DIY Plantable Marigold Seed Paper Hearts: A Fun and Eco-Friendly Mother’s Day Craft

This hands-on activity not only helps in fine motor skill development but also gives a sense of accomplishment. It can even help to create a deeper connection with the cycle of plants, nature and seasons!

By Elise Clarkson, Wild Mountain Child

Looking for a creative and sustainable way to celebrate Mother’s Day this year? Why not try making your own marigold seed paper hearts using paper recycling and a touch of imagination!

Eco-friendly crafting for Mother’s Day

Inspired by Sibia @sibster and her paper-making adventures, I decided to embark on this eco-friendly crafting journey, albeit with a few unexpected twists and turns.

Without fully reading the instructions (oops!), I jumped right in with my very wilted bunch of marigolds and a mission to create something beautiful out of waste.

Armed with a stick blender instead of the recommended blender (oops again!), things got a little messier than I anticipated. Clumps of paper gloop flying everywhere? Check. But hey, we had fun, and isn’t that what crafting is all about? Read on to see how it all turned out …

How to make DIY plantable marigold seed paper hearts

The process was simple yet satisfying:

1. Mix paper recycling waste (toilet paper rolls are perfect) with water and let it soak for a couple of hours (though I probably should have left it longer).
2. Blend the mixture to create a pulp.
3. Shape the pulp inside the heart cutters letting the excess water drain away through a screen or inexpensive splash guard (Kmart).
4. Leave them on a dish towel to dry completely (1-2 days depending on the weather). Given the wet conditions where we live, I decided to speed up the drying process by placing our creations in a low-temperature (30-40 degrees celcius ) oven for a few hours. A little creative problem-solving.

For my makeshift crafting setup, I used a $3 splash guard from Kmart, a kids’ Trofast bin from Ikea, and some heart-shaped cutters. Talk about making the most out of what you have on hand!

I can’t wait to use these “trashy” creations as gift tags this Mother’s Day, because let’s face it, nothing says “I love you, Mum” like an upcycled toilet roll heart, right? Sometimes, the most meaningful gifts come from the heart, the bathroom – and a dash of creativity.

Plus who doesn’t love marigolds ?

Marigolds are a great choice for little gardeners

Firstly, marigolds are incredibly easy to grow, which offers an easy (achievable) gardening experience for kids. Their vibrant colours and quick growth time can keep kids interested in the gardening process. Marigolds are not only the happiest most cheerful plant but they also serve a practical purpose by repelling garden pests and attracting beneficial insects, ahh YAY!! and teaching kids about the balance of nature. This aspect of marigold cultivation can be a stepping stone into lessons on nature and environmental care, making them a multifaceted educational resource.

How to harvest marigold seeds

When it comes to harvesting seeds, the process is straightforward and easy for kids to follow along and try themselves. As marigolds finish their bloom and the petals begin to dry and fade, the seed pods at the base of each flower will become visible. It’s important to wait until the pods are fully dry before attempting to collect seeds; this usually means waiting until the end of the growing season, which can teach kids patience! haha okay maybe thats a stretch but they can “experience” patience.

Once dry, the pods can be gently plucked from the plant. Kids can then open the pods to reveal the seeds inside. The easiest way we found is to roll the pod.

How to plant seed paper

To plant seed paper, start by selecting a pot with drainage holes and filling it with moist soil. Place the seed paper on top of the soil, ensuring it’s flat and in full contact with soil. Now cover the paper lightly with about a handful of soil, then water gently

Keep the soil moist but not super soggy ie; don’t drown the paper.

Place the pot in a location that receives plenty of sunlight. Seed paper typically starts to sprout within 7-10 days. Once seedlings appear, continue to keep the soil moist and provide it with lovely sunlight.

As plants grow, thin out if necessary to prevent overcrowding. Now you have a beautiful Marigold plant and when its flowers wilt we can begin the process all over again. I am actually signing the cycle of life in my head right now!

So, if you’re looking to add a personal touch to your Mother’s Day gifts this year, why not give this DIY marigold seed paper hearts craft a try? It’s a fun way to repurpose paper waste, get the kids involved, and show your appreciation for all the wonderful Mums out there. Happy crafting! 🌼♻️

This article was first published on Wild Mountain Child and has been republished with permission.

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