Green Witchcraft - April 2020 by Witchology Magazine

Wild Goddess Magick

Witchology Magazine Honoring Nature in Your Practice

Connecting with

Deities

Green Witchcraft

Cosmic Botany for

through Gardening

Peace, Happiness, and Abundance

YOUR GUIDE TO APRIL

Getting Started With the Fae

ASTROLOGY AND THE LYRID METEOR SHOWER

EDITORIAL Ambrosia Hawthorn, Owner & Editor Sarah Justice, Co-Editor WRITERS & CONTRIBUTORS Miss Wondersmith, Hazel of Hex Tarot, Josie Hellbore, Gillian Pegg, Mike Sexton, Karla Freeling, Vivacia Ahwen. ART & PHOTOS Cover: Ambrosia Hawthorn All other photos are from free stock sources, Adobe Stock, or from contributors. SALES ambrosia@witchologymagazine.com SUBMISSIONS ambrosia@witchologymagazine.com sarah@witcologymagazine.com www.witchologymagazine.com/ submissions-ads/ SOCIAL www.witchologymagazine.com www.instagram.com/witchologymag www.twitter.com/wgmagick www.facebook.com/witchologymag Copyright © 2019 by Wild Goddess Magick. All rights reserved. This magazine or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the publisher except for the use of brief quotations in a book review. Magazine is intended for ages 18 and up. We are a proud participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. All our content is reviewed and vetted in the process. The opinions expressed in our published works are those of the authors and do not reflect the opinions of Witchology Magazine or Wild Goddess Magick. Witchology Magazine assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed or incomplete information, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon.

elcome!

“These words herein are from me to you, each picture, thought, and quote we imbue. This issue reflects the knowledge I have to share, use each spell, ritual, and work with care.”

April brings energy of change, balance, and planning. While it is also a forced time of social distancing and quarantine, focus inward on your home. You can start a garden, take up learning herbalism, connect with deity, get crafty in the kitchen, and explore Tarot or Astrology. No matter what your path is, there’s always something that can enrich and elevate your practice! Please also note: we cannot guarantee any outcomes from the content of this magazine, but please don't give up on the magick within you!

Blessed be witches,

Ambrosia Hawthorn

Wild Goddess Magick

Witchology Magazine

Cover by Ambrosia Hawthorn @wildgoddessmagick

Our Witchy Team 1

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1. Ambrosia Hawthorn @wildgoddessmagick Witchologymagazine.com Editor, published author, illustrator, and eclectic witch. 2. Sarah Justice @tinycauldron Tinycauldron.com Co-Editor, writer, and shop owner. 3. Miss Wondersmith @misswondersmith Thewondersmith.com Contributor, wondersmith, recipe creator, forager, and event hostess.

4. Karla Freeling @wiccanology Wiccanology.etsy.com Contributor, mother in the military, Pagan, and shop owner. 5. Mike Sexton @artistmikes Mikesextonstudio.com Contributor, eclectic Wiccan, artist, and published author. 6. Josie Hellebore @hillcountrybruja hillcountrybruja.etsy.com Contributor, witch, writer, creator, curator, and shop owner.

7. Gillian Pegg @gillianmoragivy @pegggillian Contributor, witch, and writer. 8. Hazel @hex_tarot Hextarot.bigcartel.com Contributor, witch, and professional Tarot and palm reader. 9. Vivacia Ahwen @sheraprincess Msvivacia.wordpress.com Witch, astrologer, healer, romance author, and artist.

APRIL 6 What’s New in the Witchy Community 7 Witches Supporting Witches 8 April Magickal Workings 14 April Astrology Forecast 18 April Tarot Spread 54 Witchology Directory

FEATURES 20 Connecting With Deities Through Gardening 22 Coping With Deity Cosmic Botany 25 A Green Witch’s 30 Herbal Remedies for Everyday Ailments Getting Started With 33 Plant Identification 39 A Lesson From the Fae

MAGICKAL LEARNING

9 How to use Witchcraft for Balance 10 Garden Witchery for Beginners 19 How to Honor Nature in Your Practice 37 How to use the Earth in Your Practice 38 Intro to Faery Folklore 44 Planting by the Moon 48 Monthly Herb: Echinacea 49 April Full Moon Energy

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MAGICKAL RECIPES 50 Elderflower Rhubarb Fairy Cake

What’s New in the

Witchy Community

Want to know what’s happening in the Pagan community? Well, we’ve searched high and low to bring you the latest releases.

Seasons of Wicca: The Essential Guide to Rituals and Rites to Enhance Your Spiritual Journey

The Complete Guide to Astrology: Understanding Yourself, Your Signs, and Your Birth Chart By Louise Edington Astrology has been used for thousands of years to help predict upcoming events, interpret the meaning of life, and interact more effectively with other people. Whether you’re new to the field, or have long been looking to the sky for answers, The Complete Guide to Astrology is the perfect way to understand how your stars align. Start with the basic elements of astrology like the signs, modalities, and houses. Then, learn how these factor specifically into your own birth chart. From there, detailed charts give you further insight into how to make conscious choices to live up to your highest potential. Available on Amazon.

By Ambrosia Hawthorn Rooted in nature, spiritualism, and a reverence for the divine, Wicca is a religious practice focused on the balance and harmony between life and nature. Seasons of Wicca offers practical guidance and empowering rites and rituals that will bring the magic of Wicca into your daily life. Discover the origins of Wicca with an overview covering the importance of working with nature and the deities. Explore in-depth primers on the Wheel of the Year and the crucial purposes of the elements, and embark on your own spiritual path with step-by-steps for Sun Celebrations, Moon Celebrations, and Wiccan Rites. Available May 12, 2020 on Amazon.

Herb Magic: An Introduction to Magical Herbalism and Spells By Patti Wigington Herbal magic is a powerful method of inviting protection, love, health, and wealth into your life―it can even aid you in finding guidance through divination. Perfect for fresh and seasoned herbalists alike, Herb Magic is your easy-to-digest guide to magical herbalism, introducing you to the spiritual side of herbs and how to use them in folkloric spells and rituals. Dive into magical herbalism with a reader-friendly overview of this old-world magic belief system, including advice on the best time to practice, building an altar, and setting intentions. Learn about the healing properties of dozens of sacred herbs, how to unlock their power, and magical uses before exploring 75 easy-to-follow spells and rituals, including simplified magic for the witch on the go. Availiable on April 21, 2020 on Amazon. 6

Make It Rain Money Draw Candle $15.00 HillCountryBruja

Witches Supporting Witches Check out the latest creators, shops, collections, and more for this month!

Tarot Reading Â£30.00 HexTarot

Green Magic Spell Book Enamel Pin $10.00 ThePicketyWitchShop Green Witch Sticker Pack $14.24 aianaiyaillustration

APRIL MAGICKAL WORKINGS April is a wonderful month to work with the element of earth, garden witchery, and connecting to the world around you. Get started in herbalism with our herb of the month (pg. 48) or practice kitchen witchery with this monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recipe of Fairy Cake (pg. 50). For rituals and spells, focus on change, balance, emotions, and planning. Do this along the cycles of the moon or planetary transits (pg.16).

How To Use Witchcraft For Balance L

iving in a state of balance is incredibly important to having a harmonious life. But, especially in these modern times, balance can be tough to find. Luckily, nature is always there for us. Trusting in the energy of nature to help ground us is one of the best ways to reset that state of balance in your life. One of the oldest forms of magick, green witchcraft, is one way to help. The practice is one that can be done alone, which means that you can walk the path on your own time, in your own way. It focuses on finding and maintaining balance not only with yourself but also with the earth and with humanity. Simply sitting outside in nature and listening to the quiet can rebalance many of the things that feel off inside of us on a daily basis.

