The long winter is almost over, and on the horizon lie warm outdoor evenings. Make the most of your garden this summer with these backyard torch ideas. Find out how to best light up your outdoor space with these backyard torch ideas. Torches will help illuminate the darkest areas of your yard, so you can experience the feeling of a tropical resort without ever leaving home.

What Are Backyard Torches?

The original idea of outdoor torches comes from Polynesian culture and was brought to California in the 1930s. Backyard torches are typically made of bamboo or metal and include long posts that are staked in the ground, a body that contains flammable fluid, and an exposed wick for lighting. Most garden torches need to be staked in soft ground like grass or a container filled with gravel for secure positioning, but many can rest securely on a tabletop or nonflammable patio surface. Fuel types include oil, gas, solar, and gel.

Backyard Torch Ideas

Time to find the perfect backyard torch idea for your home!

1. Traditional Torches

Are you at a loss for traditional backyard torch ideas? Don't be! Use traditional torches to light up your backyard space, adding both a decorative and functional element. Backyard torches should be placed 6 to 8 feet apart from one another and from your house, but their light will extend far beyond that. Install a pair of garden torches near a conversation set to enhance the look of your patio, add ambience to a movie night, or cast light on a casual summer evening. If your patio is bordered by grass, use tall, staked torches to illuminate the space. Bamboo backyard torches are aesthetically pleasing, but their metal counterparts are able to withstand the elements better. and can be left in the yard as more permanent fixtures. (Though it is recommended that you bring even metal torches inside during extremely harsh weather).

2. Romantic Torches

A flickering candle invigorates romance as your pupils enlarge and you lean in deep for conversation. A firm favorite at weddings, candlelit yard torches function by having a lit candle placed within a lantern which then radiates the light outward. Candle torches are easy to manage and require much less attention.These smaller torches work well on patio tables and are especially charming in sets. For an extra loving touch, use a scented candle to create the perfect air for your soiree. Note that this torch requires more effort to light, as you need to access the candlewick.

3. Rustic Torches

Nothing is more rustic than a tabletop torch. Stay away from bright splashes of color and instead embrace the relaxed and natural feel of a muted palette (warm, muted colors like copper add the perfect rustic charm). A tabletop torch is a fantastic conversation piece, but if you want to change things up, try lining your staircase with them. Layer the tabletop torches with lanterns or potted plants to experience a true rustic torch idea.

4. Coastal Torches

Appreciate the warm coastal air from your deck, or at least pretend to, with this backyard torch idea. Coastal torches come in a variety of unique designs that all encompass a breezy, fun experience. Choose from pineapple bracket torches that can securely mount to your deck railing or from bamboo-woven tabletop torches that can be snuffed out with an attached cap. For a truly coastal torch idea, select an oil torch filled with citronella, a natural bug repellent, to keep those pesky mosquitoes at bay while you appreciate the warm summer evenings.

5. Modern Torches

A modern invention, solar-powered yard torches rely on the sun’s energy which is then stored and used at night. These are the safest torches available, because they don’t require a lit flame but rather use yellow LED lights to flicker realistically. Use these torches to line your walkway for a dramatic effect or even group them together with no risk of your grass, clothes, little ones, or pets getting burned. Solar-powered backyard torches usually turn themselves on at night and require no attention like a lit torch would. Solar-fueled backyard torches are the easiest to maintain, as there is no need to refuel them and no big risk of electrocution, as the unit operates only on low voltages. Be aware that if a solar-fueled torch is left outside in the elements, particularly rain, the built-in batteries can fail.

6. Industrial Torches

Most people select their yard torches based on the way they look. If you like the industrial look, select a metal torch. They are stronger and more durable looking than lighter alternatives, therefore a better investment than bamboo, but they are also a bit higher in price. Metal torches need to be cleaned regularly, particularly in coastal locations where salt air would otherwise corrode them at a faster rate.

Backyard Torch Safety

Safety is paramount, especially when using an open flame.

• Don’t use oil- or gas-fueled torches indoors, as the fumes can build up and become toxic.
• Ensure that there is a minimum clearance of 6 feet around all lit torches, including other torches, trees, awnings, and umbrellas, in order to prevent a fire hazard.
• Do not leave your lit torch unattended.
• When using a gas torch, be sure to shut off the valve from the gas tank when you are done using it.
• Keep a chemical-based fire extinguisher on hand at all times in the event of an uncontrolled fire.
• Never move or handle a lit torch. Instead, wait until it has been extinguished and is cooled down before moving, as a searing wick could reignite itself if the fuel is jostled. Similarly, the fuel could spill on your clothing, making it possible for the flame to transfer onto your person.
• Be sure to follow the mounting instructions to avoid injury.
• Don’t fill the fuel reservoir to the max, as overfilling can lead to spillage and in turn pose the risk of setting the whole torch on fire. Wait until the fuel has evaporated before filling it.
• Replace any cracked or damaged components immediately.
• Purchasing larger amounts of oil will save you money in the long term. As long as you store the containers safely out of the sun and away from excessive heat, they can be stored indefinitely.

Of course, your backyard torch choice will come down to your personal preference along with the type of lighting you are looking for. These backyard torch ideas should inspire you and give you an idea of how you want to illuminate your garden.