[header] How to accent trees with outdoor lighting [title] Position an in-ground, well light directly underneath a narrow tree. [step] Small, spindly, or narrow trees will often appear more dramatic when up-lighted. Plant in-ground lights directly next to the tree's trunk, and face them upwards. 
This technique gives small trees, like dwarf palms, an arresting impact despite their diminutive size. [title] Aim a spotlight directly up the trunk of a large, bushy tree.