DIY Birdseed Wreaths

My daughter gave me this adorable little 'sun' birdseed wreath for my birthday. It combines my love of the sun motif with my love for feeding the birds. I'm not sure how well the string will hold up in the weather, so I'm going to hang it under the roof of my front steps where it will have some protection from the wind and snow while still being available to hungry birds.

When I read the ingredients, I noticed that it included birdseed and gelatin - which, of course, made me wonder if I could make one of my own. With a few minutes of research, I found a recipe for making your own seed wreath or molded seed block. Here's how you make them.


Ingredients: 

• 8 cups of birdseed 
  
• 1 cup of water 
  
• 2 packs of unflavored gelatin.
  
• Molds 

Instructions:

1. Mix the gelatin with the cup of water and allow it to dissolve.
2. Add the birdseed and stir to coat all the seeds.
3. Press the birdseed and gelatin into a greased mold. 
4. Insert a loop for hanging into the block or ring of seeds.
5. Allow to set for 24 to 48 hours.

Tips

• Use a bunt or tube pan for making a wreath or use a bowl or square container for making a solid block of seeds. 
• If your wreath will be exposed to the elements, consider wrapping it in a mesh bag to prevent it from crumbling if it gets wet.
• Use jello molds to create unique shapes.
  
• Add nuts or berries to offer birds a special treat.
• Blocks can be offered to birds in suet feeders.

                                                                      Until Next Time . . . HAPPY GARDENING!