The seeds of crops (and other plants important to humans) are transported around the world by people. The seeds of wild plants have their own ways of being dispersed. Some spiky seeds are dispersed by the animals, birds or even car tyres they stick on to, some seeds are dispersed by the wind and some seeds are shot out of their pods by the plant when they are ripe. The scotch thistle is a wild plant whose seeds are dispersed by the wind, and here is its story.

A Scotch-Thistle's Story

by Aidan Cousins, Surrey Downs Primary School, South Australia

"Oh, Look!"
"Where? Where?"
"Over there! It's a 'Father Christmas Beard'! Lets make a wish!"

These are the words I dreaded as a seed. I mean, all I had to do is simply get blown from my mum, soar through the wind, find some good earth and settle down. The last thing I wanted was for some small human beings to come and 'make a wish.' Luckily I know a trick or two.

WHOOSH! Up I went.

"Oh!" I heard a small human say as I was lifted high in the air.

Finally I settled down and got growing. Oh sorry, I forgot to tell you who I am, I am Steve the Scotch-Thistle and within a few days I will become mature enough to grow my large thistles, making me practically invincible - except if I come across some one with thick padded removable hands or feet.

I have settled down in a place I believe is called Selliks Beach. I am on the cliffs where there are spectacular views.
Oh no! I hear someone coming... On bikes!
VOOM! That's one.

BUMP! BUMP! BUMP! "LUKE!" There goes another. For some reason they had towels slung over their shoulders, I guess I'll never know why.

HALF AN HOUR LATER

"Quick or else we'll be late!"
Oh-no not them!
VOOM! There's the first one.
"Luke! Wait for me!"
Does that boy have something wrong with his legs or something?
"Wait, a Scotch-Thistle."

NOOOOO!

KICK!

Well I'm off again!