Question
I finally identified these balls and wonder if they serve any other purpose beside reseeding.  I had an Amish friend who told me they keep spiders away once placed inside the basement or garage of your home, is this true?

Answer
Hi Beth,
Thanx for you question.  I can find no information that indicates that sycamore seed balls are effective at keeping spiders away.  This was said about hedge apples or osage oranges.  My mom used to bring them home from my aunt's farm.  I didn't notice they were effective at all.  Sycamore fruit balls?  Seed only.  I hope this helps.
Tom