How Do Plantable Name Badges Work?
You’ve probably heard about plantable name badges, but how exactly do they work? Can you really plant them and grow something? (Spoiler alert: Yes!)
Terra Tag’s seed-infused name badges aren’t just eco-friendly alternatives to plastic—they’re designed to leave no waste behind. Instead of tossing them after an event, attendees can plant them and watch flowers, herbs, or native plants grow!
Here’s everything you need to know about how they work, how to plant them, and what makes them the ultimate sustainable event badge. 🌱
What Are Plantable Name Badges?
Plantable name badges are made from handcrafted seed paper, a special type of biodegradable paper embedded with real seeds. When planted in soil, the paper breaks down naturally, allowing the seeds to germinate and grow into flowers, herbs, or native plants.
Unlike traditional name badges, which end up in landfill, these badges are 100% compostable, recyclable, and plantable—meaning they don’t just disappear, they transform!
Bonus: Terra Tag’s seed paper is made from rescued business, government and school waste, so it’s upcycled before it even reaches you!
What Seeds Are Inside Terra Tag’s Badges?
Terra Tag’s plantable badges are embedded with bee-friendly, non-GMO seeds, selected for Australian conditions.
🌿 Lemon-Scented Bottlebrush (Callistemon citrinus) – A native plant that attracts pollinators.
🌱 Herb Mix (Oregano, Parsley, Thyme) – Great for kitchen gardens.
🌸 Flower Mix (Swan River Daisy, Forget-Me-Not, Alyssum) – Adds colour to any garden.
No invasive species here! Every seed we use is eco-friendly, ensuring your badge grows, not harms.
How to Plant Your Name Badge (Step-by-Step Guide)
Ready to turn your badge into a plant? Here’s how!
Step 1: Prepare Your Planting Area
🌱 Choose a pot or garden bed with good drainage.
🌍 Use nutrient-rich soil (avoid compacted or clay-heavy areas).
Step 2: Tear the Badge into Small Pieces
✂️ Gently tear the seed paper badge into small pieces (this helps seeds spread evenly).
Step 3: Place the Pieces in Soil
🪴 Lay the torn badge on top of the soil and lightly cover it with about 3mm of soil.
💦 Don’t bury it too deep—seeds need sunlight to sprout!
Step 4: Water Generously
🚿 Water thoroughly after planting, making sure the soil is damp but not flooded.
💧 Keep the soil consistently moist for the first two weeks.
Step 5: Find the Perfect Spot
☀️ Sunlight matters! Different seeds need different amounts, but most do best in indirect to full sunlight.
Step 6: Watch It Grow!
🌱 Germination begins within 7–21 days, depending on seed type and conditions.
🌼 Once sprouted, continue watering regularly and enjoy your eco-friendly event memento!
How Long Do Seed Paper Badges Last?
Before Planting
Seed viability lasts up to 2 years, so attendees don’t have to rush to plant them!
Store in a cool, dry place until ready to plant.
After Planting
Germination happens within 1–3 weeks, depending on water and sunlight.
Once established, plants continue growing naturally, just like any other plant!
Pro Tip: If guests can’t plant their badge, they can still compost or recycle it—no landfill waste!
What If I Can’t Plant My Badge? (Other Disposal Options)
Not everyone has a garden, but that’s okay! Here’s what to do if you can’t plant it:
🌿 Compost it – The paper will break down naturally in home compost.
♻️ Recycle it – Unlike traditional badges, seed paper is fully recyclable.
🌱 Gift it – Give it to a friend, school, or community garden for planting!
The key takeaway? Whether you plant it, compost it, or recycle it, your badge won’t go to waste.
Why Are Plantable Name Badges Better Than Other Sustainable Options?
There are other eco-friendly badge alternatives, but here’s how seed paper stacks up:
Why Choose Terra Tag Recycled Badges? ♻️
If you need a completely recyclable option or your event is in TAS or WA (where seed paper is restricted), our recycled badges are the best sustainable choice. They decompose quickly and are fully assembled for easy event setup.
Making Events More Sustainable with Plantable Badges
Why More Companies Are Switching to Terra Tag
🌿 They align with corporate sustainability goals – No plastic, no waste, just green impact.
💚 They create a lasting experience – Attendees remember your event every time they see their new plant!
♻️ They eliminate post-event waste – No more bins full of plastic sleeves and lanyards.
So, how do plantable name badges work? They start as an event essential and end as a plant. 🌱 Instead of waste, they leave behind flowers, herbs, or native plants—making them the most sustainable event badge available.
Want to go green at your next event?
Check out our plantable name badges or recycled name badges and start planning a waste-free event!
