Looking for Durable Solar Path & Tree Lights for Minnesota Winters

Hi all,

I’m looking for recommendations for smart path lights and tree lights that can withstand Minnesota’s harsh winters. I have outdoor power outlets, but mice are a constant issue, so I’d strongly prefer solar-powered options.

I’m not particular about the protocol used to connect to my HA hub (Zigbee, Z-Wave, Wi-Fi, etc.) as long as they’re compatible and reliable with HA. The main priority is that they’re durable, stylish, and perform well in the cold. RGB coloring control is also high on the priority list.

Has anyone here set up something similar? If so, what products or solutions would you recommend? Any advice or ideas would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks!

I wouldn’t go solar/battery powered, especially in cold weather. I am in Canada and use 12V RGB lighting outdoors. Check for RGB controllers you can flash with Tasmota or ESPHome and 12v 4wire lights from AliExpress or Amazon. Install the controllers in your home or any weather protected location and run appropriate wiring to your lights.

WLED is better than esphome for rgb lighting. There are controllers on amazon that come with it pre installed

Never used Tasmota

I would place 120v weather protected plug outside in central or convenient spot. Use a high amp 12v supply. You can locate both in a weather protected box.

LED light can be run to various location and low voltage wiring can be used to bring them back to the weather protected box. Since its low voltage I think burial depth shouldn’t have to be to deep. Just deep enough to prevent mower damage.

You can get basic spotlights or more complex ws2811 style addressable led. The addressable lights should be controlled by wled but basic style lights can just be simple esphome or whatever turning on and off power with relay.

I use both WLED and Tasmota controllers.

If you want effects or addressable light strips then WLED is what you need.

For Solid colors and standard controls, Tasmota or ESPHome will be just fine: