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[necrobotany-bos]

Faerie Witch Guide

Altar Items/Symbols/Decorations: Fae stars, Milk, Apples, Wildflowers, Mushrooms, Alcohol, Fairy Statues, Butterfly symbolism, Bee symbolism, Dried or fresh fruit, Fresh water, Plants, Bells, Bubbles, Non-plastic Glitter, Tree symbolism, Dancing, Four-leaf clovers, Nuts and seeds

What not to include on a Fae altar: Anything plastic or unnatural like plastic glitter (the fae hate littering), Chocolate (very dangerous for animals), Himalayan Salt (it gets its pink color from iron and iron repels fae), anything iron

Stones and Crystals: Pink tourmaline, Rose quartz, Aura quartz, Chrysoprase, Amethyst, Peridot, Opal (opalite), Tree agate, Moss agate, Dyed quartz, Holey stones, Goldstone, Copper, Honey calcite, Calcite (any)

Herbs and Plants: Rose, Lavender, Thyme, Chamomile, Blackberry, Apple, Clover, Elderberry, Violet, Bluebells, Lilac, Peony, St John’s Wort, Oak, Holly, Willow, Moss, Ferns, Dandelions, Berries, Heather

Deities: Brigid, Aine, Rhiannon, Lugh, Morrigan

Scents/Incense/Essential Oils: Bergamot, Lavender, Rose, Fir, Pine, Ylang Ylang, Geranium, Jasmine, Lemongrass, Strawberry, Violet, Gardenia, Grapefruit, Oakmoss, Tea tree

Natural Gateways (to the Fae realm): Rivers, Stone and Tree Arches, Lakes, Springs, Mountains, Old Trees, Wishing Wells, Hills, Wildflower Fields, Stone Circles, Flower Gardens, Rainbows, Clover Patches, Mushroom Circles

Fae Elements: Water, Earth, Air, Fire, Moon, Sun, Stars

Spells and Magic the Fae can help with: Cottage witchcraft, Kitchen witchery, Garden magic, Prosperity, Happiness, Elemental magic, Art, Life, Animals, Cannabis, Solar and Lunar energies, Nature magic, Air witchcraft, Fertility spells, Magic that doesn’t involve children

OFFERINGS

Milk

Honey

Anything small and shiny

Rings

Beads

Pretty Rocks and Crystals

Cream

Sweets (natural)

Cakes and Cookies

Clean Water

Fresh Fruit

Alcohol or Juice

Natural items

DEVOTIONAL ACTS

Clean up litter

Spend more time in nature, especially near natural gateways

Wear a floral perfume

Help animals whenever you can

Grow a Faerie garden

Study local fae

Stay hydrated with fruit-infused water, floral-infused water, or teas

Have an outdoor party or picnic to honor the fae

Make offerings regularly, especially when asking for  favors

Things going missing or suddenly lost is a sign that the Fae are near

Carry a sachet of, or wear a locket of rose quartz, thyme, st John’s wort, rose petals and lavender to attract fae and help you see them

Dance, Sing and make Art

FAE COURTS

This is only a small portion of known Fae courts, so please acknowledge that there’s far more than just this. Be careful with the Fae, and stay educated on them. 

Spring Court

Very cheerful faeries who celebrate life in all its forms. They are the most inclined to pull pranks, though these could potentially turn dangerous when they fail to realize how fragile non-fae are. They love flowers and spread happiness and joy. They enjoy dancing and prefer not to think about death at all, and the other courts often see them as naive. Polite, seductive and curious. 

Summer Court

Well-mannered and polite, though not as cheerful as the spring court. Not afraid of death, but wishes to enjoy life anyways. Smart, but not conceited. Will punish those who harm and insult them, but are not prone to kill or torture unless they’re absolutely furious. They prefer to respect life rather than take it away.

Autumn Court

Mysterious and strange yet very beautiful. They view death as a natural part of life, and do not understand the hate and fear surrounding it. They are not conceded, but do hold grudges when wronged. When disrespected, they become very cruel, often cursing or torturing those who fail to respect them for their own amusement. The autumn court, however, does give the best gifts and boons out of all the courts. When respected, they will show that courtesy right back. Those on their good side are very fortunate. 

Winter Court

Hearts of ice, both figuratively and literally. Expect death when dealing with them, as they do not care for life and only focus on decay. They are cruel, and proud of it. Threatening, dark and eerie. Hates mortal creatures, and thinks other courts are weak. They gain amusement from their own cruelty.

Seelie and Unseelie

The general idea is that Seelie are good, holy and pure. Unseelie are considered unholy, tainted and evil. Spring and Summer could be considered Seelie, while Autumn and Winter could be considered Unseelie. While these definitions seem blunt, the reality is not as clear-cut. Unseelie can be kind and take in mortals to provide for them (though they probably consider them “pets” more than anything), while Seelie can play evil pranks without realizing how harmful they can be, and they definitely won’t apologize for it. These terms are complicated, and every Fae is as unique as a snowflake. However, these definitions still might be useful for getting a general idea of how to interact with the Fair Folk.

