ReWilding “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. It pains me to see these species struggle as their habitats have been lost to industrial farming and urbanization that has completely altered the landscape. Monarch butterfly populations rely on milkweed to survive their massive migrations. Industrial farms spray chemicals that eradicate milkweed and cities lack areas for milkweed to grow leaving butterflies traveling through parts of the Midwest especially vulnerable. Through the planting of wildflowers including milkweed, we can help restore habitats that butterflies and other species rely on. 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 assist with germination and prevents birds and other animals from eating them. These seed bombs include a mixture of wildflower and milkweed seeds. 

This project was supported by BeWildReWild through the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation.

ReWilding “Seed Bomb” Machines have been on display at: