GROWHOUSE

BLACK HISTORY + HERITAGE CORRIDOR

PLANTINGS

Renderings by Alin K., Allyson Q., Oona A. under the supervision of Garrick Jones of Ten to One

“Each Bloom Ball is a little package of hope for pollinators, people, and the planet.”

1. What Bloom Balls Are

  • Bloom Balls are small, hand-formed balls made of soil, clay, and seeds.

  • They’re designed to be tossed or placed in areas where plants are wanted, without digging or traditional planting.

  • Once rain and sun reach them, the clay protects the seeds until they’re ready to sprout.

2. Why We Use Them

  • Low-impact planting – No need for tools or disturbing the soil.

  • Accessible – Anyone can participate, from children to elders.

  • Eco-friendly – Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies, reduces erosion, and beautifies spaces.

  • Restorative – Helps bring life back to neglected areas, especially in urban environments.

3. Connection to Our Mission

  • Bloom Balls fit into the BLAC Land Trust and GrowHouse vision of land stewardship, community healing, and ecological justice.

  • They are a simple, joyful way to reclaim space for nature - especially in historically underserved neighborhoods.

  • Encourages community members to participate in environmental care without heavy cost or technical knowledge.

4. How to Use Them

  • Identify safe, appropriate locations (public green spaces, community gardens, tree pits, vacant lots where planting is allowed).

  • Toss or place gently so they land in contact with soil.

  • Avoid private property unless permission is granted.

  • Best seasons – Spring and early fall are ideal, but summer works with consistent watering or after rain.

5. Care & Follow-Up

  • Check the spot after a few weeks to see sprouts.

  • If possible, water them occasionally in dry periods.

  • Share photos and updates to inspire others to join in.

The Recipe

*

The Recipe *

Step 1: 

Combine the following in a mixing bowl/container of your choice:

1 Tablespoon of Clay Powder

1.5 Tablespoon or Compost

A Pinch of Native Plant Seeds

1/2 Tablespoon of Water


Step 2:

Mix the ingredients together until they are well combined. 


Step 3:

Take handfuls of the mixture, and roll into a ball. Place them on a dish to dry overnight. 


Step 4: 

Throw your dried native plant Bloom Balls in a sunny location where you want flowers to grow. Consider tree pits, empty lots or your own yard. Be sure to ask permission if you’d like to plant on someone else’s property!