There are also spells and other magickal workings that can help our emotions to feel more balanced in our day- to- day lives. The following is only one example of many, and each magickal practitioner should go with what feels right for him or her. A key to balance is trusting yourself. To start off, try to think of areas of your life that are currently feeling out of balance. This can go either way, either feeling like you’re too focused on something or that you’d like to attract more of something to your life. Then, select two opposing colors of a thicker thread. Try to choose colors that relate to either category (red for love, purple for health and bravery, green for money, for example). Ground and center yourself, and cast a circle if you feel it necessary. Try to do this spell out in nature as well, if at all possible, to allow all of the natural elements to help strengthen that sense of balance. With one thread, focus on what you believe you have too much of in your life. Feel how that feels and mentally project those feelings into the thread. Then, with the other thread, focus on what you want to attract more of. Once you’re finished, braid them together to form a bracelet. Tie it around your wrist or ankle to remind yourself that life is often a give-and-take but, when we balance and work together with those things instead of in opposition, we can succeed and obtain more of a sense of peace.

Garden Witchery for Beginners By Josie Hellebore

rom a very young age, I have felt drawn to plants and nature. My earliest attempts at witchcraft as a teenager included combining dried herbs and flowers and making my own incense with them. I was always getting into trouble for lighting these blends on fire in my bedroom when my mother would smell the smoke. As I have grown in age and in my craft, plants have become more central to my practice than ever. For many years, I grew herbs and singular vegetable plants in containers on my porch due to living in rentals and not having the ability or space for a full in-theground garden. In 2018, that changed for me when my husband and I bought our house. The backyard was huge, which was a major buying point for us.

We decided we would use the space to build a large garden and to raise a few hens so that we could have fresh produce and eggs. Over the next 2-years, I began experimenting with g rowing herbs and vegetables in the ground and implementing those plants into my witchcraft. Some of the ways that I do that is by charging the plants Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve grown with magickal intent and then using them in dishes for my family. Good old-fashioned kitchen witchery! One of my favorite creations to make is what I call Abundance Apple Butter. For this recipe, I bless all ingredients with the intent of attracting an abundance of blessings and prosperity to anyone who consumes it. This works especially well because

many of the ingredients used in apple butter have magickal correspondences associated with prosperity and money attraction. Truly, you could do this with any recipe for apple butter that you find, or you could create your own. I opted to find a couple of recipes on Pinterest that I really liked and combined my favorite parts of both. When working with herbs and plants for any magick, but especially kitchen magick, it is important to be cognizant and aware of the allergies of others and disclose any and all ingredients to them prior to consumption. Also, remember to use food-grade herbs and plants. My approach to garden witchery is intuitive in nature. What I mean by that is, if I cannot find a traditional, magickal

correspondence to the vegetation I am growing, I simply assign my own. For instance, at one point in history, tomatoes were said to be “the devil’s fruit” and were believed to be a main ingredient in the famous “flying ointment” that witches used to give their broomsticks the ability to fly. If only that were true! I decided that to me, tomatoes signify protection. By growing them, I am using them to protect my home, and when using them in dishes, I am using them to protect my family and friends who eat them. This correspondence could be translated to any vining plant or vegetable. Sometimes you will find that the vegetables you are growing have been used for many years in witchcraft and already have an assigned magickal 12

correspondence, for example, okra is used in spiritual baths to remove curses, hexes, and to perform “uncrossing” spells. If you have ever boiled okra, I don’t have to tell you that it is a very slimy ordeal. The slime in the bath, although, unpleasant, allows the baneful magick to “slide off” of the recipient. Healers have used okra in this manner for hundreds of years. Adjacently, the same concept can be implemented when using okra in kitchen witchery. My backyard is very rocky with small caliche gravel mixed into the earth, creating a minor barrier to gardening. To remedy this, my husband and I put five raised beds in and filled those with organic material and soil to create a nutrientrich environment for growing.

In my personal garden, I am currently growing several varieties of peppers, both sweet and hot. Hot peppers can be used in hot foot oils and powders, or to add “heat”, speed or passion to any spell. I typically like to use sweet peppers to “sweeten up” a person or a situation, much like a honey jar spell. In my raised bed where I grow my tomatoes, I also grow basil and garlic. This is a form of companion planting where you use plants to help protect and thwart pests. The basil and garlic repel mildew, unwanted fungus, and hornworms, all of which are detrimental to tomatoes. In turn, both the garlic and basil have their own magickal correlations. Basil can be used in prosperity, protection, and happy home spells.

Garlic can be used to repel energies, negative attachments, and the “evil eye.” Pumpkins and squash are a staple in my garden. Squash of any variety can be used as a vessel for a multitude of purposes in spellcrafting, from protection and healing to hexing and binding. You can fill it like you would a poppet and bury it, or use it to burn candles in. I use small pumpkins called Jack Be Little pumpkins in a prosperity working I do every year on New Year’s Eve for myself, loved ones, and my community. This year, I am growing several strawberry plants and have plans to create a jam or jelly from them to be used for love, romance, and fertility.

When I began planning my garden this year to be as large as it is, I had no idea that we would be facing the current dire circumstances that we are in society today. I wanted to grow my own food for my family, friends, and maybe a little bit extra to sell at a local farmer’s market. I never would’ve dreamed that my garden would be a backup plan for myself and my community as a food source. I have shared before that I believe witches are inherent healers. In the face of adversity, witches rise to the occasion and provide healing and assistance in any way we are able. For me, I find myself in a unique position to be able to contribute fresh produce and fresh eggs to my loved

ones and neighbors in the coming months. Food supplies may become limited, especially in terms of produce. I feel a personal to ready responsibility myself to help my community in any way possible should it come to that. There are so many possibilities within the realm of garden witching. These are just a few to help inspire others to explore this amazing modality of magick. It has become my favorite form of spellcrafting. I feel my spirit heightens this time of year as I deeply connect with earth and nature. My hope is for others to enjoy this same experience. Many blessings and happy garden witching!

ASTROLOGY:

April 2020: Birdsong and Dew By Vivacia Ahwen

“A gush of bird-song, a patter of dew, a cloud, and a rainbow’s warning, Suddenly sunshine and perfect blue—an April day in the morning. ~“April,” From Harriet Prescott Spofford’s 1835 collection Poems.

