Tag Archives: Outdoor

10 Best Outdoor Kitchen Appliances For Seamless Cooking On Your Camping Trips This Spring

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Spring is here, and it really is the perfect time for camping! And, I truly love camping trips. Relaxing amid nature, in a sweet bubble of my own, away from the hectic city life – sounds like heaven to me! However, one thing that always worries me before any camping getaway is the meals! I’m a food lover through and through, and having warm and freshly prepared (and tasty) meals at all times is a must for me. A good meal isn’t always guaranteed though when you’re getting down and dirty in the outdoors, but we can always try our best! Hence, we’ve curated a collection of portable and functional kitchen appliances that will help you prepare delicious meals even when you’re surrounded by nothing but the wilderness

1. All-in-One Grill

Dubbed the All-in-One Grill, this is the perfect grill for your outdoor camping adventures! It is designed to facilitate all kinds of cooking – from frying to smoking, stewing, grilling, or simply keeping some wine warm. It doesn’t occupy too much space and does an excellent job in a tiny amount of space, and different environments.

Click Here to Buy Now: $449

Why is it noteworthy?

This innovative grill is designed by a small family-owned factory, and it smartly maximizes the limited amount of space available. It features a wooden base, which protects the table or surface from the grill’s hot bottom, while also doubling up as a lid when the griller needs to be kept away.

What we like

  • Facilitates seven different ways of cooking
  • Simplifies the cumbersome task of outdoor cooking

What we dislike

  • The simple portable design may not be preferred by hardcore grillers

2. 8-in-1 EDC Scissors

This 8-in-1 EDC Scissor is the ultimate sidekick for your indoor and outdoor culinary adventures! You can simply pull the scissors apart to form a set of knives. The scissors also feature a nutcracker, can opener, built-in bottle opener, and fire starter, forming a handy and nifty package.

Click Here to Buy Now: $59

Why is it noteworthy?

The scissor is an innovative design amped with two knives, as well as a large variety of multitools for whenever you need them. Once you put the scissors back together, they can cut through cured meats, and the serrated mid-section can be utilized to crack walnuts as well!

What we like

  • Excellent for both the kitchen and outdoor cooking sessions
  • Smart practical tool equipped with loads of cool features

What we dislike

  • It isn’t the kind of scissor you can simply carry in your pocket

3. Ember

Dubbed Ember, this conceptual portable oven has a monolithic design with a sleek build that can be utilized on the stove’s flame without any electricity. It is a space-saving kitchen appliance that isn’t only a great fit for your kitchen but for your camping adventures as well.

Why is it noteworthy?

It is a clever solution designed to facilitate baking in smaller kitchens or outdoor spaces. It can bake healthy food in small spaces faster as compared to conventional methods. It is quite easy to use as well, simply place it on the stove, fill the container, and close the glass lid!

What we like

  • Well-suited for outdoor spaces and small kitchens

What we dislike

  • It is a conceptual design, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product

4. Compact Modular Grill Plate

Meet the Compact Modular Grill Plate! It is designed to prepare perfectly cooked steak or food for you with the help of heat conduction, place thickness, and heat uniformity. The looks of the product can be deceiving, but once you literally get inside the plate you can understand how the real magic of it works.

Click Here to Buy Now: $89

Why is it noteworthy?

It uses a three-layer architecture with two steel layers covering aluminum. The lower Stainless Steel SUS439 allows the grill to be used on an induction stove, while the upper Stainless Steel SUS304 has some excellent corrosion resistance, forming a portable appliance that is durable and handy.

What we like

  • Lightweight and compact design to save up on space and efforts
  • Crafted by experts from Tsubamesanjo in Japan

What we dislike

  • Can’t accommodate large portions

5. Sustainable Cutlery Set

Dubbed the Sustainable Cutlery Set, this guilt-free and sustainable cutlery set is made using Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymers or GFRP. The cutlery is light and durable and presented in recyclable and reusable packaging. It can last a long time, so you don’t need to worry about the longevity of the set.

Click Here to Buy Now: $49.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The cutlery set has plenty of mechanical strength, so the fork and knife won’t break if you’re slicing through a well-done steak. The different elements of the set can be split in half, which makes them portable and easy to carry around. The various parents can be screwed and unscrewed.

What we like

  • Sustainable but also designed to last
  • Portable design that you can carry around with you for ease

What we dislike

  • The handles are delicate and may be too thin for large hands, making them difficult to use

6. Playful Palm Grater

This charming little product is called the Playful Palm Grater, and it can add some functional fun to your kitchen space, or even when you’re out camping! The tiny product will grate fresh garnishes directly onto your food on the dining table, adding a refined touch to your meals even when you’re not home.

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

The playful product curls up like a piece of paper and is made from a single piece of aluminum alloy plate. It is available in a bunch of fun colors, so you can pick the one that perfectly complements your taste.

What we like

  • Unique and clean form with a firm grip
  • Transforms grating into a smooth and fun activity

What we dislike

  • Although the grater’s size is fun and small, it limits it from grating larger amounts of food

7. Portable Fire Pit Stand

Meet the Portable Fire Pit Stand – a unique fire pit stand with a puzzle-like assembly, that makes it truly stand apart from traditional fire pits. This portable fire pit doesn’t only provide warmth, but it also functions as a cooking station on your camping trips or winter gatherings in your backyard.

Click Here to Buy Now: $119

Why is it noteworthy?