FAERIE CONDUCT

Whatever you do, don’t be rude to them. Fae are old and powerful creatures, and will take revenge if hurt or insulted. Avoid being nosey when it comes to faerie business, be gracious when accepting gifts or blessings they give you, and never approach them with iron on your person. 

Do not lie, as fae can sense truth and will punish liars. Also remember to always keep your promises to them, they expect diligence in others.

Do not say sorry, thank you, or accept any gifts from them. This means you become in debt to the fae, and that is a very bad thing to be. Say “I appreciate this” or something like it instead. 

Do not give them your real name. That gives them power over you. You should give them a nickname, alias or title instead. 

Do not mention any children, infants or loved ones to them. The Fae love kids, but they have a tendency to steal them and put one of their own in their place. They will also cause misfortune upon your loved ones if mistreated, so it’s best not to mention them at all.

Do not provoke them or invade their space

Don’t call them “the fae” or “fairies” to their face. Say “fair folk” or “good neighbors” instead

Ask if something is a gift or a contract. If it’s a gift, it may be considered rude to not take it

Do not dance with them or accept food or drink from them. This usually ends with you dancing until you die, or being forever tied and abducted into the fae realm.

Mind your words. The Fae are masters of trickery, they’re naturally mischievous in nature. They take things very literally, and even if you don’t break any of these rules explicitly, they could misconstrue your words and mess up a request. Choose your words VERY carefully, especially when asking for help.

How to tell if Faeries are nearby:

Feeling warm tingles across your skin

Things go missing and reappear elsewhere in your home

You see things out the corner of your eyes

You find yourself wanting to participate in childish activities like swinging and skipping

Random floral scented breezes

You have a habit of bringing nature inside

You find yourself wanting to save insects instead of killing them when you find them inside

Faerie circles

You are followed by crows and ravens

Increased animal activity

Shimmers in the air

You hear mysterious giggling

You find large patches of clovers

Faerie Garden Ideas

Thyme is often used for Faerie communication

Heather marks the resting place of faeries

Alyssum is useful in faerie gardens

Buttercups, Columbines, Dianthus/Sweet William, Hollyhock, Jasmine, Peony, Primrose and Rosemary are associated with faeries and are known to invite them

Hawthorn is sacred to faeries, so don’t mess with Hawthorn trees

Hummingbirds and Rabbits are associated with Faeries, so having them in your garden is a good thing

NOTES

Many fae are not humanoid or traditionally “cute”. Do not be alarmed if you see one and it’s not what you expected

Most fae are much larger than you think too

If fae are in your house, they probably won’t hurt you. They likely believe it’s just as much their house as it is yours

Appliances will randomly stop working. Don’t worry about it

Do NOT hurt the spiders and bugs

They will interact with your pets and animals

Do not accept any items from Fae unless it’s explicitly stated to be a gift

If you write about your experiences with them, they may try and stop you. In which case you should stop, since you’re sharing too much about them

When it’s 3AM and you randomly feel bursts of energy, the desire to dance and be productive, you’ve been faeriestruck. This is normal

Play music with constant rhythms for them

Always thank plants when plucking flowers and leaves

Your fae will eventually learn things about you, especially if they live in your house. Do not panic

Befriend your fae or they will never stop bothering you. Just be careful

[necrobotany-bos]

Feathers as Messages

Feathers are commonly seen as good luck and messages from the spirit world. Here’s a quick guide to what any feathers you may find might mean. 

Colors

White Feather - A sign from a passed loved one or angels. Are a common sign that your spiritual desires and requests are being answered, and serve as reassurance that everything will be alright. 

Black Feather - A call to spiritual action and for self-exploration. Represents wisdom, strength and protection. Black feathers may mean you are being watched over and protected from negative influence. 

Red Feather - Represents love, passion, good luck, fortune and business. Changes are coming your way. 

Gray Feather - Peace and Compromise, and that calmer times are ahead

Blue Feather - May be telling you to speak up for yourself, and can be a sign of better communication with the supernatural. Blue feathers also mean that your requests will be granted. 

Orange Feather - Represents creative expression and manifestation, so you should go for what you want now. You should harness your creativity. Orange feathers can also remind you that everything is going to be alright, and can also represent healing.

Yellow Feather - You have all the tools to create the life you want. A bright future is ahead of you.

Green Feather - Represents healing, both of yourself and those you care about, along with hope and compassion. Good things are coming to you in terms of love and business. Take care of yourself.

Purple Feather - You are experiencing rapid spiritual growth. You are more connected than ever.

Pink Feather - You are on the verge of a breakthrough, and unconditional love is on the way. You are being called to communicate your love and show compassion to others. 

Brown Feather - You need to ground and stabilize yourself. Represents balance between the physical and spiritual.

Species

Blue Jay - Good luck. Assures you of future success and good fortune, as well as self-healing, faithfulness and determination. You need to express yourself, listen to subtle hints, and brace for change. Be bold and assertive. 

