This is a modified version of an Earth Day ritual.
Cast a circle around the location where the tree is to be planted
Light candles representing the Guardians of the Four Directions or Elements: North , East, South, and West. Light these in a clockwise direction starting from the North.
Acknowledge the presence of each Guardian as the candle is lighted.
Call upon Gaia or as I know her "Mother Earth" to attend and nurture this tree. Ask that she watch over the trees life. Ask for the tree to live long and prosper!
Dig a hole in the center of the casted circle.
Pour into the hole an offering for "Mother Earth" ( a mixture of cornmeal, wine, and tobacco).
For the trees nourishment and as an offering from you to it, line the hole with composite, manure, and peat moss.
Plant the tree.
Bless the tree with Holy Water.
Surround the tree with earthworms and Lady Bug Beetles to be it's animal protectors (Totems).
Open the circle by extengishing (Do Not blow out the candles) and give thanks for the protection of the circle and of this tree from the Four Elements/ Directions. Dismiss them in the same order as they were called upon, in a clockwise direction.
Some of the earth taken while the circle was cast maybe placed in a vial for use upon your home alter as a symbolism for the Earth.
When calling upon the forces of Nature, be mindful of the type of tree you are planting: Oaks represent strength, Pines represent nurturing and shelter, Birch represents Healing,...This ritual maybe utilized for trees already planted by placing the cornmeal,tobacco, and wine in a trench around the base of the tree, or scattered about if there is a large number of trees, like a new park or forest!
These are notable sites that I feel I could not do any better at so I have linked them for your convienience! Use your back browser button to return to my pages!
