SunDial
Sundials represent a tradition that goes back over 3,000 years. We can thank Roman engineering for perfecting the basic design. And akin to modern homeowners, the Romans used these in their gardens too! In some areas having a Sundial was one means of honoring the Roman god of the sun (Sol).
This particular garden model retails for about 30 GBP
While modern gardeners might not have the same intentions, with the landscaping bug biting many people, sun dials are one of those items that seem to be experiencing a renaissance. What you may not realize, however, is that three are several categories of sundials, and how well the dial works depends on where you put it. So step one is choosing the final placement for the sundial before you even begin shopping. In particular you want flat ground and a sunny location.
Next, let’s review some of the most prevalent types of sundials on the market
- Pedestal sundials make a great focal point. They’re up off the ground and easily seen and draw people into your landscape
- Vertical attach to a wall – these won’t work unless the wall gets full exposure to the sun.
- Portable – as the name implies you move these throughout the year so they catch the sun correctly
- Horizontal – the most common type of sundial in gardens. The gnomon (the part that casts a shadow) is set at an angle suited to the location for which it was designed. WARNING – that location may not be where you live!
- Equatorial – a good choice for dial, especially one that sets on the ground. The dial is designed in the plane of the equator with hour lines spaced out every 15 degrees.
- Polar: the dial for this is fixed with the earth’s axis (parallel). Hour lines are also parallel to each other.
- Reflecting: not an option for the great outdoors but a rather pretty addition to a sun room these use a mirror to reflect the sun on the ceiling where lines are drawn to reflect the time.
- Armillary: These look a bit like bands that shape themselves into a globe. They’re visually stunning and very well suited to garden settings
This model is currently retailing for about 20 GBP
In terms of materials since most sundials are outside, customarily the main materials are brass, steel or stone. You want durability and something that withstands the elements of your climate. Finally with styles the sky is the limit. The artistry of the sundial has not been lost but it may come at some cost. Elaborate sundials, especially hand crafted ones, may cost well over 1,000.
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