Peterborough school grounds set to spring into life thanks to seed bombs

Seed bombs are little balls made up of compost, clay and native wildflower seeds that are thrown on the ground to self-seed.

City environmental charity PECT is donating 5,000 seed bombs to schools across Peterborough.

By using these in school grounds, the charity aims to increase the biodiversity of the city’s urban environments.

“We’ve made up special kits for schools so that they can easily grow a variety of wildflowers to attract birds, bees, and butterflies – plus add a splash of colour to their outdoor spaces!” explains Heidi Latronico-Ferris, PECT’s Environmental Education Lead. “The added benefit of this initiative is that it will encourage local school children to learn about, connect with, and appreciate the nature on their doorstep.”

Over 3 million hectares of wildflower-rich grassland has been lost in England alone over the last 70 years, leading to a widespread decline in bees, moths, and insects. PECT aims to reverse the serious decline in pollinator numbers by creating a network of wildflower pathways, linking together existing habitats in the city.

Heidi added: “The kits are available in limited numbers, so we would encourage teachers from Peterborough primary and secondary schools to get in touch with us sooner rather than later to claim their seed bombs. In addition, we have a number of mini learning kits available for registered home-schooling families too and can also provide e-learning resources too.”

The deadline for schools to apply for the free resources is April 1, simply fill in the form at www.pect.org.uk/projects/environmental-education. For more information, call 01733 568408 (ext. 314) or email [email protected]. PECT’s pollinator projects are supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, People’s Postcode Lottery, Viridor, Peterborough City Council and Buglife.