t’s April, and the galaxy is peacocking for our pleasure. Not only are we blessed with the longer days, sweeter breezes, warmer temperatures, gentle rains, and budding branches of every spring, but the heavens are ablaze in light and glory. From April 16-25 the Lyrid meteor shower pays a visit. Expect ten to fifteen meteors per hour to brighten our sky, minimum. While not always predictable, Lyrids have surges bringing the rate up to 100 meteors per hour! Peak viewing hours are the darkest just before dawn on April 22. Grab a blanket, find an empty field, and enjoy the show. Invite a spirit buddy for an early morning picnic in the dark. Make wishes on brilliant Vega, whom we have to thank for the panoramic display. As though the meteor show wasn’t a gift enough, “I saw it written and heard it say/ pink moon is on its way.” Like Gemini Nick Drake sang, the pink moon brings

out our emotional fragility on April 8. Under her silvery pink illumination, drawback your power and prepare for your new forward path to reveal itself. This month, you’ll be faced with some unexpected choices, but you’re ready. Go big or go home. How can we do anything less with Jupiter conjunct Pluto stirring the pot? Astrologically speaking, April’s going to be intense. Stars and planets take us on a roller coaster ride the which we haven’t seen since November 2019. Buckle up, buttercup. April 3 Mercury Conjunct Neptune. Heightened senses and information overload make discerning important details from the background noise difficult. Give in to the sensitivity of those around you, as you’ve got the power of connectivity on your side. With Venus in Gemini, expect a rush of some passionate sex magick. It’s

hard to commit to formal plans today, so keep it loose. Be open to running with a different social circle. April 4 Jupiter Conjunct Pluto: Make the most of today, as this astrological formation only returns on June 30 and N o v e m b e r 1 2 . Yo u r passions are turbocharged with positivity, ambition, and opportunity. As the most beneficial planet, Jupiter rewards us when we chase down our dreams with utmost determination. Time for self-improvement, exploring new possibilities, and giving in to optimism. Venus trine Saturn makes way for you to keep a level head in the midst of all that mental stimulation. Direct that energy toward achieving career and personal goals. With Venus smiling upon you, keep those peepers open for a significant someone to cross your path, with whom you’ll develop either a connection vital to both of your 2020 personal growth.

April 7 Mercury sextile Jupiter and Pluto. You’re feeling quite tolerant of others’ c h a l l e n g i n g b e h a v i o r, offering extra empathy with what would make you blow a head gasket on another day. Choose your words with care. People are listening with open minds, and you’re very convincing right now. Tonight, take some time alone to explore the mysterious side of your mind, as your powers of interpretation and understanding are especially high.

unharmonious interfering with your development. Internalize the power and beauty of the pink moon. Unlock your inner treasure box of magical gifts.

Also, Mars square Uranus invites inner tension, as you’re wishing for both security and freedom to step away from your traditional path…and that’s okay. With Mars’ grounding energy and the liberating qualities of Uranus, it’s safe to walk the line between the seen and unseen.

April 14 Sun square Pluto. After three days of intense exchanges, take time to recharge. Be a guilt-free hermit! Take long naps. Yo u ’ r e r e n e w i n g y o u r vitality, recommitting to yourself and pulling back some of the psychic energy you’ve been sharing.

April 8 Full Moon in Libra. Expect major relationship changes, most for the better. As though a full moon in Libra wasn’t compelling enough, it’s our second – and last— supermoon of 2020. Give in to the urge to complete a cycle of growth or creative project, and banish anything

April 15 Sun square Jupiter. Uhoh…today you’re feeling decadent, so watch your “overs.” Try not to overdo things, overspend, or overindulge. Don’t overpromise and underdeliver. Go to bed early and stay the heck away from Amazon.

April 11 Mercury sextile Saturn, e n t e r s A r i e s . Yo u ’ r e focused and your judgment is spot on. It’s a fine time to sign paperwork or make long-term plans. Be assertive, straight-up, and get to the point in your conversations. You are dynamic and will not take no for an answer.

April 18 Mercury sextile Mars and Venus. You are so on, assuming you didn’t give in t o a l l o f y e s t e r d a y ’s temptations. You’re sharpminded, spunky, and feeling strong. It’s easy to turn on the Venusian charm and don’t shy away from the spotlight. Remember the movie Limitless? You’re a total Brian Finch under this planetary influence. April 20 Sun enters Taurus. Happy birthday, Bulls! Not a bull? You can still tap into the sweet Taurean energy over the coming month. They’re methodical, determined, sensual, and generous to a fault. Shadow side? Taureans resist change, struggle with insecurity, and possessiveness is their Achilles tendon. Don’t give into that nonsense. Lend a helping hand if you see a suffering bull, pay a compliment, and offer a tasty snack. Taurus loves fine food and all the wine. April 21 Sun square Saturn indicates plenty of challenges to overcome, tests to pass, lessons to learn. Don’t let your head be turned from matters at hand or the work that needs to be completed.

ASTROLOGY: April 2020: Birdsong and Dew

Ignore criticism and unsolicited advice. Cast a protective circle, hold your chin up high, and own the day. A patriarchal authority f i g u r e ’s o v e r b e a r i n g behavior could throw off your rhythm, but only if you allow for it. April 22 New Moon in Taurus. Thank the heavens, a new beginning is just what the human race needs. Planting today of what you want to manifest in your life. Make the most of your new moon ritual by literally plant seeds while whispering goals and dreams. If it’s too cold outside, transplant an indoor herb garden on May 22. As the seeds sprout and grow under the waxing Ta u r e a n m o o n , y o u r intentions come to fruition. Be mindful to water your seedlings over the coming days. Sing to them if you like. April 25 Pluto retrograde in Capricorn. We’ve had more than enough of the status quo. Authority figures are called to the carpet and hidden agendas are exposed. The cosmos calls upon the downtrodden to rise and lead, while those who exploited them are held to task. Uprising happens

on both local and national levels. Don’t give in to paranoia or fear; trust in the process. Release what holds you back; it’s time to rechoreograph the dance of life. Mercury square Pluto intensifies interaction and mental exploration. Be direct when expressing your needs, yet diplomatic. Dictatorship has had its day in the sun. April 26 Mercury square Jupiter and Sun conjunct Uranus calls for a philosophical approach and focus, focus, focus. Be aware of how you come across during interactions; in the midst of collective enlightenment, it’s hard not to get cocky. You’re craving sunshine and liberation. Expect breakthroughs in spiritual, mental, and emotional realms. Oh, the times, they are a-changin’. April 27 Mercury enters Taurus and communication gets real. After two days of mad leaps forward, plans must be put into action. Cautiousness and deliberation are necessary but don’t get so lost in the details that can halt completion.

ASTROLOGY: April 2020: Birdsong and Dew

April 28 Mercury square Saturn, a n d t h e r e ’s s o m e b i g challenges to overcome. Be compassionate with yourself. Reach out, talk, share, process. A trustworthy mentor reveals themselves to you. Be inspired by, not jealous of, others if life seems to come easily to them. Be humble enough to ask how they make mastery look effortless. Share what glorious gifts you have as well. We are stardust; we are golden. April 30 April ends with Mercury conjunct Uranus. All you learned over the past month c o m e s t o g e t h e r. T h e vibrational level is high, so if you find yourself “escalating,” don’t forget your yoga breaths. There’s electricity in the air, and unexpected news arrives. Don’t jump to conclusions about outcomes. Allow the universe to work her magic. For inspiration, read Michael J. Gelb’s Think Like Leonardo DaVinci. Use your keen intuition and brilliant insight to create something beautiful.

April Astrology Correspondences Tarot: The Hierophant V Elements: Water and Air Deities: Cernunnos, Ishtar, and Venus Stones: Clear quartz, opal, and angelite Plant Magick: Dandelion, milkweed, dogwood, fennel, and dill Colors: Crimson, bright yellow, and teal Affirmation: All is well, and all manner of things will be well.

April Tarot Spread 1. What feelings or emotions are coming up for me right now? 2. What feelings or emotions am I burying right now? 3. How can I harness these emotions in my life? 4. How can I better balance my emotions currently?

