Activity: Clay Seed Shapes

Photos: Meg Handler / The Human Nature Center

Seedballs are an ancient way to keep seeds safe until the right weather for plants to grow. Made of compost and clay, they provide food and protection for the seed until rain melts the clay and activates growth.

This recipe takes a fun spin on the seed ball with the idea that you can make your own vegetable or wildflower seed balls and shapes to share.

What you’ll need:

  • ½ cup red clay (dry or wet both work)

  • ½ cup compost

  • Sunflower seeds (raw, in shell)

  • Small bowl, newspaper, spray bottle filled with water

  • Optional: dried corn husks for petals & turmeric with water to color the petals yellow

Instructions:

  1. Mix clay and compost. If using dry clay, spray with water until the mixture forms a dough that holds together.

  2. Press a thick patty about the diameter of a silver dollar and at least ¼ inch thick.

  3. Press seeds firmly into the patty.

  4. Decorate with petals made from clay or another natural material.

  5. Let dry overnight. Option: poke a hole while semi-dry and hang, or store in a cool, dry place until planting time.

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