The Portable Fire Pit Stand is made from special sheet metal technology, and it prevents any kind of warping or distortion from heat, which offers safety and ensures longevity. The stand’s compact size and easy assembly style make it great for outdoor settings, including camping trips.

What we like

  • Features a unique puzzle-like design that facilitates quick setup
  • Industrial look with sleek aesthetics

What we dislike

  • Not the best for cooking up meals for large groups as it has a compact size

8. Shelf

Named Shelf, this grill features the design language of DHL and was created by PDF Haus. It features a simple box silhouette with a freewheeling attitude, and perfectly captures the color scheme, finishes, and materials as seen in DHL’s brand aesthetic and vehicles. It even features DHL decals and tags!

Why is it noteworthy?

The Shelf is shaped like a slim briefcase, and you can easily carry it with you. It features two metal clasps that can be opened and slid out to showcase the Shelf’s grill and supplementary table space. It includes two retractable shelves which create more space to place spices, utensils, and tools.

What we like

  • Features a unique briefcase form
  • Innovative DHL-inspired aesthetics

What we dislike

  • Propane gas containers are inserted into the grill’s underside giving it more weight

9. Campo

Named Campo, this outdoor kitchen appliance is inspired by the curves of an Apple Watch and a portable EV battery. The appliance is made using nature-friendly colors. It features a helmet-like design, with a visor that can be rolled up with a handle. It has a magnetically fastened plate, on which you can keep the item you want to cook, and set a timer.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Campo microwave oven is equipped with a rechargeable battery that facilitates heating and cooking without requiring continuous juice from your car. You can carry the microwave like a helmet, and place it on any flat surface to begin easy prep of your meal.

What we like

  • Portable and easy-to-carry design
  • Amped by a rechargeable battery

What we dislike

  • It’s still a concept, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product

10. Fire Safe

Called the Fire Safe, this envelop-sized, portable fire and cooking companion is designed by Wolf & Grizzly. It lets you start up your own warm and cozy fire wherever it is safe to do so. The Fire Safe is great for fostering communal fires and facilitating cooking experiences with family and friends.

Why is it noteworthy?

It builds campfire and cooking experiences which reduce the environmental footprints created by most typical campfires. It features a hinged collapsible design that has a large fuel capacity.

What we like

  • Lightweight and slim design
  • Portable design that is easy to carry around

What we dislike

  • Made from stainless steel, which enables a patina to form over time, which may not be liked by all users

The post 10 Best Outdoor Kitchen Appliances For Seamless Cooking On Your Camping Trips This Spring first appeared on Yanko Design.

Husqvarna launches new Autonomous Lawnmower With Built-in GPS

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For professional landscapers and property managers of sprawling green spaces, achieving that perfectly manicured lawn can be a constant battle. Traditionally, robotic mowers have relied on boundary wires to define their work area. This not only requires time-consuming installation but also presents a challenge during maintenance or landscaping projects. Husqvarna, a name synonymous with outdoor power equipment (and also motorcycles), is shaking things up with the Automower 520 EPOS, a revolutionary robot mower that ditches the wires in favor of a sophisticated GPS navigation system.

Designer: Husqvarna

Designed for tackling large areas of up to 5,000 square meters (roughly 1.2 acres), the Automower 520 EPOS boasts an impressive ability to handle slopes as steep as 45 degrees. This makes it ideal for managing expansive properties like parks, sports complexes, or corporate campuses. The key innovation lies in the EPOS system, which does away with the need for physical boundary wires. Instead, it utilizes a network of satellites and a reference station to create a virtual work zone. This not only saves time on installation but also eliminates the risk of accidentally damaging wires during other lawn maintenance tasks.

The mower seamlessly integrates with Husqvarna Fleet Services, a comprehensive app-based management system. Imagine the convenience of remotely controlling and monitoring your entire fleet of mowers from your smartphone or computer. The app allows for functionalities like simultaneous operation of multiple mowers, real-time location tracking, and even adjusting mowing schedules based on weather conditions. An alarm system deters potential theft, while automatic weather timers ensure the mower adapts its schedule to avoid rain or excessive heat, maximizing its efficiency and protecting the health of the lawn.

The mower employs a systematic mowing pattern, ensuring a consistently well-maintained lawn. The tiny grass clippings it leaves behind are finely mulched and returned to the soil, acting as a natural fertilizer. This eco-friendly approach not only eliminates the need for bagging and disposal of clippings but also contributes to a healthier, greener landscape. Furthermore, the mower boasts features like over-the-air software updates and a patented cutting height adjustment system, ensuring it stays at the forefront of lawn care technology.

While the initial cost of the Automower 520 EPOS might seem like a significant investment, the long-term benefits for professional lawn care providers are undeniable. Reduced labor costs due to automation, improved efficiency through remote management, and a consistently pristine lawn all contribute to a significant return on investment. The Automower 520 EPOS represents a glimpse into the future of lawn maintenance, a future where robotic mowers operate with precision and autonomy, guided by the power of GPS technology. This innovative solution not only frees up valuable time and resources but also paves the way for a more sustainable approach to maintaining sprawling green spaces.

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Spring into Savings with Beatbot AquaSense Advanced Robotic Pool Cleaning Tech

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Spring is the perfect time to refresh your home and swimming pool. As the days become longer and warmer, it’s time to clear away winter debris and prepare for spring’s clear waters. Cleaning your pool in the spring readies it for the upcoming swim season, guaranteeing a clean, hygienic, and enjoyable experience. Among all the available products, the Beatbot AquaSense series stands out as a remarkable robotic pool cleaner, showcasing innovative advancement beyond any other product I’ve seen. From March 20th to April 10th, you can enjoy an exceptional Spring Cleaning offer. Get $200 OFF on the AquaSense and AquaSense Pro at Beatbot’s Official Website.

Designer: Beatbot

Click Here to Buy Now: $1,099 $1,299 ($200 off!). Hurry, deal ends soon!

If you’ve already read my review of the Beatbot AquaSense Pro, please continue reading this article for new information and comparisons with the more budget-friendly second AquaSense model. Essentially, the AquaSense series of robotic pool cleaners revolutionizes the standards of pool cleaning. Its innovative technology ensures unmatched cleanliness by combining elegance and intelligence. Both the AquaSense and AquaSense Pro models offer a perfect blend of sophistication, power, and smart technology aimed at effortlessly keeping your pool in pristine condition. This is the future of pool maintenance, accessible to you now.

Groundbreaking Cleaning Power

The Beatbot AquaSense series delivers unmatched performance through its brushless main-pump motor. This impressive engineering feat generates an astounding 5500 GPH (Gallons Per Hour) suction. The device’s cleaning performance is further amplified by 2×2 ultra-long independent roller brushes. These brushes operate in sync, increasing scrubbing power, and while turning, the two left, and two right brushes operate independently for improved control, thereby achieving greater cleaning coverage. This extends the pool cleaner’s reach and efficiency, ensuring a thorough cleaning that leaves your pool immaculate. With a powerful cleaning system and 150µm fine filtration, even the smallest particles are captured, resulting in visibly cleaner water.

Consider everything that can and can’t be seen by the naked eye, including leaves, bugs, and dirt, which may be at the bottom, floating in, or on the swimming pool. In addition, both the sides below and above the waterline are thoroughly cleaned.

The Aquasense Pro received the Yanko Design’s Editors Choice award for two remarkable features: its ability to navigate steps and clean the swimming pool’s surface. While built-in pool cleaning systems effectively remove leaves and debris, they often leave smaller particles floating on the surface. Traditionally, this has required pool owners to skim the surface with a net manually. The Aquasense Pro eliminates this task.

While the AquaSense Pro is impressive, the standard AquaSense model should not be overlooked, especially for those on a budget or who do not require the extra features of the Pro model. Despite lacking some features of the Pro version, the AquaSense robotic pool cleaner still boasts advanced capabilities that stand out in the industry. Many competitors are corded and offer less than 5000 GPH suction, and they lack intelligent features such as smart return and easy retrieval. However, the AquaSense model excels in these areas, exceeding my expectations. For these reasons, this model has also been awarded Yanko Design’s Editors Choice.

Intelligent Path Optimization

What truly distinguishes the AquaSense series is its powerful quad-core 1.8GHz processor. This processor drives the device’s intelligent features, such as the groundbreaking Intelligent Path Optimization. This feature, which possesses computing capabilities 450 times larger than similar flagship products, enables AquaSense to navigate your pool with remarkable efficiency and accuracy. During my experience with this device, I’ve seen it learn, adapt, and optimize its cleaning path for maximum coverage and efficiency.

If you opt for the AquaSense Pro, this example shows how it has learned to “climb” multiple steps, clean surfaces, and repeatedly clean walls both below and above the waterline. This task requires substantial computing power, strength, and agility to execute. Every component works in sync, from the four brushes and dual propellers to the water suction and rails. This balance of power and finesse enables the cleaner to perform tasks that competing brands in the same class cannot match. On the other hand, the AquaSense model has also inherited similar intelligent processing with 15 sensors, which includes SonicSense Ultrasonic AI Pool Mapping and Obstacle Avoidance and CleverNav Smart Navigation System, enabling it to clean the pool floor in an S-shaped pattern and the walls and waterline in an N-shaped pattern.

This intelligent navigation system includes industry-leading features such as Auto-Return and Waterline Parking. These features ensure that AquaSense smartly returns to its starting point and docks at the waterline once the cleaning cycle is complete or the battery is low. This makes it easy to retrieve without any hassle. The best part about these features is that there’s no longer a need to retrieve the pool cleaner from the bottom using a pool stick.

Unmatched User Experience

The Beatbot App improves the user experience with the AquaSense series. This app allows effortless control of the device from your smartphone. Whether you’re choosing cleaning modes or accessing cleaning records, the app makes managing your pool’s cleaning functionalities just a few taps away. Additionally, the device supports Over-The-Air (OTA) updates, continually enhancing its functionality, much like the smartphone you use daily.

I take great pleasure in monitoring the progress of the AquaSense Pro, particularly from a few days ago when I used a custom cleaning mode. The floor, wall, and surface were cleaned twice! The total run time on a single charge was 331 minutes (5.5 hours), filtering 13,728 gallons of water. The surface cleaning took the longest at 177 minutes, followed by the floor at 81 minutes and the walls at 73 minutes. As for the AquaSense model, it has a solid battery life, lasting up to 3.5 hours and taking approximately 3 hours to charge. All this information and more can be easily accessed through the app.

Spring Cleaning Special Offer

As we embrace the spirit of renewal that comes with spring, there’s no better time to enhance your pool cleaning experience with the Beatbot AquaSense Pro. From March 20th to April 10th, take advantage of an exceptional Spring Cleaning offer with $200 OFF both the AquaSense and AquaSense Pro on Beatbot’s Official Website. Remember that this isn’t just an investment in a robotic pool cleaner; it’s an investment in peace of mind, the luxury of time saved, and the assurance of having the most advanced pool cleaning technology at your service.