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How to Honor Nature In Your Practice N

ature is one of the keystones of any witch’s practice. The heart of most Pagan traditions starts, first and foremost, with recognizing the importance of earth, air, fire, and water. Without them, none of us would be alive. Because of that, it is imperative that we honor nature in all of our practices. This can start with the way we set up our shrines and altars. By making sure that we have each element represented, we can honor nature in a more physical, direct way. • Earth: A flower, twig, or stone is a great way to honor this element. • Air: Feathers or incense can pay homage to the element of air. • Fire: While candles are an obvious choice, you can also honor fire with a wand. • Water: For water, seashells or a small bowl of water is perfect. Instead of walking by your shrine or altar every day, stop for a few minutes and say a few words of thanks to each element for allowing you to live another day. Nature walks are another great way to show your respect. Without distraction,

simply head out into nature and just be present. Really hear the wind as it rushes through the trees, feel the dirt under your feet (take your shoes off if it’s safe, even), smell but don’t pick the flowers. Don’t bring anyone with you, and don’t listen to music. Spend this time like your ancestors would have, enjoying and appreciating the beauty of what we have around us. We also honor nature when we eat in a seasonal, natural way. With every bite of a strawberry in June or an apple in the fall, we allow nature to nourish us from the inside out. When you eat, try to be mindful of this fact and say a brief word of thanks to nature for providing you with the ability to stay healthy. Take your time eating as well, chewing slowly and really tasting every bite. You may also consider planting your own garden, starting a compost pile, or starting to put food out for the birds and animals that live near your home. Nature is all around us but, unfortunately, our busy lifestyles usually lead to our not honoring and appreciating it as much as we should. By spending time in nature and showing our gratitude for all it allows us to have, we honor it as our ancestors did. So turn that phone off and get outside. Nature is calling!

Connecting with Deities Through Gardening 20

Connecting With Deities Through Gardening G

ardening is one of the best ways to connect directly with the earth and earth spirits. It allows us to experience those things on a very intimate, personal level. This makes gardening an incredibly powerful way to connect with deities and disconnect from our overwhelming, busy lives. One way to do this is by creating a garden to honor your specific pantheon. Nearly every god and goddess has specific plants, herbs, flowers, etc. that are associated with them. For instance, the Celtic goddess Brigid is strongly associated with beans, beech trees, juniper, dill, and alfalfa. Planting any of those in a garden honoring Brigid is a great way to honor and connect with her. Many deities are also associated with specific patterns. The Welsh goddess Cerridwen is associated with the number six, while the Roman goddess Concordia likes things shaped like a peace sign. Doing a little bit of research on what, if anything, the specific deities you plan to honor are related to can make the garden even more customized.

While there are much easier ways to invoke and connect with goddesses through gardening, we don’t want to leave the gods out. There are certain plants that are strongly associated with certain gods, which can be a great way to include both parts of your pantheon. Choose broccoli to honor Jupiter, Ivy for Osiris, or Willow for Mercury to bring their masculine energy into your garden. Shrines can also be built in pre-existing gardens as a way to connect with specific deities without having to redo the entire garden. The more natural the altar the better, so consider building out of twigs or stones if possible. Place anything that reminds you of the deity you are working with on it, trying to stay with as many natural products as possible. Once your garden or shrine is built, spend as much time in it as possible to commune with your deities. Sit quietly, meditate, and listen to what your garden and the deities have to say to you. You may be surprised by the wisdom they impart.

COPING WITH DEITY By Karla Freeling

n this world, there exists a myriad of deities spanning a wide variety of different religions. Because of this, I thought I would share some of the things I do that make it easier for me to connect and commune with the deity of my choice. One of the first steps I took down this path was to research this aspect of my craft. One of my favorite books is called Encyclopedia of Gods by Michael Jordan. This encyclopedia contains more than 2,500 entries of deities derived from both ancient and contemporary cultures. One of the things that attracted me to this book was that it does not generally include personalities regarded as demigods, demons, or mythical heroes. It’s an encyclopedia dedicated to only Gods and Goddesses. I frequently use the Encyclopedia of Gods as a general guide. After reading about a deity I find myself drawn to, I conduct further research using other reliable sources. An internal image begins to blend in my mind, and each piece of additional information furthers the depth and detail

in which I can imagine them. It is important to remember that others will likely have a different interpretation of a deity than you, and that’s okay! This is about building your own connection with that God or Goddess. For example, when I think of Hecate, in my mind’s eye, I see black, gold, and deep burgundy as her colors. When I think of Kali, I see different dark hues of purple. When I think of Amphitrite, I see dark blues, white, and dark browns. These are my own colors for these deities and my personal way of connecting with them. Once I begin to associate them with colors and crystals, I build little altars to honor them. I pray to them and talk to them all the time. Just like I would communicate with a friend. I set out offerings of fresh flowers, and I thank them for listening and kindly request their guidance with whatever could be going on -- that’s it! The only thing you need to connect with a deity is yourself. It doesn’t have to be an expensive or laborious pursuit unless you will it to be. I personally

love crystals, so I use them, and I am a flower enthusiast, so I love associating them with colors of flowers. It’s no secret that we are all currently going through some changes in our lives. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is real, and we could be affected by it for a prolonged period. This is the perfect time to connect with a deity of your choosing and to develop faith in the universe. Accepting the things you cannot change and embracing the chaos can be a truly freeing experience, and may yet lead to unexpected and welcome occurrences. My husband and I are both currently serving in the armed forces. We have a twenty month-old pretoddler, and I am almost nine months pregnant; I am due this month! I recently found myself overwhelmed with everything going on in our lives, and I requested a reduced work schedule f r o m m y s u p e r v i s o r. Unfortunately, my request was denied on the basis of insufficient manpower. A couple of days later, I found

Â© jozefklopacka / Adobe Stock

myself at the kitchen table having a heart-to-heart with the Triple Goddess herself. I told her everything. I spoke about how I felt and asked for her help and guidance in d e a l i n g w i t h l i f e ’s curveballs. That same day, I received a phone call from the hospital saying that there was a suspected COVID-19 case in one of the rooms adjacent to my daughter’s and that our family would be quarantined as a precaution until the individual could be tested. My husband and I were quarantined for five days until their results came back negative. Being quarantined might seem inconvenient to some, but it’s exactly what we needed. The universe had answered my call! In addition to that, the child care center closed temporarily to sanitize and review their protocols. The result? I was told I could stay home with my daughter until they reopened (all the while getting paid). I didn’t have to take leave or do much work from home. I could just be here for her and wait until the center reopened. It wasn’t until a couple of days later that it hit me. I

was more relaxed, I wasn’t in as much pain (pregnancyrelated), my thoughts were not racing, and I was spending quality bonding time with my daughter (I could feel us getting closer). I went from having half days denied to spending five full days with my family and two weeks with the one person I love more than anything in this world, my daughter. Instead of letting fear of this pandemic control me, I was grateful. I remembered the conversation I had with my deity, and I could not believe how blessed I was to have had that time. Was it the best of circumstances? No. Do I wish this virus never existed? Absolutely. But it’s okay to say that I am beyond grateful for the time I have gotten to spend with my family because not everyone is afforded the same opportunity. I am grateful to my deity for listening to me, and I do, beyond a shadow of a doubt, know she has been guiding me through this time and has been helping me emerge from yet another of life’s trials with all the grace and poise I know I am capable of.

Spirit Junkie If there was a high crystal council for ranking the best crystals, then spirit quartz would be number one. Spirit quartz became popular in 2001, like most millennials. In fact, it’s the quintessential millennial stone— sparkly, special, and full of wisdom beyond its years. Glittering faceted clusters that look like star particles surround terminated crystal formations to give it big cosmic energy. Each one is unique due to a gradient effect that produces a tonal range of purple, pink, peach, and white. Spirit quartz has a celestial heritage and its clusters hold ancient archives of universal knowledge. Being in the presence of one will put you into the spiritual flow and help you connect with the part of you that’s pure, loving, full of knowing, and understands that you are one with the universe. You may be drawn to watermelon begonia if you long for a deeper connection to all things because it pulls you in with celestial, earthy energy. Watermelon begonias have dewdrop-shaped leaves with variegated patterns that look like galaxies swirling into existence. Their dark green spirals begin at a central point and expand across the rounded leaves in perfect symmetry, giving off an energy of harmony, balance, and endless renewal. The wisdom of this design is echoed throughout all of nature and the universe. It’s amazing when you find these kinds of natural elements that reflect an entire macrocosm in their patterning.

8 * C O S M I C B O TA N Y

THE VIBE When you expand your spiritual awareness beyond the world around you, you start to feel connected to the entire universe and you elevate your daily experiences. Living in this state of wonder raises your vibration and makes you happier. Spirit quartz and watermelon begonia remind you to focus on your inner growth and guide you with loving energy. Watermelon begonia helps you recognize that there’s a sacred intelligence behind everything, and that there’s more to life than what you can see. When you’re ready to learn more, spirit quartz will help you understand energy, vibration, and how your thoughts and feelings shape your experiences. You will begin to look at your life in a different way, see the beauty and connectedness of everything, and take comfort in the fact that you are part of something greater and will always be guided.

A Green Witch’s Herbal Remedies for Everyday Ailments By Gillian Pegg

There are some herbs that every witch should keep in her garden. Below are my top picks for magickal herbs that can be grown in the smallest city windowsill, or in abundance at a forest witch’s plot. While these herbs are lovely to grow for everyday use, each is very potent with magick. Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) An anti-inflammatory, rosemary is an excellent remedy for sore joints. It can also be used to cleanse, and I like to use this herb in purification spells or rituals. A rosemary smudge stick can be made with a good handful of dried rosemary, tied together with sprigs of juniper and cedar to clear a home in the spring of stuffiness and welcome good energy. Lavender (Lavandula spp,) This herb is wonderful for calming restlessness and anxiety. Lavender’s natural scent is soothing and relaxing. The herb is versatile, as you can use it as a substitute for many other herbs. A lavender pillow mist can promote calm sleep and sweet dreams. In a small glass spray bottle, pour witch hazel until half full, about ten droplets of lavender essential oil, dried lavender flower sprigs, and fill the rest with water.

Clary sage (Salvia sclarea) Often associated with love, this herb’s magickal properties have been used in love potions for centuries. You can also plant this herb around your home for protection and cleansing. Create a self-love spell bundle to hang beside your mirror, by stuffing a small aromatherapy pouch with clary sage, rose quartz, and a talisman of your own power, which could be a lock of your hair or a small rolled-up note with your full name.

Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) A plant that helps with clarity, this herb is known for its ability to help with headaches. Using peppermint in aromatherapy can aid with nausea. I like to make a peppermint elixir, which is basically an iced peppermint tea with honey and lemon. To bring magick into the elixir, I stir clockwise eleven times,

as that's a number with significance to me. I then stir counterclockwise once for balance. Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) Mugwort is a lovely herb to use in divination work and can cause lucid dreaming. A mugwort bath can promote body healing and pain relief, while also providing an environment for deep meditation and divination. It can also help you remember your dreams or visions. Mugwort should not be used if you are pregnant. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) For those with troubled dreams or issues falling asleep, Valerian can be a lifesaver. This herb can also help bring about calm and a feeling of peace. A small aromatherapy sachet under your pillow can help protect against nightmares, and a tea made from the dried leaves, mixed with a little chamomile, is a perfect sleepy time brew. Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) Also known as purple coneflower, this herb is a beautiful plant to have in your witchy

garden. Echinacea enhances inner strength and gives courage, so it's a good plant to have around in times of hardship. Not only is it also effective in staving off colds, but echinacea makes a great salve for cuts or bug bites. Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) Known for the wisdom and protection it provides, the elderberry makes a lovely elixir to strengthen the immune system and provide a spiritual boost. Add rosehips, lemon, and rosemary to a pot of almost boiling water, let simmer for half an hour, mash, strain and add honey. To bring magick into the elixir, I stir clockwise eleven times, as that's a number with significance to me. I then stir counterclockwise once for balance. Extra: Spell jar recipe for calm Lavender, clary sage, chamomile, blue lace agate, and an affirmation on a small piece of paper (something you love about yourself; a small picture of someone who loves you; or a symbol that represents them drawn or written by you. Seal the jar, dip the lid in wax and leave it in a safe place that brings you comfort and peace.

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Getting Started With Plant Identification by Mike Sexton

I encourage all of you to try your hand at green witchery. It'll never get boring and you'll get so much out of it.

I don't know about where you live, but here in the Great Plains, we didn't have much of a winter season except in name. One day it was warm. The next day you needed two sweaters; it was a weird season, to say the least. But now that we're rolling into spring in the northern hemisphere, it's time to get started on your gardens and, for some, to hit the lakes too. The birds have begun to sing more, and I've had a couple of close calls with robins narrowly missing me when I take my dogs outside, so I know that spring is beginning.

Green grass is also sprouting in my yard, and even a tree or two are starting to grow. This is a great time to learn more about the local plants in your area, and not just the ones you tend to grow, but ones that are native to your area. For tech-savvy witches, try out an app that can help you identify plants. For those who might prefer the old-fashioned way of identification, grab a book on your local flora and fauna. By practicing identification, you gain first-hand knowledge of what's safe and what isn't.

What looks like a beautiful flower might be extremely toxic, and what looks to bean ugly plant could have a lo t of great healing benefits. I encourage everyone to try learning: • • • • • •

Local identification Medicinal benefits Foraging History of plants Practical uses Safety and dangers

When venturing out into nature, it's essential not to harm or over-harvest in your process. I teach those who are gung-ho about going all-natural that allnatural doesn't always equate to being safe. There are many plants we can use in our everyday lives.

Still, you also have to learn how plants could interact and interfere with prescription and overthe-counter medications and how they could interfere with any current health issues you may have. One herb that comes to mind is the very popular chamomile (Matricaria re c u t i t a ) . I l o v e chamomile. My mother was Catholic, but she was also a healer; she just didn't know it. Since I was old enough to remember, she'd use chamomile to help with things like eye i n f e c t i o n s , u r i n a r y infections and colds, and it always worked. I was her caregiver for around half my adult life before she passed away, and to this day, I use this particular plant a lot in my own healing work. Chamomile can also assist with digestive health, sleeping, skincare and anxiety, and it has

antioxidants and antiinflammatory benefits. However, I learned that not everyone could tolerate chamomile. Some might be allergic to the plant, as chamomile is a member of the daisy or aster plant family and it is a h i g h p o l l e n producer. Another popular plant is the delicious peppermint! Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) has so many uses. It can help with digestive upsets, headaches, freshening breath, clogged sinuses, and energy. So you'd think that it's perfectly harmless and that anyone can take it right? This would be very wrong! Peppermint oil is dangerous in children under three years old due to the menthol in the oil.

Even without toxicity findings, young children can experience u n k n o w n allergies or contact sensitivities to oils that could result in hives, rash, respiratory or complications. When advising about herbal remedies, I always make sure they understand the importance of research or seeking professional or clinical herbalists' help. I encourage all of you to try your hand at green witchery. It'll never get boring and you'll get so much out of it. You'll be able to share your knowledge with others so that the fantastic information out there isn't lost to the world we've built.

According to National Institutes of Health, you should never diffuse wintergreen, peppermint, or eucalyptus around infants or children under the age of 10.

How to use the Earth in Your Practice T

he earth element is one of four elements honored by the majority of Pagan practices worldwide. From the ground we stand on to the food we eat, the earth supports us every single day. Therefore, it continues to be an important element to bring into any practice.

magick. It also relates to abundance and growth, especially when it comes to crops. In fact, this is how our ancestors used to use it.

But how can you use the earth in your practice?

We also use earth in a way we may not always recognize - salt! In many traditions, salt is used to mark the sacred circle. In addition to using it this way, salt can also be placed on the altar in a small bowl.

The good news is that the options are only limited by your creativity. There are no right or wrong answers as long as you are honoring and respecting the earth.

Other things strongly associated with the earth that can be used in any magickal practice include crystals, seeds, soil, or small animal totems and statues.

A great way to use the earth is by starting a garden. Gardens can be made in the style of any specific magickal tradition, and to honor any gods or goddesses in your specific pantheon.

One last way to honor the earth is by paying homage to one of the oldest earth spirits, the fae. Leave out small bowls of butter or milk as an offering, or a flower garland. They also appreciate beer, candies and cakes, fruit, honey, and juice.

When planting a garden, make sure to focus on what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re doing. Feel the dirt as you lift it up, thank the seeds as you plant them. Plant herbs, flowers, fruits, and vegetables so that you can also allow the earth to provide you with nourishment and support from the inside as well. Earth can also be used in a more metaphorical way. The element of earth relates strongly to qualities like strength, stability, and security. This makes it great to invoke any protection

Faeries directly represent the spirit of the earth and can provide the household with protection and abundance. Be aware that they can also be feisty, which is why we appease them with offerings. The earth has been celebrated since the dawn of time. Spending time specifically honoring and working with this element can be very grounding, and connect you with your ancestors in a more direct way than ever before. 37

Intro To Faery Folklore F

aeries seem to be everywhere in popular culture. From Tinkerbell to miniature faery gardens, they have been made into adorable, tiny figures that sprinkle faery dust and fly around. Other names for faeries are “wee folk,” brownies, spirits, fae, or nymph. However, faeries have been around much longer than that. History isn’t exactly clear, but it can be traced back for at least several thousand years. There are stories about faeries from all around the globe, in nearly every single culture and on every single continent. Part of the problem with tracing the history is that much of faery folklore actually predates written history, being handed down by oral tradition instead. One common thread is that faeries are almost always attached to

the earth and ancestral elemental spirits. They are also generally supernatural entities that can cross between the mortal and the faery realm. A few of the popular types of fae are the merfolk, brownies gnomes, and pixies. Faeries are also usually in charge of both good and back luck. They can often be found befriending humans and will bring good luck if showered with gifts such as milk, honey, beer, and sweets. Good harvests and productive yields can be attributed to properly gifting the faeries around the fields and the home. An important thing to remember is that, if not treated properly, faeries can also bring bad luck in all areas of life. However, mainly because of Christian intervention, faeries are often demonized and turned

into angry banshees or mean tricksters. Beware of any faery folklore that seems to be particularly mean or vengeful, as it often has Christian influences meant to demean Pagan culture. However, it is important to note that the Fae are typically considered mischievous and tricky, and should not be interacted with unless one knows exactly what one is up against. Another important element of faery folklore is their ability to disguise themselves as either human or some kind of animal (commonly a deer). This is usually because they are trying to trick a human or trap them into some specific trade.

A Lesson From the Fae By Hazel of Hex Tarot

eyond the reach of Pagan faiths, faeries are often the stuff of fantasy, consigned to children’s books and Victorian fancies. Over the years, I have come to understand that the fae are much more complex and diverse beings. Their traditions and hospitality are as varied as our own. Working with the fae must not be taken lightly. These beings are custodians of the earth just as our Pagan ancestors would have been (as many of us witches are today). Over time, faeries and earth elementals have become distrusting of humans. Perhaps like me, you have a deeper knowledge or connection with faeries greater than their fictional characterization and would like to get to know them better. The earth is hot from the summer sun; my windows are open, a n d the air is thick and still. The window creaks as if being opened by an invisible arm, my bedroom door slams shut. I wake up half lucid. My home has been invaded. A troop of small cloaked fae are darting around my bedroom, dipping 40

in and out of the window frantically swooping, cat-like across my bed. Deeply annoyed, they are gathering energy they believe I have stolen. They pull my hair. A pixie is sitting on top of my window, laughing at me. Eventually, they leave, and I’m left feeling unsettled. I immediately realized my mistake. I live on moorland atop a very high hill, which is is full of ancient magick. Twelve mature silver birch trees surround my tiny home. That morning I’d been foraging. Among the blackberries and hazelnuts, I picked a basket full of the most delightful fly agaric mushrooms. I had intentions of decorating my altar for Mabon and thought these red-hatted ladies were the perfect addition. In doing so, I had upset the fae. W h a t I h a d f a i l e d t o understand is that fly agaric and silver birch trees have a symbiotic relationship, and so do their faerie folk. Silver birch produces moist wet soil conditions perfect for the fungi to grow; in turn, as the fly agaric decay, they produce sugar. The trees absorb this sugar through their

route systems, which they need to remain healthy during w i n t e r. E f f e c t i v e l y I ’ destabilized this cycle. I was guilty of over-harvesting, and failed to leave an offering in return. How could I be so mindless? The fae had no intention of allowing my mistake to go unchecked, and rightly so. Now more than ever, we can learn great lessons from these elemental beings. When we begin to work more closely with the fae in our homes and gardens, they can help attune us to the ancient wisdom of the p l a nt s a n d f l o w e r s t h e y support. In doing so, we also become custodians of other species who share our gardens and wider environment. Faeries are subtle, quiet beings. They dislike harsh, aggressive environments, bright light, and loud sounds of our artificial world. They prefer quiet, clean, and minimal environments that mirror the vibrations of the natural world. They will remove themselves if their habitats become polluted or noisy. Welcoming faeries and earth spirits into your life has its benefits.

Faeries have expansive, positive energy, bringing joy and harmony into a space. Working with faeries can soften our own vibrations as we tune into their energy. Earth elementals have a long folklore history of lifting depression and gloom of all kinds. Consciously being more mindful of these elemental spirits enables us to slow down to the rhythm of nature and release stress and anxieties. Attuning your home to faeries takes some effort. They prefer natural materials and soft natural light. The current trend for Hygge, which is the Danish art of cosines and comfort and Norwegian minimalism movement are very inviting for faeries. They find clutter overwhelming (a good point to note here is that clutter for humans isn’t great if we want t o s e e t h e f a e ) . I n m y experience, working with any elemental being requires a clear mind and spaces, so I am undistracted and can tune in to their world with more clarity. That’s not to say we or the fae can’t enjoy a bit of bling. Folklore presents the fae as lovers of shiny things, colored ribbon, and trinket.

Perhaps this is a romanticized version of the truth reimagined from the Pagan traditions of making offerings to these elementals. What is important is that the energy of an environment feels clear. Electrical equipment is likely to frighten faeries and disrupt their energy. It’s best to place your altar or offering plate in a quieter corner of your home. Introducing the fae to your outdoor space is ideal. A suitable space should be clean of chemicals, GMOs, pollution, and aggressive pets. Yes, including cats! Domesticated animals can get along fine with faeries, but consider introducing a pet slowly back into a space where you have invited the fae so as not to scare either party. If you live in a heavily polluted area, try to grow pollution resistant plants around your borders to act as a protective forcefield to hold the energy within your space. Ivy (Hedera spp.) is great for smaller balconies and absorbs outside negativity. Butterfly bush (Buddleia davidii) or honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.) work for large walls and gardens as hardy protective plants; you also have the added bonus of the sweet scent which fairies love.

