The Victorians called after-six gardens “dream gardens” because of the way moonlight played up their magical, mystical appeal. Even on cloudy or moonless nights, you can enjoy them by using candles, path lights, lanterns, or strings of twinkle lights to help illuminate the pale plant colors. Keep the light soft and diffused to mimic the moon’s subtle glow.

Solar-powered lights are an ideal way to avoid a costly installation and steep electric bills. The three styles shown above contain solar panels that collect sunlight during the day and convert it to electricity (all use rechargeable AA batteries). At dusk, their bright white LED lights begin to cast a warm glow, which can last from 8 to 10 hours.

To Buy (from left): Stainless-steel Essential Path Light, $21, www.uniquecopper.com. Pewter Lantern Solar Light, $40, www.solarlightstore.com. Copper Raleigh Shaded Solar Light, $35, www.solarlightstore.com.