Click Here to Buy Now: $1,099 $1,299 ($200 off!). Hurry, deal ends soon!

The post Spring into Savings with Beatbot AquaSense Advanced Robotic Pool Cleaning Tech first appeared on Yanko Design.

Light, comfortable, and overly versatile Dropy teardrop trailer has compact foldout kitchen

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Teardrop trailers have, arguably, taken the camping world by storm. The industry is flooded with small, mini, and micro trailers with their customization options to fit user desires and requirements. Offering extreme overlanding comfort with a sleeping area and functional galley kitchen in the rear, these lightweight trailers in addition to being exciting and fun are also comfortable and glamorous.

Following the lead arrives Dropy, a light, compact, comfortable and overly versatile teardrop trailer designed and developed by Barcelona-based Drop Campers. While on the exterior, the squared-off Dropy is just an ordinary trailer, it reveals some exciting new ways to keep it simple with an interesting layout.

Designer: Drop Campers

The variation of the Dropy lies in its kitchen, which basically comprises a fold-down traction board at the back alongside a small slide-out to hold a petite stove. This interesting convertible makeover, which is starkly compact in comparison with the rear galley kitchen, leaves more room in the sleeping quarter for the inhabitants to explore. The folding table can double as a work desk or a casual table when you want to just sit and relax outside of your camping trailer.

Always ready for what you throw at it, the Dropy has been designed to travel on tar, gravel, and unbeaten trails without much fuss courtesy of its welded galvanized steel chassis comprising a torsion bar axle and choice of leaf spring or independent suspension. Within its aluminum composite, birch body, black Line-X cabin, insulated with Kaiflex closed-cell rubber, you can experience an unforgettable living space featuring a double mattress, overhead cabinets, and some drawers and shelves for storage.

The interior of the Dropy trailer is well-lit with a skylight, and boat side doors with sliding windows. The camper is more of a shell otherwise starting at €21,500 (approximately $23,500). It is the la carte options that scale up the price and the utility of the Dropy. To that accord, Drop Campers offers a range of options depending on the Crossover (all-road), SUV (all-terrain), or Offroad variant you go for. This includes the choice of 110W rooftop solar panels, lithium battery, hot air heating system, outdoor water tank with road shower, refrigerator, Primus 2-burner gas stove, indoor hanging hammock for kids or pets, bike rack for 2 bicycles, ski and surfboard carriers, side-mounted dresser and outdoor bathroom/toilet, and more.

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This Tiny Palm-Sized Drone is the Future of Battlefield Surveillance and Military Recon

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Quite reminiscent of the Hunter-seeker drones from the DUNE movie series, the Black Hornet 4 is shaping up to be an incredibly small yet exceptionally handy recon drone, capable of flying into areas unnoticed, and helping perform important surveillance required during military strategy and battle planning. This miniature marvel, weighing a mere 70 grams, packs a powerful array of features. Equipped with a 12-megapixel camera, superior low-light performance, and a high-resolution thermal imager, the Black Hornet 4 empowers soldiers with exceptional situational awareness on the ground.

Designer: Teledyne FLIR

However, its true potential lies in its ability to excel in challenging environments. Boasting a flight time exceeding 30 minutes, a range surpassing 2 kilometers, and the capability to withstand strong winds, the Black Hornet 4 navigates even the most demanding situations with ease. Additionally, its low visual and audible signature makes it ideal for covert operations, allowing for discreet deployment and data collection. The system’s ability to function in GPS-denied environments adds another layer of versatility, ensuring reliable operation regardless of external factors.

This innovative technology has already seen significant global adoption, with over 20,000 units deployed. The recent contract awarded by the U.S. Army for additional systems further underscores the Black Hornet 4’s impact. This tiny tech marvel represents a significant leap forward in the realm of personal reconnaissance, offering soldiers unprecedented capabilities and operational flexibility.

Beyond its military applications, the potential of the Black Hornet 4 extends to various civilian sectors. Search and rescue operations in disaster zones, environmental monitoring in remote areas, and even industrial inspections in hazardous environments could all benefit from the capabilities of this miniature marvel. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see the Black Hornet 4, or similar systems, playing an increasingly crucial role in diverse fields, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of miniaturized aerial technology.

The post This Tiny Palm-Sized Drone is the Future of Battlefield Surveillance and Military Recon first appeared on Yanko Design.

How To Design Your Backyard Garden From Scratch

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Starting a garden can be a fun as well as a meditative experience where you care for, nurture, and enjoy watching your plants grow and produce fruits or vegetables. Since starting a garden from scratch can feel overwhelming, let’s simplify it into manageable steps to maximize your space and enjoyment. While gardening fundamentals vary based on location, season, microclimate, soil, and plant preferences, here are some general steps to begin your first garden from scratch.

Image courtesy of: kryzhov

1. Consider Your Planting Options

Image courtesy of: pokypkimoi

Before starting your journey of creating and nurturing your private garden, it’s important to understand whether you want a vegetable garden, a herb garden, or a flower garden. Whatever you decide, it’s good to grow vegetables your family enjoys, and for flowers, choose between annuals for long blooms or perennials for longevity. It’s always wise to start small and grow gradually until you feel comfortable.

