Happy Earth Week! What better way to celebrate than by making wildflower seed bombs which will provide habitat and food for our essential pollinators?! Seed bombs are so easy to make and the process to make them is simple— soil and seeds are encased in clay, which then dries and hardens. The clay layer on the outside protects the seeds from hungry critters and after some rainfall (or watering) the clay on the outside layer of the seed bomb will wash away and the moist soil inside will allow the seeds to germinate. I’m using a white air dry clay because it’s easily obtainable but red clay powder is another great option. When choosing seeds for your seed bombs, only use seeds for plants that are native to your area to avoid introducing invasive plants into your garden and neighborhood. Seed bombs make fantastic gifts or party favors and can easily be made in bulk ahead of time.

Materials:

– non-toxic air dry clay — I recommend this one since it’s easy to obtain. If you have the time to source, other great options for clay are kaolin or red clay, both in powdered form
– native wildflower seeds
– organic potting soil
– organic compost (optional)
– dried or pressed flowers (optional)

How to Make Wildflower Seed Bombs:

Step 1: How to add dried flowers

Roll a small amount of clay into a ball, then press it down flat. You want a ratio of about 4 parts clay to 1 part soil/compost. If you’re attaching pressed flowers you’ll add those after your seed bombs have been formed. If you are adding decorative dried flower petals to the outside, you’ll attach them now to the side facing up by pressing them into the clay. Flip over. Add soil or soil/compost (I mix equal parts compost and soil. If you do not have compost just use soil) on top, followed by a pinch of seeds.

Step 2: How to form the seed bomb

Seal the opening of the clay by pinching it shut, encasing the soil and seed mixture within the clay. Gently re-roll into a ball if necessary. Repeat with remaining materials. Place on parchment paper or cardboard and let dry. This could take a day or two depending on how humid it is where you live. Once they are completely dry they can be stored in a cool, dry and dark place until you are ready to use them.

Step 3: How to use your seed bombs

Plant in early spring or during autumn. Simply toss them into hard to reach areas (on your own property, or where you have permission to plant) and wait a few weeks after a good rainfall for them to sprout. You can also use these in your garden by placing them on the soil surface and watering them frequently for a few weeks until the clay washes away and the seeds begin to germinate.