When people think of seed bombs today, they often associate them with guerrilla gardening—a modern movement aimed at reclaiming neglected urban spaces. However, the concept of seed bombs has ancient roots, reaching back to both Japan and Egypt.
Japan - The idea of seed bombs is closely linked to the pioneering work of Japanese farmer and philosopher, Masanobu Fukuoka. Renowned for his innovative farming techniques that emphasized working harmoniously with nature, Fukuoka developed the concept of the "Tsuchi Dango" or "Earth Dumpling." These were simple clay balls filled with seeds, designed to be scattered on the land, allowing nature to take its course. Fukuoka's methods have had a lasting impact on sustainable agriculture and continue to inspire gardeners and environmentalists around the world.
Egypt - The origins of seed balls can also be traced back to ancient Egypt. Faced with the challenge of ensuring crops would grow after the annual Nile floods, the Egyptians developed a technique of encasing seeds in balls of nutrient-rich clay or mud. This method not only protected the seeds from being washed away but also provided essential nutrients to help them germinate and thrive in challenging conditions. This early innovation laid the groundwork for what we now recognize as seed bombs.
Why Seed bomb?
There are several compelling reasons to consider using seed bombs. Their ease of use makes them accessible to everyone, from experienced gardeners to those just starting. Seed bombs are a time-saving solution for reforesting or greening large areas, allowing you to transform spaces with minimal effort. Plus, they are an effective way to promote biodiversity by introducing native plant species back into the environment.
While there are numerous resources available to help you create your own seed bombs, we’ve partnered with Native Seed Box to offer an easy-to-use option that includes a variety of native plant species. Their seed bombs are designed to be accessible for all gardening abilities—no tools or prior experience required. Most are simply throw and watch them grow!
About Native Seed Box
Native Seed Box was founded by Natasha Ballard, whose deep commitment to environmental sustainability is reflected in both her academic background—a Bachelor of Science with Honours in Zoology and a Graduate Diploma in Environmental Sustainability—and her professional career. Natasha’s passion for preserving native flora and fauna inspired her to create a business that aligns with her values. By contributing positively to the environment, Native Seed Box aligns with Livable Garden Centre's values too.
Native Seed Box actively supports local environmental projects and Landcare groups. The company operates entirely on solar energy and is proud to be 100% plastic-free. Recently, they’ve developed one of Australia’s first seed bomb rolling machines, capable of producing up to 500 seed bombs per day! This innovation positions Native Seed Box to contribute even more significantly to large-scale revegetation efforts in the future.
Join the Movement
Seed bombs are a simple yet powerful tool. Why not start using them in your own garden, share them as thoughtful gifts with friends and family, or contribute to your local community garden? Together, we can nurture our environment—one seed bomb at a time.