2. Choose a Sunny Spot

Image courtesy of: uladzimirz

Observe sunlight patterns in your garden to determine plant needs for full sun, part shade, or full shade, and consult online resources for suitable species for your unique conditions. Most vegetables and flowering plants require 6-8 hours of full sun daily, so assess your yard’s sun exposure to identify suitable spots. Even if your yard is mostly shady, certain plants like impatiens and begonias can thrive. Select a flat area for your garden to avoid dealing with slopes, which can be more challenging and costly. Ensure convenient access to a water source for your garden’s requirements and consider the accessibility of your garden space for watering, harvesting, and tending to your plants.

3. Gardening Tools

Image courtesy of: duallogic

Essential gardening tools are important to ensure the successful cultivation of plants. Pruning scissors are important for maintaining plant health, enabling precise trimming and removing dead parts. For soil preparation and planting, a spade, trowel, and garden fork are essential, allowing for efficient digging and root clearance. Watering equipment includes a garden hose for larger areas and a watering can for delicate plants, ensuring optimal hydration without damaging young growth. Combatting weeds necessitates tools like a forked trowel and gardening knife, enabling efficient removal to maintain the vitality of the garden.

Image courtesy of: BlackBoxGuild

Start by clearing the area of weeds and sod, which refers to a layer of grass and the soil beneath it that is held together by roots. For quick results, cut out the sod using a spade.

4. Test the Soil

Image courtesy of: jchizhe

Consider a soil test for insights into your soil’s composition, including nutrient deficiencies and recommended remedies, or opt for DIY kits offering basic insights. Based on your soil test results, amend your soil by adding necessary nutrients or adjusting pH levels to create the optimal growing conditions for your plants. Add 2-3 inches of compost to new beds during preparation or apply it to existing beds, allowing earthworms to incorporate it over time, improving soil structure and nutrient availability for plants.

5. Prepare the Planting Bed

Image courtesy of: Simol1407

Loosening the soil in new beds before planting aids root growth and nutrient absorption. Opt for manual digging, especially for smaller beds. Work the soil when moist but not overly wet or dry, about 6-8 inches deep, mixing in organic matter. Note that healthy soil contains numerous bacteria, fungi, and microbes, allowing plant roots to penetrate easily due to their suitable texture and structure, which is determined by the proportions of clay, sand, and silt in the soil.

Another way to garden is called no-till gardening. First, clear away any debris and grass. Then, spread a thick layer of compost over the area, at least four inches deep. If you’re dealing with tough weeds, you can try sheet mulching. This involves using cardboard to compost the weeds while keeping the soil intact. It’s also a good idea to keep your garden beds no wider than 4 feet so you can easily reach the center.

6. Choose Your Plants

Image courtesy of: RossHelen

Opt for plants suited to your climate, soil, and sunlight conditions. You can also browse the internet for plant options. Here are a few beginner-friendly choices:

• Annuals: Marigolds, Petunias, Snapdragons, Impatiens, Zinnias, Geraniums
• Perennials: Black-eyed Susans, Daylilies, Hostas, 0Coneflowers (Echinacea), Sedum
• Vegetables: tomatoes, Peppers, Lettuce, Carrots, Cucumbers, Squash (zucchini, yellow squash)

7. Plant with Care

Image courtesy of: RossHelen

Most seed packets and transplant containers come with basic planting instructions. Once you’ve done the groundwork, begin planting. For seeds, follow guidelines such as planting them three times as deep as their diameter or as specified. Be cautious with seeds needing light for germination, ensuring they’re not buried too deeply. Transplants are usually planted at the same depth as in the pot, with exceptions like tomatoes. Wait until the danger of frost has passed to heat-loving plants. Young plants may require protection or hardening off before being planted outdoors.

When planting seeds, sow them at the specified depth on the packet, firming the soil gently, and water when the soil surface dries out. Some plants prefer cooler temperatures and can be planted in autumn or late winter, while others thrive in warmth and should wait until after the risk of frost has passed. Mid-spring and mid-autumn are optimal for planting perennials. Annuals can be directly sown in the garden or started indoors a few weeks before the last frost date. Alternatively, purchase young plants for transplanting into prepared beds and ensure proper watering after planting.

8. Start Watering

Image courtesy of: wirestock

Water seedlings daily to prevent them from drying out, adjusting frequency as they grow. Newly transplanted seedlings need watering every other day until their roots are established. Afterward, water once a week, considering soil type, humidity, and weather conditions. Clay soil retains moisture longer than sandy soil. Test soil moisture by feeling 3-4 inches below the surface; if dry, water slowly and deeply. Water in the early morning to minimize evaporation.

9. Add Mulch

Image courtesy of: larisikstefania

Apply a couple of inches of mulch to the soil for moisture retention and weed suppression, choosing from materials like shredded bark, straw, or river rock. Organic mulches, such as bark or compost, enrich the soil as they break down. Avoid covering seeds you want to grow; opt for quickly decomposing mulches for vegetable gardens, and longer-lasting options like bark chips for perennials. Mulch acts as a protective cover, aiding in moisture retention, soil cooling, and weed suppression, while enhancing the garden bed’s appearance. As organic mulches decompose, they enrich soil fertility. Covering the soil with rocks and organic matter inhibits weed germination and maintains soil moisture and warmth while providing nourishment for beneficial soil organisms. Match the right mulch with each crop: wood chips for fruit trees and shrubs, and lighter options like straw or leaves for delicate vegetables.

10. Maintain the Garden

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Regular maintenance involves watering plants before they wilt, removing weeds before they seed, and clearing away dead or diseased vegetation. Support tall plants with trellises or stakes, and harvest vegetables promptly when ripe. Garden maintenance follows a seasonal rhythm; for instance, in spring, prevent weeds, while summer requires vigilant watering, and fall is meant for pruning and cleanup. Throughout the growing season, attend to your plants’ needs: remove yellow or deformed leaves, stake plants for support, and prune dense growth to improve sunlight and air circulation.

Happy Gardening!

The post How To Design Your Backyard Garden From Scratch first appeared on Yanko Design.

YouTuber Turns Tesla’s Cybertruck Into A Full-Blown Snowmobile With Tracks Instead Of Wheels

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We’ve seen the Cybertruck handle off-road tasks with the ease of a machete cutting through soft butter… Whether it’s asphalt, gravel, sand-dunes, or even a shallow riverbed, it seems like Cybertruck drivers have managed to push the electric pickup truck to its limits to have it conquer those surfaces, but what about snow? YouTuber Heavy D Sparks decided to test the truck’s off-road abilities by having it run on one of the trickiest surfaces for any vehicle, snow-capped hills. Except, he wasn’t planning on just taking the Cybertruck as is, no… Heavy D Sparks decided to build the world’s first (and only) Cybertrack – a truck/snowmobile hybrid with treads instead of wheels. Borrowing a Cybertruck from fellow YouTuber Supercar Ron, Heavy D Sparks (also known as Heavy Diesel) decided to give the truck its biggest hardware upgrade ever.

Designer: Heavy D Sparks

The aim was to outfit the Cybertruck with “hell tracks,” a modification promising unparalleled off-road prowess. This endeavor was not without its hurdles, though; given the Cybertruck’s sheer weight and output, multiple parts and brackets ended up needing reinforcements because of how heavy the truck was. Parts would break, fold like cardboard, or even completely disengage, causing the truck to lose control or stop working entirely.

The truck was sourced from Supercar Ron, who happened to have an early Founder’s Edition of the Cybertruck, and very graciously gifted it to the Diesel Brothers team to modify however they saw fit. The journey of modification was a meticulous process involving the creation of custom parts such as bumpers and the addition of extra batteries in the back to support the massive lights installed on the top and the front courtesy Baja Designs. Finally, the truck got a custom wrap featuring a unique camouflage pattern that mimicked the Cybertruck’s angular design.

Testing the modified vehicle revealed a stark duality of success and challenge. On one hand, the Cybertruck demonstrated enhanced stability and performance, a direct result of the thoughtful modifications. On the other, the project was met with significant mechanical setbacks, including a broken spindle—a clear indicator of the factory parts’ limitations under rigorous testing conditions.

However, when the Cybertrack DID work on snow, Heavy D (who was piloting the vehicle) pointed out that the truck was handling the snow incredibly smoothly. “It feels so stable,” he mentioned. “I would feel totally comfortable loading this thing full of skiers and going to the top of any ski resort around, like the steepest runs.” The truck could comfortably cruise around at 40 to 50mph on snow, although there’s a fair discrepancy between what the speedometer says versus your actual ground speed. The speedometer outputs nearly double of what your actual ground speed is (because of how the treads rotate and how that translates to actual ground movement). It held its own on steep inclines too, but there was a bit of a malfunction right towards the end of the video.

Unexpectedly, the project received an encouraging nod from Tesla, an acknowledgment that perhaps was not anticipated. This support not only underscored Tesla’s openness to seeing its vehicles pushed to new boundaries but also cemented a deeper appreciation for the brand and its leadership, marking a positive shift in perception among the project team.

There’s a Part 2 video coming soon, with probably more repairs and modifications to the Cybertrack. You can follow Heavy D Sparks on YouTube for more.

The post YouTuber Turns Tesla’s Cybertruck Into A Full-Blown Snowmobile With Tracks Instead Of Wheels first appeared on Yanko Design.

The 10 Best Designs You Need In Your Yard Or Garden To Gear Up For Spring 2024

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You can do a lot in your backyard! We shouldn’t underestimate our backyards, as they can be major spaces of fun, recreation, and relaxation. Spring is around the corner, and if you’re gearing up for spring season, then you’ve reached the right list. We’ve curated a collection of innovative and functional designs that are the right fit for the spring season. From a portable tiny home on wheels that you can set up in your yard, to a gardening kit that can help you get your hands muddy and green – these unique and functional designs are all you need for a great spring season.

1. Nestron Tiny Homes

Nestron has designed a range of sleek and futuristic tiny homes that feature a highly customizable, and aesthetically pleasing prefab design. The collection includes – Cube One (C1), Cube Two (C2), and Cube Two X (C2X), and they are priced between $42.2k to $126.6k. The homes make for excellent portable tiny home on wheels, that you can take along for your spring adventures, or set up in your backyard!

Why is it noteworthy?

The futuristic homes include solar electricity (or local electricity), heating, and a fully-equipped bathroom with a smart toilet. The interiors can be customized, and they’re quite stunning and ideal for sci-fi fans who want their own futuristic homes!

What we like

  • The homes are built from recyclable materials
  • Everything is handled by Nestron – from logistics and transport to unloading, so you don’t need to worry about anything

What we dislike

  • The homes aren’t very spacious. The most expansion option, the Cube Two X, provides only 398 square feet of space

2. Garden Domes

These quaint little garden domes by Hypedome are designed to serve as office space, yoga dens, additional sleeping quarters, or even calm spaces to rest in. They are a great option if you like sleeping under the stars, of course without the fear of rain and snow. The geodesic domes are designed to make indoor-outdoor living accessible.

Why is it noteworthy?

