How to make Seed Bombs

Why Make Seed Bombs?

The decline of bees and other pollinators is a critical issue that threatens not only the environment but also our food security. Pollinators play a vital role in the reproduction of many plants, including fruits, vegetables, and flowers. To help combat this decline and support the survival of these important creatures, we can take action by creating seed bombs. These small, eco-friendly balls are easy to make and can make a big difference. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of making seed bombs using seeds, soil, and clay powder.

Important!

Unless the source of seeds has been exclusively harvested from native wildflowers, do not spread seeds of unknown origins/species into the wild. Harvesting indigenous seeds is in itself a fun activity which we encourage for seed-bomb making. You can still make seedbombs from seeds purchased locally, but these should be planted only in private gardens, rooftops, balconies or other ‘controlled’ locations. Make sure that any seeds bought are Mediterrenean, pollinator-friendly, flower seeds. This way you make sure that your efforts are most effective towards our pollinator friends!

BeeAware organised a wildflower seed harvesting exercise. The seeds were then used in an activity with the goal of creating 1000 seed bombs by the community for the community. You can read about our initiative here.

Materials You’ll Need:

Seeds: Select a diverse mix of pollinator-friendly native plant seeds, such as wildflowers and herbs. Native plants are adapted to your region and provide essential food and habitat for local pollinators. In Malta, these can include: borage, lavender, poppies, fennel, calendula, red clover, oregano, chamomile, asparagus, wall rocket and sowthistle.
Soil: Use a mixture of high-quality potting soil or compost. This will provide the necessary nutrients for seedlings to thrive.
Clay: You can use natural clay powder or purchase clay from a craft store. The clay helps retain moisture and acts as a protective shell for the seeds.
Water: You’ll need a bit of water to moisten the soil and clay mixture.
Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl will make it easier to combine the ingredients.
Measuring Tools: Depending on the quantity of seed bombs you want to make, measuring cups and spoons may be useful.

Steps to Make Seed Bombs:

Prepare the Soil: In a bowl, mix together 3/4 cup of seeds with 5 cups of compost and 2 cups of clay powder. Ensure that the seeds are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Add a small amount of water and mix until the soil is moist but not overly wet. The soil should hold its shape when squeezed without dripping water.
Form the Seed Bombs: Take a small handful of the soil mixture and roll it into a small ball. Place your seed bombs on a tray or in a sunny location to air dry. This may take a few days, depending on the humidity in your area.
Store or Distribute: Once your seed bombs are completely dry, you can store them in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to use them. Alternatively, distribute them in areas that need more pollinator-friendly plants.

If you decide to distribute seed bombs to the public, write a note with instructions on how to plant them or even better, how to create them! This way you will create a ripple effect where people will learn how to make them at home even after they use your seed bomb!

Making seed bombs is a fun and environmentally friendly way to contribute to the conservation of pollinators and the restoration of biodiversity. Every seed bomb you make and scatter brings us one step closer to a world where our pollinators thrive, and our ecosystems flourish. So, let’s all be the change and start making seed bombs today!