The elf has left something to look forward to after Christmas. 🌼
A real packet of flower seeds is hiding inside his festive envelope, ready for a springtime planting day.
This elf goodbye idea gives the children something to grow and enjoy after their visitor has gone home.
What you’ll need:
- One official Elf on the Shelf doll (paid link)
- A real packet of dwarf sunflower seeds (paid link)
- Scrap paper or an envelope, a pen and tape
Setup:
Make a Christmas sleeve or envelope big enough to hold the unopened seed packet. Draw stars, holly or a tiny elf hat on the front and write “Something to grow — with love from your elf”. Slip the real packet inside so its variety name and sowing instructions stay with the seeds.
Sit your elf against a small supported box beside the festive packet. Add a goodbye note: “I’m going home, but here’s a little bit of sunshine for your garden. Save these for our spring planting day!”
After Christmas, put the packet somewhere dry with your gardening things. Follow its instructions when the sowing season arrives. The linked dwarf sunflower seeds are listed for March–May sowing; there is no need to plant them on Christmas Eve. The children can decorate a pot or plan where their flowers will grow while they wait.
Make it cheaply:
Use a suitable seed packet you already have and make its Christmas sleeve from an old envelope or leftover wrapping paper. Keep the original sowing instructions tucked inside. A single inexpensive packet is enough for the scene; there is no need to buy a growing kit.
Browse more elf goodbye and leaving ideas for your next scene.