The domes are designed to offer you an indoor-outdoor space that allows you to enjoy the beauty of nature without having to deal with its extreme side. It may look like the hemispherical garden domes are made from glass, but they are 200 times more durable weather-resistant, and UV-protected too.

What we like

  • They can be used all year round since you can easily heat them during the winter

What we dislike

  • The domed outer wall/ceiling makes the interiors seem smaller than they are.
  • You can’t have furniture set against the curved wall, which wastes precious real estate

3. The Gardener’s Tool Seat

If you’re in the mood to get down and dirty and grow some stuff in your yard this spring, then you need to get this Gardener’s Tool Seat. It gives you everything you could need – a collapsible seat to sit on, gardening tools, and a bonus pocket for carrying a cool drink.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Tool Seat features a standard collapsible tool that is made from stainless-steel piping with a nylon fabric seat, and a smart detail at the base that lets you hang your gardening toolbag underneath it. The bag comes equipped with a gardening toolkit.

What we like

  • It features a space on the inside to accommodate your gardening trimmings

What we dislike

  • The seat doesn’t look too comfy to sit on for long periods

4. Yuanye Foldable Outdoor Grill

Called the Yuanye, this portable outdoor barbecue grilling pan that you can carry with you on your outdoor adventures, or to cook up something delicious in your yard. It resembles a portable projector and can be used with a gas tank, fire source, and oil storage module. It is super useful with good-looking aesthetics.

Why is it noteworthy?

As you open up the grill, you’ll see two partitions that let you grill meats on one side, and vegetables on the other. It is a portable grill that is inspired by a suitcase, but instead of storing clothes, it stores the food you need to eat.

What we like

  • Fashionable, good-looking, and portable appliance
  • You can cook meats as well as veggies on it, preparing a well-balanced meal

What we dislike

  • It’s a conceptual design so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product

5. Smart Coop

This smart coop is meant to simplify every task related to chicken raising. The coop is equipped with an inbuilt IoT camera, that lets you keep a tab on your chicken’s health remotely, even if you’re on the other end of the world. The door can be scheduled to open and close as per your chickens’ habits.

Why is it noteworthy?

The coop can accommodate six chickens, which is enough to sustain a small family. The coop is also weather-resistant, and durable enough to handle the elements. The freshly laid eggs can be collected via a secure hatch without disturbing the chickens within.

What we like

  • The aesthetics haven’t been ignored, the various elements feature contrasting coral hues

What we dislike

  • You need a suitable backyard to accommodate the coop, cant be placed in all yards

6. Dufour

This wooden tiny home called Dufour transports you to a world of luxury, comfort, and elegance. It is built by German tiny house creator Berghaus, and the wooden cabin provides a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern luxury.

Why is it noteworthy?

The tiny home is packed with modern-day luxuries, and it is equipped with two loft bedrooms each with a staircase of its own from the main floor. It measures around 26 feet in length, which makes it much larger than most tiny homes.

What we like

  • It can be used as a family home or a comfy vacation rental
  • It is topped with solar panels

What we dislike

  • It lacks a terrace (expandable or fixed) that can provide a viewing space when in transit

7. Bello! Bench

Fjetland designed the Bello! bench for the aluminum producer Hydro. And what was his muse for this piece? You got it right – pasta, or to be more precise penne rigate.

Why is it noteworthy?

Informed by the design and form of pasta, the Bello! bench is a versatile piece of furniture that can be used indoors and outdoors. It’s been created from nearly ninety percent recycled and one hundred percent recyclable aluminum.

What we like

  • The bench is inspired by a piece of penne rigate, which is responsible for its ridged and textured surface
  • It can be customized and modified to incorporate tables, lamps, or chargers since it does not have an internal support structure

What we dislike

  • The shape of the bench is opposite to what we usually have, ergonomically speaking, which makes it difficult to sit comfortably and could lead to a slipping sensation.

8. The +Base Modular Grill

The +Base Modular Griller is ideal for your yard during the summertime. It can support almost any kind of cooking – from frying to smoking, stewing, grilling, or evening keeping some wine warm. This unique and innovative griller is an ideal fit for your yard. You can cook up some of the veggies you’ve grown in your garden!

Why is it noteworthy?

The All-In-One Grill is designed by a small family-owned Japanese factory, and it is carefully designed to maximize the limited amount of space available. The wooden base protects the table from the grill’s hot bottom, which also functions as a lid when the griller has to be stowed away.

What we like

  • The modular griller lets you cook in seven different ways
  • It simplifies outdoor cooking, allowing you to cook up meals in your yard

What we dislike

  • Hardcore grillers may not like the design or prefer it

9. Panama Banana

Called the Panama Banana, this hammock is the perfect piece of furniture for your yard. It is inspired by tropical elements like the shape of a surfboard and is inspired by the curvature of a banana. It has a tranquil and chill vibe to it, which makes it an excellent addition to your garden or backyard.

Why is it noteworthy?

It’s as comfortable as a hammock or sun chair, but rocks to and fro like a rocking chair, giving you an experience that’s sure to steal your entire afternoon and some more.

What we like

  • The hammock is coated with a water-resistant wax, and it is perfect for outdoor use or indoor use with an outdoor view

What we dislike

  • There is no option or scope for personal customization

10. Böste Lounge Chair

The Böste Lounge Chair is designed by the Swedish furniture company Skargaarden, and it is a minimal and well-designed sturdy lounge chair for your yard. It is designed to weather over time, adding a wonderful patina to the chair, and giving it a different visual with time.

