A lawn torch is a decorative type of outdoor lighting. Usually set on a five to six foot long pole, the lawn torch is typically a liquid fueled lantern with a cloth wick, most often used to illuminate an outdoor walkway, patio or garden party. Some lawn torches use candles or gas fuel.

The lawn torch can be made of wood, often bamboo, so that it helps create a Polynesian theme. The wooden lawn torch is most often referred to as a tiki torch. Lawn torches also come in metal varieties and are available in many colors, shapes and sizes.

You can find a lawn torch at many garden stores, as well as many department stores, including Target, K Mart and Wal-Mart, and at hardware stores like OSH and Home Depot. Depending on the size, materials and fuel, a lawn torch can range in price from about 20 US dollars (USD) to hundreds of USD for a hand-made metal lawn torch. Keep this variety of lawn torch prices in mind when planning your outdoor decorating budget.

When you decide to buy a lawn torch, there are several things to keep in mind: What type of lawn torch fuel do you want to use? What material do you want your lawn torches to be made of? What size lawn torch works best for your yard? These are important questions for both the design and the layout of your lawn torches, as well as to address possible safety issues.

Lawn torches are often fueled by gas, liquid fuel or candles. Candle powered lawn torches burn at a lower temperature and are more likely to go out on their own if knocked over. All lawn torches pose some fire hazard, but candle lawn torches might be a good option if pets or children will be present. Gas lawn torches provide more heat and light, so they are a good choice if heating an outdoor patio or garden is an added benefit you wish to include. Liquid fuel lawn torches fall into a middle ground between the other two types.

The material of your lawn torch is primarily a question of taste, although it also plays a price in cost and safety. A metal lawn torch is more sturdy than a wooden or plastic model, but it also tends to cost more. Wooden torches offer a more tropical feel, but they are more likely to splinter or split if left outside for long periods of time.

Finally, lawn torches come in a variety of sizes. A tall lawn torch can be planted directly into the soil, or it may come with a stand so that it can be used on concrete. These torches provide light over a wider area, but they are also more likely to be tipped over. Smaller torches can be attached to walls or fences or placed on tables. Not only are these torches less likely to fall over due to jostling or wind, but they can often be moved more easily as well, allowing the light to follow the party across the yard.

A lawn torch can add light, heat and beauty to an outdoor setting. While safety precautions must be taken with any open flame, lawn torches can find a place in many garden, patio or backyard parties, adding just the right mix of ambiance and illumination.