A Lesson From the Fae

I prefer to set my altar or offering plate north, to honor these earth spirits, do so in a hidden quiet area. Like insects, faeries love a good bug hotel, broken pottery, old bricks, shells, stone walls, gentle slow-flowing water features, brooks, and natural streams. Properly tuned wind chimes are also favorable editions, the fae love gentle music. Creating a safe habitat for all creatures is the key to successfully inviting fairies into your garden. The sweet scent of a herb garden will entice faeries. I recommend soft, scented herbs. Avoid strong or sharp smelling herbs like curry plant (Helichrysum italicum) near your faerie altar. Instead, try: •Lavender (Lavandula spp.) •Californian poppy (Eschscholzia californica) •Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) •Forget-me-nots (Myosotis spp.) •Dogrose (Rosa canina) •Hazel (Corylus spp.) •Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) •Daisies (Bellis perennis) •Dandelions (Taraxacum spp.)

Organic wildflower mixes are readily available online or can be collected from seed. Wildflowers prefer poorer soil and require little tending. So the garden may remain peaceful and plentiful and encourages regular visits from the fae without constant digging and disruption, which may put them off. Earth elementals like fairies, love offerings and gifts. They responded well to foraged food, cut flowers, and handmade tokens. I have found sheep’s wool, magpie, or peacock feathers to be just as acceptable as ribbons or humanmade tokens. I found the fae don’t like drastic change; once a spot is chosen

for your altar or faerie friendly area, try to keep the same spot for that purpose. The most important thing to know about the fae is, when you invite them into your life, you are open letting joy into your home. I have no expectation of these beings and don’t ask for much, even when a clear bond has been d e v e l o p e d . I w o u l d r e c o mm e n d t h i s s u b t l e dynamic to all. You can ask favors of faeries; in my experience, their returns are complicated and can cause more harm than good. If you do decide to work with the fae m a g i c k a l l y, y o u s h o u l d certainly be prepared to feel a lot of laughter, mischief, and joy.

A Lesson From the Fae

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Planting by the moon By Hazel of Hex Tarot

he moon is our most emblematic symbol of the occult. Her reliable gaze is slowly blinking as she makes her transit across the heavens. She is so much more than a symbol.

The moon governs our weather, our seas, our soils and plants, a n d our emotional states. Our moon anchors us to the past and aligns us to the present by setting our fertility clocks. O u r a n c i e n t Pagan ancestors would have utilized the moon's energy in much the same way we witches do today. Perhaps the light of a full moon originally served as a touch for nighttime

gatherings or hunts, before we became fully aware of her power. As a teenager starting to take witchcraft more seriously, I stalked the full moon. Only in her fullest lustration would she do for me. I paid little mind to the waxing and waning of the cycle of the moon, other than a few copied notes in my book of shadows. I knew nothing of her astrology positions or transits. Gardening felt like a progression of my witchcraft; I wanted to introduce less common herbs and flowers into my practice and provide habitat for other beings. It was a time of deep spiritual development in

my life. I was studying astrology, and I had heard about moon plants and became interested. It was at this point I read my first book on gardening folklore. In the old days before intensive farming, farmers would use almanacs and folklore to decide when to plant and when to harvest their crops. These almanacs and superstitions were not so much geared to seasonal gardening as astrological propagation, focused mainly around the moon. The most concise of these almanacs made use of the moon’s 28.5-day cycle as she transits through each

astrological sign every 2.5 days. Tips on planting using the positions of the stars were an assured and tested way for your crops to succeed. I found this to be the case. It is common knowledge among gardeners that herbs and fruit are best picked during a waxing or full moon. Her light projects solar energy towards the plant at its strongest and ripe during her full lustration. This isn’t just hearsay; research and scientific studies have backed up these pagan practices. Magickal Herb collecting requires some deeper thought and ritual. Herbs gathered on a full moon or new moon are perfect for religious or spiritual purposes; however, fruit needs to be preserved or eaten quickly if picked at this time as it is said to contain more water and won’t store well. During the waxing moon, herbs for growth and optimism should be gathered, opposite the waning moon, which is ideal for harvesting herbs for cleansing an d banishing rites.

While this knowledge was long-repressed, we are now seeing a renewed interest in these old practices in the west. Please remember that whether you are harvesting your own herbs or foraging, you must uphold the lore of only taking what you need and making sure the plant is healthy and undamaged by your cultivation. The most widely accepted times to sow seeds are during a waxing moon. Fruit and above ground plants are more successful when planted at this stage in the moon’s cycle. Two days before the full moon is the most favorable for all sowing, propagation and growing. A full moon is best for cultivation, pruning, and fertilization. Sowing root vegetables can also produce a good crop when planted on these days. Waning moons are said to be best for preparation and weeding. If we refer back to our own practice, waning moons would be a time for inner work and reflection, and the same

is said about the garden. Planning your garden or preparing beds can also be done at this time. There are many unfavorable superstitions about doing any planting gardening during a new moon. I have found this is a nice time to observe, clean and tidy your garden. You could spend time during this new moon to assess what would be ideal. Gardening through the moon’s astrological transits Planting by the air signs governs flowers. Cultivating for herbal and medicinal use is good, especially if the moon is full. Flowers are said to have a stronger scent when the moon transits an air sign. This is also a great time to introduce bird feeders and encourage wildlife into your garden. Planting when the moon is transiting through an earth sign is ideal for all types of gardening. Soil is said to be more

responsive and fertile. Capricorn is particularly favorable. Plants having been sown during a waxing moon in Capricorn are said to perform best long term. I have found this true for grafting and tending to house plants too. Earth sign planting governs root vegetables and crops like potatoes. These should be gathered and stored at this time.

magickal use these days, especially those plants for purification or physic development.

Water signs govern leafy plants like lettuce. It is not recommended by many classic almanacs to harvest during water signs as the fruit may have a shorter storage life. Harvest of leaves is best left until an air transit to get the best yield. Water days are ideal for transplanting and sowing. Pick your leaves and stems for

The most interesting thing for me about astrological gardening is that gardeners can potentially gain an even deeper trust in the natural biorhythms of nature. Unlike intensive gardening, which calls for maximum yield or aesthetic, understanding how to get the best out of each plant allows us to focus on the magick of

Fire days are perfect for all fruit growing and cultivation. Picking fruit on a fire day gives seeds and fruit a longer storage life. This is also a perfect time to pick plants governed by fire signs increasing the potency for magickal herbs.Â

life and growth and share in that abundance. We become magickal participants, not spectators. You could say all gardeners are alchemists. That would be correct. For witches and healers, this power is threefold. Enhancing our awareness of these methods enables us to weave them into our own magickal practice. Over time I have found using this system requires less physical effort, as I am able to work in tune with the plantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; rhythms, and their voices start to move in harmony with o u r o w n . We a r e breathing life into our sacred outdoor spaces in tune with the cycles set by our sacred Moon goddess.

Echinacea Echinacea (Echinacea spp.) is also known as coneflower or snakeroot and is from the Asteraceae family. It gets its name from the Greek word echinos or “prickly, spiny” or "sea urchin" in reference to its wide seed head. Echinacea is one of the most widely known herbs in American folk herbalism. There are nine species of echinacea but little is found in the wild now due to overharvesting. The two common species of echinacea are angustifolia and purpurea. Known famously as the immune boosting cold and flu cure-all, echinacea is too often oversimplified in description. This herb has a wide range of uses both medicinally and magickally.