Why is it noteworthy?

The lounge chair is named after the designer’s hometown in Southern Sweden. It is inspired by the classic Westport Chair and is in fact, a Scandinavian version of it. The form of the chair is pretty unique, with the back and seat meeting at an interesting angle, which invites and welcomes users to sit in a gently reclined pose which is great for relaxing and socializing with family and friends.

What we like

  • It is equipped with a separate footrest, that lets users lie down fully and comfortably
  • It is made using sustainably sourced teak

What we dislike

  • Aesthetically similar to other outdoor chairs on the market

The post The 10 Best Designs You Need In Your Yard Or Garden To Gear Up For Spring 2024 first appeared on Yanko Design.

This genius Mesh Pan gives your food a signature smoky flavor as it cooks

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The pan’s open mesh design lets smoke pass through, allowing it to permeate into your food for that wonderful charcoal/wood flavor that makes barbecue taste so tantalizingly good!

Think of a grill, then think of a cast iron pan, now combine the two together! That’s what the award-winning Mesh Pan is all about. Designed to look like a pan, but with a mesh-lined base, the Mesh Pan lets you cook your items directly above a fire. Unlike regular utensils that are solid, only allowing heat to pass through, the Mesh Pan also allows the aromas and flavor compounds present in your charcoal, giving your food a delectably smoky flavor with really no effort. The food cooks comfortably above the fire, while any resulting fat and grease drips through, hitting the charcoal and causing more smoky flavor!

Designers: Takashi Sekimitsu & GateLightDesign (Client – NORIDOMI IRON WORKS Co., Ltd.)

For designer Takashi Sekimitsu, the Mesh Pan isn’t a replacement for your cast iron pan or griddle… or even your grill – it’s an intermediary product that solves a different purpose, making it a great addition to your existing line of outdoor crockery. The fine mesh allows you to directly sear meats, veggies, or even items like noodles or rice over an open flame (something that wouldn’t be possible on a grill). The mesh lining acts as a flame arrestor, preventing the fire from passing through the fine openings, so your food isn’t engulfed in flames. There is, however, a slight danger of causing flare-ups by grease/fat dripping through the mesh directly onto the fire. I’d say maybe avoid grilling anything too fatty like bacon or a wagyu, and opt for leaner game meats, carbs, and veggies.

Once everything’s said and done, cleaning the mesh is as simple as taking a scrubber to it to quickly unclog the pores. You could burn the food clogged in the pores over an open fire too! And if your mesh eventually reaches the end of its life, simply replace it by installing a new mesh on the same existing pan handle!

The post This genius Mesh Pan gives your food a signature smoky flavor as it cooks first appeared on Yanko Design.

Portable Air Conditioner Lets You Enjoy The Outdoors Even During Harsh Summers

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Living in a city like Dubai, where the scorching summer heat can be relentless, I can totally understand the value of a reliable air conditioner. Imagine taking that comfort outdoors with a portable air conditioner – a dream come true for residents like myself. The Yuuye Portable Air Conditioner is designed to transform outdoor spaces into cool, refreshing havens during the sweltering summer months.

Designers: HAORAN and Yifeeling Design

The Yuuye Portable Air Conditioner features a cutting-edge design that combines a refrigeration module with an exhaust module. This ingenious combination allows the device to efficiently suck in the surrounding heat and release cool, refreshing air, providing relief and comfort even in the midst of scorching temperatures.

The inclusion of an LCD ensures easy control and monitoring of the cooling settings. The super-large air outlet guarantees a widespread and consistent flow of cool air, ensuring that every corner of your outdoor space is covered.

Recognizing the need for convenience, this portable Air Conditioner is designed for one-handed handling, making it easy to move and position. The quick disassembly feature further enhances portability, allowing users to effortlessly switch between different outdoor locations.

The challenges faced while using traditional outdoor air conditioning units were identified and addressed while designing the modular design of the Yuuye Portable Air Conditioner such as –

Effortless Scene Switching

Traditional outdoor air conditioners often involve heavy components and energy-consuming behaviors during scene switching. The Yuuye Portable Air Conditioner utilizes a modular approach, allowing users to detach the upper and lower modules with a simple ‘release and lift’ mechanism. This innovative design turns scene switching from a physically demanding task into a comfortable and hassle-free experience.

Mosquito Prevention

Thick exhaust pipes in traditional outdoor air conditioners can create gaps between the tent and the pipes, allowing mosquitoes to enter. The Yuuye Portable Air Conditioner eliminates this issue with an independent exhaust block, ensuring a mosquito-free outdoor experience.

Space Efficiency

The large volume of traditional outdoor air conditioners often occupies significant space in the trunk. The modular design of the Yuuye Portable Air Conditioner allows for efficient use of space, making it more practical and convenient for transportation.

Operation Mode

The Yuuye Portable Air Conditioner operates by taking in indoor heat, processing it through the refrigeration module for rapid cooling and strong temperature control, and then releasing the hot air outside through the exhaust module. This efficient process ensures a constant and comfortable cooling experience in outdoor settings. However, the battery life is unknown but I’m sure the designers would’ve taken care of it.

Yuuye Portable Air Conditioner is a game-changer for those living in hot climates, offering a portable solution to enjoy the outdoors without sacrificing comfort. Its innovative design, user-friendly features, and modular approach make it a valuable addition to the arsenal of anyone looking to beat the heat in style.

The post Portable Air Conditioner Lets You Enjoy The Outdoors Even During Harsh Summers first appeared on Yanko Design.