Amazing Seed Adventures: How Seeds Travel!

For kids

Seeds need to travel to find a good place to grow! Discover the different ways seeds move around in nature and start new plants.

Wind Power!

Some seeds are super light and fluffy, perfect for catching the wind! These seeds can travel long distances, like little adventurers on a windy journey.

• Dandelion Seeds: These have a tiny parachute that helps them float.
• Maple Seeds: These spin like helicopters when they fall from the tree.

Try this! Find a dandelion seed head and blow on it. Watch the seeds fly away!

Animal Helpers!

Animals play a big role in seed dispersal! Some seeds have hooks or barbs that stick to fur or feathers. Others are inside yummy fruits that animals eat.

• Burdock Seeds: These have tiny hooks that cling to animal fur.
• Berries: Birds eat berries and then poop out the seeds in a new location. Yuck, but helpful!

Water Ride!

Seeds that grow near water often travel by floating! These seeds are usually lightweight and have a waterproof coating to protect them on their journey.

• Coconut: This giant seed can float across the ocean to new islands!
• Mangrove Seeds: These seeds can float and even start growing roots while still in the water.

Seed-Slinging Plants!

Some plants are real go-getters! They have pods that burst open and fling their seeds far away.

• Touch-Me-Nots: Also known as jewelweed, these plants explode when touched, sending seeds scattering.

Seed dispersal is an amazing way plants ensure their survival! Next time you're outside, look around and see if you can spot seeds traveling in different ways.