Sydney Pursel: "Seed Bomb Machine"

Bees, birds, and butterflies hold a special place in my heart both personally and culturally as a member of the Ioway tribe of Kansas and Nebraska. The butterfly in particular is featured prominently in some of my work. It pains me to see these species struggle as their habitats have been lost to industrial farming that has completely altered the landscape, especially here in the Midwest. Monarch butterfly populations are in decline due to the lack of milkweed they need to survive their massive migrations. Industrial farms spray chemicals that eradicate milkweed leaving butterflies vulnerable and cities full of concrete provide little refuge. Through the planting of wildflowers including milkweed, we can help restore pollinator habitats. Seed bombing is just one small way each of us can make a difference!

 

Seed bombs are a mixture of seeds and soil that can be dried and dispersed. The protective layer of soil and clay around the seeds assists with germination and prevents them from becoming snacks for hungry birds. These seed bombs include a mixture of wildflower and milkweed seeds. Because seeds require exposure to cold for a period of time (aka. Winter) you can plant your seed balls in the fall for flowers the following spring. Plant them in areas you think would benefit from wildflowers that attract birds and bees and provide safe havens for butterflies.

 

Project funded by BeWild ReWild