Albatross - New opportunities, freedom, hope and wanderlust. You may travel or visit someplace important soon. Also brings good luck to seafarers

Blackbird - You’re not alone, something is watching over you and you are protected. Blackbirds also represent reflection and intelligence, so you should listen to your intuition, it may come in handy soon

Cardinal - Stand your ground. Know your power. You may be taken on a journey and be set for new beginnings in life. Protecting you and your loved ones is of the utmost importance right now.

Peacock - Associated with protection and attraction. If you’re looking for a partner, a Peacock feather is saying to strut your stuff and show your beauty. Strongly associated with Hera

Hawk - Hawk Feathers are a strong sign that you are being watched over and protected. Protect yourself and those you love. Share your insight and intuition with the world and those around you. 

Eagle - You are being positively acknowledged. Others respect you and love you. Challenge yourself to put yourself out there

Owl - Represents wisdom and intuition. New insight and guidance will enter your life and help clear things up. Examine those around you and look out for deception

Turkey - Abundance, pride and fertility are coming your way. Prosperity will soon be yours

Dove - Things will get better. You are moving towards truth and clarity, and things will soon  become clear

Chick-a-dee - Self-expression and friendship. Good things are coming, just hold on

Goose - You should practice communication more and focus on being honest. Good communication will save you from trouble later on

Crow - Considered a message from angels. It may be offering you comfort, a suggestion or a warning. Angels are currently aiding in your heading process 

Duck - You will make new friends and be happy with them. Your relationships will strengthen. However, watch out for fake friends, somebody may try to ruffle your feathers (hehe) soon

Falcon - You will find/love/marry someone of great fortune, or make a great fortune yourself

Heron - Be patient. Good things are coming quickly

Hummingbird - Spirits are trying to communicate with you. Also represents love, beauty and intelligence

Magpie - News is coming

Mockingbird - Be authentic and original, your uniqueness will pay off

Pigeon - Angels are communicating with you. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re going through something. Also represents family 

Robin - Renewal and personal growth 

Sparrow - Good luck and productivity will hit you soon

Swan - Angels are communicating with you. Also represents grace, purity and wisdom

Vulture - Strength

Woodpecker - Communication with nature and spirits, represents mysteries too

Wren - Rebirth, Immortality and Protection. You are being guided and protected by powerful forces

Stork - You or someone you know may have children soon. It’s time to settle down

Osprey - Have faith in your abilities and you will achieve your dreams

Loon - Old hopes will reawaken. Your wishes will come true

Chicken - Prosperity and Abundance are coming your way

[necrobotany-bos]

Crow Counting

Counting Crows has been a popular method of Fortune Telling for hundreds of years. Depending on how many crows you see, you can get estimates for what the future may hold

(1) One Crow: Signifies Bad Luck, possibly Death. Can also represent change

(2) Two Crows: Good Luck, Change for the Better

(3) Three Crows: A celebration, possibly the marriage or birth of a girl

(4) Four Crows: Birth of a Boy, or a significant event to do with a Son

(5) Five Crows: A positive transaction

(6) Six Crows: A secret

(8) Eight Crows: Something profound, or a life-altering experience

(9) Nine Crows: Signifies Passion, or something sensual

(10) Ten Crows: Denotes something overwhelming

(11) Eleven Crows: Uncertainty

(12) Twelve Crows: Fulfillment

[necrobotany-bos]

Green Witch Fact #1

Basil was, traditionally, a symbol of courting, particularly in Italy. Young bachelors would give Basil to their partners to declare their feelings, and when a young maiden hung or grew Basil on her windowsill, she was open to finding a partner. This makes it a great addition for love and attraction spells!

Basil is also a natural pest repellent that grows really well alongside tomatoes. In fact, many gardeners basically plant a wall of basil around their tomatoes because it repels bugs, and they just go great together overall.

I learned this from the Rodale Herb Book, which I found in my Dad's library. It's a really old, interesting book about the medicine, history, folklore and gardening of all sorts of herbs! I really recommend it to fellow plant enthusiasts and green witches! You can find copies of it online if you're interested!!

[necrobotany-bos]

Correspondences for Death (Necrobotany)

FLOWERS

Dandelions, ideal for connecting with certain spirits

Roses, to show your love for the deceased

Calendula, for blessings and love

Marigolds, perfect for ancestral worship

Lilies, for a sense of security and togetherness, ideal for deceased children

Orchids, for balanced emotions and adoration, ideal for deceased lovers

Daisies, also ideal for deceased lovers and lost family members

Tulips, to spread happiness

Carnations, a common funeral flower, especially in France. Used in The Netherlands to remember fallen veterans specifically

Heather, said to conjure ghosts and open portals between worlds. Can be used to heal deceased warriors, as it’s said to only grow where no blood has been shed. Heather also marks the resting places of fairies

Holly, often planted in graveyards to protect both the dead and mourners

Hyacinth, helps souls cross over the veil after death

Bluebell, used to comfort those who are mourning

Cowslip, associated with death and rebirth

HERBS

Lavender, for peace in passing on. Used to heal the dead, aid with divination and dreams, and protect the home. 

Thyme, to give peace to those who died in violence. