Seed bombs let you scatter seeds in unexpected places.
Making seed bombs and throwing, concealing, digging, or just gently placing them in places you see that could use a little love – think vacant lots, and random patches of public dirt – is a fun and productive way to get your hands dirty, and adds a little (or a lot) of beauty to your world.
Seed bombs were created by members of the guerrilla gardening movement: green-thumbed city dwellers, all over the world, who have been taking it upon themselves to beautify neglected plots of land since the 1970s. Disclaimer: Seed bombing can be a legal grey area. Check with your local authority for guidelines regarding seed bombing.
What You’ll Need to Make Seed Bombs
- Clay
- Native Seeds
- Compost or Potting Mix
- Water
The seeds of native flowers and plants are the most desirable for seed bombing, as they will grow well without a lot of tending. They also won’t crowd out other plants, disrupt bird and insect populations, or do other environmental damage.
Method for Making Seed Bombs
1. Lay your clay, seeds (a mixture of seeds, or just one type), and compost out on a surface that you don’t mind getting a little dirty.
2. Divide them into five parts clay; one part compost (or potting mix); and one part seeds.
3. Next, form the compound for the outside of the seed bombs by combining the clay and the compost. The clay might be quite tough until you’ve warmed it with your hands, so don’t be afraid to get stuck in. Adding a drop or two of water can help to make it more pliable, but be careful not to overdo it. The mixture should be malleable, but not too sloppy. Carefully add more water if you need to, one drop at a time, and rub it all together until it has a gritty, dough-like mixture.
4. Add the seeds and gradually work them in, using the same rubbing and kneading method.
5. Tear the mixture into pieces about the size of a nectarine and roll them into balls.
6. You can plant your seed bombs while they are moist or let them dry. As long as they are watered once they’re planted – either by you, or by the rain – the clay will break down, and the seeds will grow.
In a few weeks’ time, you should see your seeds starting to grow into beautiful plants and flowers for the whole community to enjoy.
