A hashtag that includes emojis of a seedling, flower, and bee has amassed more than 50 million views on TikTok. The tag is a nod to the trend known as 'flower bombing,' a form of guerilla gardening where native wildflower seeds are planted in unoccupied public spaces. The purpose is to promote biodiversity, re-establish native plants, and disrupt urbanism.
"When you are young, full of ideals and just want to make a difference – the idea of tossing a little [flower] bomb that will take on a life of its own, I think, is appealing," said Keith Homer, a Utah-based landscaper and high school teacher.
A decrease in roadless areas results in less biodiversity, as flora and fauna lose their habitats to road development. This then leads to pollution and human interactions, such as vehicle collisions with animals due to increased traffic.
Homer said he has done his own share of guerilla gardening, recalling one occasion when he planted extra tulips in his neighbor's backyard under the cover of night. "[My neighbor's] wife went on and on about the miracle of these tulips popping up, and she was crying because she thought it was a miracle," he said.
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