NASA Logo

Make Seed Balls

Disclaimer: This material is being kept online for historical purposes. Though accurate at the time of publication, it is no longer being updated. The page may contain broken links or outdated information, and parts may not function in current web browsers.

Make Exploding Seed Balls!

Photograph of finished seed balls.

Credit: Kevan Davis.

Want to have some fun while making the world a greener, more environmentally-friendly place? Make exploding balls of seeds that are both fun to throw and an easy way to grow native wildflowers.

Here’s what you need (makes 8-10 balls):

  • 1/2 oz native wildflower seeds.
  • 3 1/2 oz dry, organic potting soil
  • 1 1/2 oz dry clay (we suggest powdered red pottery clay)
  • Water
  • A mixing bowl
  • A cookie sheet for drying the seed balls
  • wax paper

Here’s what to do:

  1. Line cookie sheet with wax paper.
  2. Mix seeds and potting soil together.
  3. Add dry clay and mix again.
  4. Slowly add water while still mixing the seeds, potting soil, and water into a well-blended paste.
  5. When you are able to form a ball of the blended material without it falling apart, you are ready to stop mixing.
  6. Mold the mixture into small (~1 inch diameter) balls and place cookie sheet or tray with wax paper.
  7. Allow balls to dry in the sun for at least one day.


Now that I have made seed balls, what do I do with them?

  1. All you have to do is throw them at a patch of dirt and watch it explode! Once it rains (or you water them), they have everything they need to grow.
  2. They also make great gifts! Put them in a plastic bag and give them to all your friends.
Photograph of finished seed balls.

Credit: Herder3.

link image for downloading pdf of above activity