If you made a wreath out of bird seed and it fell apart, there are a few potential reasons why this may have happened.
Using the Wrong Adhesive
One of the most common reasons bird seed wreaths fall apart is because the wrong adhesive was used. Bird seed wreaths need a strong glue or adhesive that can withstand humidity, rain, and outdoor elements. Here are some questions and answers about the adhesive used:
What types of adhesive work best for bird seed wreaths?
The best types of adhesive for bird seed wreaths are:
- Hot glue from a hot glue gun
- Craft glue or tacky glue
- Mod Podge or decoupage sealer
Why do regular school glues or white glues not work well?
Regular white school glues like Elmer’s don’t work well for bird seed wreaths because they are water-soluble and will dissolve and fall apart when exposed to moisture outside. They do not provide a strong enough bond for all the bird seed to stay in place.
Should I use a liquid or solid glue?
Using a liquid glue that you can easily brush on tends to work better than solid glues. Liquid glues like hot glue, tacky glue, or Mod Podge more thoroughly coat each piece of bird seed to keep them firmly in place.
Not Using a Sealant
Another mistake that can lead to a bird seed wreath falling apart is not using any type of sealant over the wreath. A sealant like varnish, decoupage sealer, or polyurethane will help protect the wreath from moisture damage.
How does a sealant help protect the wreath?
A sealant provides a protective layer over the entire surface of the wreath. This waterproofs the wreath and prevents moisture from getting inside and weakening the glue and bird seed material. It provides an extra barrier against the elements.
What types of sealants work best?
Good sealant options include:
- Polyurethane
- Mod Podge or decoupage sealer
- Spray acrylic sealer
- Exterior varnish
How many coats of sealant should I apply?
For best results, apply at least 2-3 thin coats of sealant to the entire surface of the bird seed wreath, allowing each coat to fully dry before adding another one.
Using Old or Expired Bird Seed
Bird seed can go bad over time, which leads to it essentially falling apart. Using old or expired bird seed that is dry, crumbly, and brittle will likely lead to a wreath that doesn’t hold together well.
How can you tell if bird seed is too old to use?
Here are some signs that bird seed is too old or expired to make a wreath with:
- The seed appears dried out and cracked
- The seed is moldy or caked together
- It has an unpleasant or bitter odor
- It feels very lightweight when you pour it
How long does bird seed typically last?
Most bird seed will stay fresh for 1-2 years if stored in a cool, dry place. After that, the oils in the seeds start to go rancid and the seed loses viability. Old bird seed lacks the internal moisture and oils needed to adhere and stick together well.
Should you taste test old bird seed?
Yes, you can try tasting a few seeds from an open bag of bird seed. If the seed has a bitter, sour, or unpleasant flavor, it has likely gone rancid and should be discarded. Fresh bird seed should taste nutty, mild, and not bitter.
Using the Wrong Bird Seed
Not all types of bird seed work well for making wreaths. The seed needs to be small enough to adhere in a single layer on the form and have an oval or rounded shape. Here are some tips on selecting the best bird seed for wreaths:
What are the best types of bird seed to use in wreaths?
The best choices are:
- Millet
- Nyjer or thistle seed
- Finch mix blends
- Certain types of millet blends
Why shouldn’t large seeds be used?
Large seeds like sunflower kernels, peanuts, and corn don’t work well in wreaths because they are too big and heavy. They tend to fall off easily and create an uneven surface.
What issues do seed blends cause?
Bird seed blends with a mix of large and small seeds often separate out. The larger pieces fall off while the smaller seeds stick, leading to bare patches.
| Bird Seed Type | Good for Wreaths? |
|---|---|
| Millet | Yes |
| Nyjer or thistle | Yes |
| Finch mix | Yes |
| Sunflower kernels | No |
| Peanuts | No |
| Corn kernels | No |
| Mixed bird seed | No |
Creating the Wreath Too Early
It’s best to make bird seed wreaths 1-2 weeks before you plan to display them. Wreaths made too far in advance are more likely to fall apart.
Why shouldn’t you make them too far in advance?
Bird seed wreaths made more than 2 weeks before displaying can go bad because:
- Glue can dry out and begin to lose adhesion
- Seed can absorb moisture and expand, loosening the wreath
- Temperature changes can degrade materials
What is the ideal time frame for assembly and display?
Follow this ideal timeline:
- Assemble wreath 1-2 weeks before intended display date
- Hang wreath outside 1 week before display to allow elements to penetrate materials
- Display fully finished wreath outside
How should you store an early assembled wreath?
If you make a wreath further ahead of time, store it flat in a cool, dry indoor location until 1-2 weeks before display. Avoid temperature extremes and moisture.
Hanging the Wreath Wrong
Bird seed wreaths need to be hung correctly in order to maintain their shape and integrity. Here are some tips on proper hanging methods:
Why shouldn’t it hang flat against a surface?
Laying flat against a wall or door allows moisture to be wicked into the back of the wreath, weakening adhesion and causing the seed to fall off.
Should it hang on an angle or flat side down?
The wreath should hang at a 45 degree angle or with the flat side facing down to prevent moisture damage on the backside.
What hanging materials work best?
Use wire, string, or a hook so air can circulate behind the wreath. Avoid adhesives or tacks pressed against the surface.
| Hanging Method | Recommended? |
|---|---|
| Flat against door or wall | No |
| 45 degree angle | Yes |
| Facing down | Yes |
| Wire or string | Yes |
| Adhesive tack | No |
Exposing It to Moisture
Since bird seed wreaths contain natural materials, exposure to moisture can cause them to deteriorate and fall apart.
How does moisture damage bird seed wreaths?
Moisture can cause issues like:
- Making seeds swell and weaken adhesion
- Dissolving glue
- Promoting mold growth
- Rotting the base wreath materials
How much rain or snow exposure is too much?
The wreath should not be left exposed to heavy rain, snow, or other precipitation for extended periods. Take the wreath inside during lengthy wet weather.
How often should it be re-sealed?
Reapply a protective sealer every 1-2 years to renew waterproofing as needed.
Using a Low Quality Wreath Base
Choosing a flimsy or unsuitable base wreath can also cause bird seed wreaths to deteriorate prematurely.
What base wreath materials work best?
Good options include:
- Grapevine wreaths
- Straw wreaths
- Plastic mesh wreaths
Why avoid paper mache or cardboard?
Paper wreath forms can warp or fall apart when exposed to moisture. Plastic, straw, or grapevine have much better durability.
Should the form be new or used?
A brand new base wreath is best. Old, misshapen, or previously used wreaths may not offer enough support.
Conclusion
Bird seed wreaths can fall apart prematurely for a variety of reasons. Using the wrong materials, assembly methods, or display techniques often leads to failure. Follow the recommendations in this article to get a long lasting bird seed wreath that holds its shape through changing weather conditions.