Echinacea spp.

Medicine: It’s an immune stimulant, antimicrobial, antiseptic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory herb that is useful for symptoms in the throat and mucus membranes. It's used topically for snake and insect bites as well as burns and skin afflictions. Potent echinacea produces a tingling sensation that can be quite alarming. This is how you can identify strength. Magick: Echinacea is used for strength, purification, and offering magick. Use the dried herb in spell sachets, potions, or in incense blends. Uses: Brew echinacea in a tea, take as a tincture, make a poultice, or grind in capsules. Safety: An allergic reaction may be possible in people with allergies to daisy family plants.

Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Moon is

the hare, wind, grass, pink, and alder moon; ideal for spells relating to change, balance, emotions, and planning 49

Elderflower Rhubarb Fairy Cake By Miss Wondersmith

This cake is a celebration of those spaces between: the glowing sunsets, the strange dreams, and the invitations to the fairy realms. Fluffy elderflower cake is sandwiched between layers of rich tart rhubarb curd, strawberry jam, and elderflower whipped cream, then topped with edible butterflies and lots of fresh fruit and edible flowers. I have it on good authority that this cake can take you places. INGREDIENTS: Elderflower Cordial 1/4 c dried elderflowers 2 c water 2 c granulated sugar 2 tsp citric acid powder 1 unwaxed lemon 1 unwaxed orange Elderflower Cream 2 c heavy whipping cream 1/2 c powdered sugar 3-4 tsp elderflower cordial, syrup, or liquor to taste Edible butterflies 4 sheets edible rice paper Edible food coloring pen 2 tbsp vodka Pinch saffron threads 1/4 c dark chocolate 1/2 tsp butterfly pea flower powder, optional Piping bag with very fine metal tip clean paintbrush parchment paper

DIRECTIONS: Elderflower Cordial 1. Harvest the elderflowers on a cool morning by gently snipping whole flowerheads into a paper bag. Be sure to only harvest ones that are in their prime; donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t bother with flowers that havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t opened yet or ones that are beginning to brown. Be sure to harvest sustainably and only take a couple of flower heads from each bush. 2. Pluck the flowers off of the stems into a clean heatproof large bowl. The stems are toxic, so be sure to only use the flowers. (Small stems that cling onto individual flowers are okay in moderation.) 3. Slice the lemon and orange and add them to the bowl of elderflowers, along with the citric acid powder. 4. Boil the water and add the sugar, stirring to dissolve it. Let cool slightly, then pour over the elderflowers and lemon slices. 5. Leave in a cool place to infuse for 24 hours, stirring occasionally. Strain well and transfer to bottles. Store in the fridge for up to 3 months. 6. Note: the citric acid helps preserve the mixture, but is optional. Keep your cordial refrigerated and use within a couple of weeks. Elderflower Cream 1. Place the cream and sugar in a large mixing bowl and beat until stiff. 2. Gently fold in the elderflower cordial to taste. Edible Butterflies 1. Print or draw some outlines of butterflies on a piece of paper. Place on a baking sheet and top with waxed paper, then a sheet of edible rice paper. Meanwhile, infuse the saffron in half of the vodka and the butterfly pea powder in the other half in separate dishes. 2. Using the clean paintbrush, gently place a dab of the vodka in the center of each butterfly. Let dry completely. Add small blue dabs of the butterfly pea powder where the blue eyes on each wing are and let dry. 51

DIRECTIONS: Edible Butterflies Continued 1. Use the edible food coloring pen to draw the lines of the butterflies, then cut them out and prop them between two chopsticks on the parchment paper. 2. Gently melt the dark chocolate and place it into the fine-tipped piping bag. Carefully trace some of the veins and designs. Pipe the body in the middle. 3. You can “glue” the butterflies to rice noodles and stick those in the cake to give the illusion that the butterflies are flying above the cake. 4. Dust very gently with edible luster powder (if desired) and store in an airtight container until you’re ready to use them. They’ll last several weeks stored in this manner. INGREDIENTS: Elderflower Cake 3 c cake flour or unbleached all-purpose flour 1 2/3 c sugar 3 tsp baking powder 3/4 tsp salt 3/4 c softened unsalted butter 3/4 c yogurt 1/4 c elderflower cordial (homemade or storebought) 1/2 c fresh elderflowers, removed from stems 2 tsp vanilla extract 4 large eggs 3 tbsp lemon juice Strawberry Rhubarb Curd 2 c finely chopped rhubarb, as pink as possible 1/2 c chopped strawberries 2 tbsp lemon juice 3 large eggs 3/4 c unsalted butter 1 tsp corn starch 1 c granulated sugar

Elderflower Cake 5. Preheat oven to 350F. Grease and flour two 9” cake pans and line with parchment paper. 6. Stir together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Add the butter and beat until the mixture is evenly crumbly, like damp sand. 7. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl after each egg. 8. Whisk together the yogurt, elderflower cordial, and vanilla. Add half of the mixture to the flour and beat 1-2 minutes, until fluffy. Add the remaining yogurt mixture and beat until fluffy again. 9. Stir in the lemon juice and fresh elderflowers and beat the batter at high speed for just 15 seconds to make sure everything is combined. 10.Divide the batter into four even portions and pour them into 9” cake pans. (This will bake a thin layer of cake, perfect for sandwiching with fluffy whipped cream!) 11.Bake on the middle rack in your oven for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the cake springs back when pressed lightly. 12.Let cool on a rack for 10 minutes, then gently loosen the edges and turn out onto a rack to cool completely. Chill in the fridge for a couple of hours to make slicing and assembling the cake easier. Strawberry Rhubarb Curd 1. Wash and cut the rhubarb stalks into small sections. Cut the tops off of the strawberries, and place the fruit into a food processor with the lemon juice. Blend until the fruit has broken down into a pulp, then push that through a fine sieve with a spoon to extract the juice. You should have about 1 1/3 c. juice. 2. Whisk the eggs, sugar, and cornstarch in a heatproof bowl until smooth. 3. In a small saucepan, heat 1 c. of the fruit juice until gently simmering. 4. Remove the juice from heat and pour 1/4 of the hot juice into the egg mixture very slowly, whipping constantly. Pour the egg mixture into the hot juice and continue to whip constantly. Place the pan back over low heat, add the butter, and continue to whisk until the mixture has thickened to the thickness of sour cream. Push through a sieve to remove any lumps. Add the remaining rhubarb and strawberry juice and cover with plastic wrap, pressing it gently to make contact with the surface of the curd to prevent a skin forming. Let chill.

To Assemble Elderflower Rhubarb Fairy Cake INGREDIENTS: To Assemble 1/2 c strawberry jam, softened on the stove Fresh elderflowers, wild roses, and other edible flowers Edible berries (strawberries, gooseberries, golden currants, etc.) Edible butterflies, optional. Bamboo skewers, optional

DIRECTIONS: To Assemble 1. Heat the jam until liquid over low heat. 2. Brush the bottom layer gently with the softened jam, then spread with 1/3 of the rhubarb curd. Top with a layer of whipped cream, then place another cake layer on top. Repeat the layering until the cake is assembled. You may find it helpful to use bamboo skewers to hold the cakes in place as the whole thing can get rather messy in the summer heat. Just remove before eating. 3. Garnish with edible flowers, berries, and edible butterflies. 53

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