Since the mid-1800s, Christmas cards have been one of the most cherished holiday traditions. And since that time little has changed in their function and appearance. Even with all our high-tech gadgets, these simple pieces of paper convey feelings and strengthen connections in a way a text, email or Facebook post could never do. However, if you’re lucky someone might send you a Christmas card this year like no other card you’ve received before. You might get one made of seed paper. Cards made from seed paper are becoming more and more popular as folks look for unique ways to send their season’s greetings. Unlike traditional Christmas cards which get displayed during the holidays then chucked in the garbage can after New Year’s, cards made from seed paper are the gifts that keep on giving.
Step 1: When to Plant
So you’ve just received a holiday card made from seed paper. Awesome, but what should you do next? The seeds embedded within your card are wildflower seeds, and wildflower seeds need to be planted during the spring or fall. You’re going to need to hold on to your card until the snow melts and the weather gets warmer. If you live in a warmer climate that rarely, or never, freezes you can go ahead and plant your card during the cooler winter months. Store your seed paper holiday card in a cool, dry area until you’re ready to plant it.
Step 2: How and Where to Plant
Once the snow has melted, planting your seed paper holiday card is pretty easy. Wildflowers can be grown in a container or a garden, but wherever you decide make sure it’s the spot you want them to be permanently. Many wildflowers form deep taproots, and transplanting them can be difficult.
- Soak the your card in water for 10 seconds.
- Place your card on moist, bare soil in a sunny area.
- Gently press it into the soil.
- Sprinkle a thin layer of soil on top of the card no thicker than 1/8 to 1/4 inch. If planting outside, you may want to place a small rock or a few pebbles on it to ensure it doesn’t blow away in the wind.
- Water the seed paper immediately after planting and ensure the area stays moist throughout germination
Step 3: After Planting
Keep the seed paper constantly moist, but not soaked, until you see small green seedlings begin to sprout. This could take a few weeks, so be patient. Regular watering is important at first, but once the wildflowers are established they are pretty drought tolerant.
Try Making Your Own Seed Paper
You can also try making your own seed paper. It’s a fun family activity and can add a unique touch to birthday cards, wedding announcements and more. Collect the seed from your own wildflowers, or select seed from our wide range of blends.