Exploding Seed Pod Model

In this activity, students build a model of an exploding seed pod using balloons filled with bird seed. When the balloon is popped, the seeds scatter, simulating how plants use mechanical adaptations to disperse seeds away from the parent plant.

1. Place a balloon over the end of a funnel.
2. Pour parakeet bird seed or confetti into the funnel to fill the balloon.
3. Tie off the balloon to seal it.
4. Place butcher paper or a plastic tablecloth on the ground outdoors to catch the seeds.
5. Hold the balloon outward and pop it with a sharp pencil.
6. Observe how the seeds scatter and record the distances traveled.
7. Have students draw and label their results, including measurements of dispersal.

Seed Dispersal Experiment #1: Blast Zone - Green Ninja Academy:

📄 Seed Dispersal Activity: Build an Exploding Seed Pod - Around the Kampfire Teaching: https://aroundthekampfire.com/seed-dispersal-activity-build-exploding-seed-pod-for-kids/

• Compare the dispersal distance using different balloon sizes.
• Try different types of seeds (without clogging the funnel).
• Pop balloons at different angles to simulate pods bursting in different directions.
• Have older students calculate the area and perimeter of seed dispersal.

• Safety glasses recommended when popping balloons.
• Balloons may cause loud pops—warn students in advance.
• Use sharp pencils carefully to avoid injuries.
• Ensure activity is done outdoors or with a protective covering indoors.
• Be cautious with small seeds and balloon pieces around young children (choking hazard).

• Why do some plants use exploding seed pods for dispersal? (To spread seeds farther from the parent plant, reducing competition for resources.)
• How does this method compare with wind or animal seed dispersal? (Exploding pods send seeds quickly in multiple directions, while wind and animals transport seeds more gradually or selectively.)
• What advantage do smaller seeds have in this type of dispersal? (They are lighter and travel farther when launched.)