Lia Leendertz

Seasonal

On why we need the Almanac

The days are shortening and the season is shifting. As we start Book Month, Lia Leendertz tells the story of how and why she had to write a very special Almanac.

Seasonal

Beware the Ice Saints: May's Frosty Forecast

Could there be any truth behind the myth of Cold Sophia and her gang?

Growing for eating

Enchanting Potato Lore: From Devil's Apples to Lunar Planting

The traditional day for planting your potatoes is coming up: Good Friday. But how did this lore appear and what is behind it? And how does it tie very neatly into lunar gardening...?

Growing for eating

Imbolc, Potatoes, and Lunar Gardening: Resisting the Gardener's Itch

Every February we feel the call to begin gardening, often too early, but taking guidance from the ancient Celtic festival of spring can help us with our timings.

Winter

Myths and Magic Hidden in Your Midwinter Garden

A stroll through the stories and myths of the solstice garden.

Flowers

Seeds of Change: Harnessing Lunar Power in Your Garden

New research suggests there really may be a link between the moon's phases and the way plants grow. Is it time to make use of this ancient knowledge for ourselves?

Summer

Martinmas Mysteries and the Magic of Indian Summer

St Martin's Day traditionally brings the a first taste of stored summer produce, and perhaps a final taste of summer itself.

Seasonal

Ancient Rituals in Modern Gardens: The Magic of Wassailing

It is wassailing time in the winter garden and orchard, so mull your cider and pay your respects to the apples in this beautiful echo from times past

Fruit

Apple Magic and Autumn Rituals for a Bountiful October

Apples abound in tales of folklore and magic and the renewal of the season to come.

Sustainability

Barbarazweig and Moon Pruning: Secrets of Winter's Garden

The solar, lunar and human calendars all combine to create the perfect pause for winter pruning this month, but can you embrace the lull? Join me for the latest in my lunar gardening series.