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Dig It! -A practical toolkit.
how local governments can support community gardens
Dig It: A practical toolkit
How to Make Seed Balls (or Bombs)
Seed balls, simply put, are a method for distributing seeds by encasing them in a mixture of clay and compost. The compost gives the seeds a boost to start growing and the ball protects the seed from being eaten or blown away.
Seed balls are scattered directly on the ground, not planted. Seed balls are useful for seeding dry, thin and compacted soils and for reclaiming derelict ground. We like ‘em because they’re easy to chuck over fences into empty lots.
Toss your seed balls into vacant areas where you’d like to see more plants. Beware lawn mowers and don’t be affraid to spread the balls thickly on the ground. Don’t bother with veggie seeds, plant native seeds and helpful pioneer species. Based upon our test plot, buckwheat seeds seem to work the best in Urban Vancouver. See below for other suggestions on what seeds to use.
How To Make. . .
Makes approximately 30-40 seedballs
Step 1: Mix 1/4 cup assorted seeds (use soil builders and nitrogen fixers like: winter rye, alfalfa, buckwheat and/or non-invasive clover; pollinator-loving plants like phacelia and alyssum; mixed with a few native species) with 2 cups of dry organic compost.
Step 2: Add just enough dry terracotta clay (purchase from art supply stores) and water to hold the mix together.
Step 3: Take a pinch of the mixture and roll in the palm of your hand into penny-sized round balls.
Step 4: Scatter seedballs wildly.
Starting a Community Garden Guidebook
Ever wanted to start your own community garden? Follow this link to download the Vancouver Community Agriculture Network's workshop guide to "Growing Community Gardens".
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