Preparing the Land
Find a suitable plot of land, preferably on your own property, and where passersby won't disturb your plants. In spring, or when danger of frost has passed, take a handful of mistletoe and grind in the mortar three days after the New Moon. Sprinkle over the land. Work the soil well with a spade and trowel till it's light and moist. If the ground is too heavy add a little mulch; if too sandy add humus. Most herbs don't require perfect growing conditions but will produce more healthy growth if some care is given to the soil.
The basic shape of the garden, as stated earlier, is often circular. Lay a long string or light rope in the garden area in a circle, making its circumference as large as the space will allow. Be sure the ends of the rope are joined together with a good knot. If more than one piece of rope is required all connections should be thoroughly knotted.
Next, determine the four directions in your garden with a compass. Place stones outside the rope to mark these spots for later reference. The North stone should be clearly distinguished from the others.
Upon, nightfall, build a small fire or set several lanterns around the area for illumination, if necessary. Starting in the North plant a candle in the earth near the rope but outside the circle, light it, and then move clockwise following the same procedure at the East, South and West points. If the night is windy bring along four lanterns or clear glass jars. If using the jars, pour a bit of melted wax inside each glass jar and fasten the candles within. Place these at the points as directed above.
Now, stand in the center of the circle and face North, holding your magic knife. Lift your arms skyward and say (or shout if the wind is particularly rough):
I call upon the powers of the North to bless and protect this garden.
Repeat to the East, South and West, substituting the appropriate direction in the invocation.
Finished, turn to face the North again. Bend over and trace these symbols on the ground with your magic knife. The 5-pointed star figure should be drawn so that the uppermost point touches the North-facing candle, and the others evenly spaced around the circle, touching the rope.
Now, while kneeling in the Southern section of the pentagram, trace these symbols with the point of your knife.
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