In the future, we will publish various workshops on the topics of urban and guerrilla gardening here. We start now with the production of seed bombs. And to get everyone on board, here is a brief definition of what seed bombs actually are. In the same Wikipedia article, you will also find more interesting information about the history, use, and production of seed bombs.
Seed Bomb also Seed Ball (English Seed Bomb or Seed Ball, jap.nendo dango, 粘土 団子) refers to a handy ball formed from soil, which contains plant seeds. Seed bombs are used in the guerrilla gardening movement as a quick and effective method of sowing (Source: Wikipedia – http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samenbombe).
Now that the basics are laid out, let’s get active! We don’t need much: clay or clay powder, potting soil, water, and seeds. It sounds simple, and it is. However, as with any action, one should be aware of their responsibility. This means, for one, using peat-free soil. Ideally, organic soil. Also, we process seeds from plants that fit into the local ecosystem and whose requirements we can meet with the sowing via seed bombs.
Step 1: The Seed Bomb Dough
So much for theory, now on to practice: We normally use one liter of clay powder, 600 ml of soil, and plenty of seeds. In the first step, we mix the clay powder and soil and then gradually add the water until the desired, moldable consistency is reached.
Water amount by feel – practice makes perfect
Then we sprinkle the seeds on the prepared seed bomb dough and work them into the mass until the seeds are evenly distributed.
The seeds must be evenly worked in.
Step 2: Forming the Balls
Well, this probably doesn’t need much explanation: Just take the dough in your hands and start forming it into balls. The size can range from “large walnut to small apple”. This also largely depends on where you want to use the seed bombs.
A formed, undried seed bomb.
Step 3: Drying the Seed Bombs
The finished seed bombs should be dried as quickly as possible. In summer and on warm spring days, this should not be a problem, but on damp winter evenings, it can be problematic. So, there are two options: Either the conditions are enough to dry the seed bombs in about twelve hours, or you use the oven at very low temperatures (~50° C). If the seed bombs take longer to dry, they can easily start to germinate immediately and must then be used quickly.
The drying bombs are impatiently waiting for their use.
Step 4: Get Active and DIY!
Now we can only wish you lots of fun. Get active and let us know about your experiences. Just post your own photos and reports at https://www.facebook.com/cookdrinklove/