Choose the plants that work best for where you live.
• We chose succulents and tropical plants for Florida.
• Plant your plants.

Sit back and relax

Once all of the hard work is complete, it is time to sit back, relax and take in some sunshine.

What are the challenges of stringing lights without trees?

While stringing lights in a backyard without trees may require more creativity, several options are still available.

As with every project, challenges can arise when there are no trees to hang the lights.

• Limited anchor points: Finding suitable anchor points for your string lights can be challenging without trees. The absence of natural structures may require you to explore alternative options. 
• Extension cord management: Without trees to guide your string lights, managing the extension cords can become challenging. To overcome this challenge, you can try concealing the cords with cord covers or hide them behind plants or bushes. Also, use waterproof connectors to help prevent electrical hazards.
• Wind and weather considerations: When stringing lights without trees, consider the impact of wind and weather on the lights’ stability and durability. Make sure you choose string lights designed for outdoor use and use zip ties, light clips, or metal hooks to secure them firmly in place. In extreme weather, you may want to remove the lights to protect them from the elements for the winter season.

How to care for your string lights

• Unplug the lights before cleaning. This will prevent you from getting shocked.
• Use a mild soap and water solution to clean the lights. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
• Rinse the lights thoroughly with water.
• Allow the lights to dry completely before storing them.
• Store the lights in a cool, dry place.
• Inspect the lights regularly for damage. If any bulbs are burned out, replace them immediately.
• If the lights are not used for an extended period, store them in a plastic bag to protect them from dust and moisture.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your outdoor string lights looking their best for years to come.

Stringing lights in your backyard without trees may initially seem like a challenge. Still, you can easily create a magical and inviting outdoor space with creativity and resourcefulness. I hope this DIY post has inspired you to add backyard lights to your home. Whether you have trees, a fence, deck posts or choose to make your own posts like me to support your outdoor lighting, I know you can find a creative way to make your backyard a warm and welcoming place.

Looking for more project ideas? Check out All About DIY and Crafts.

Other posts you will enjoy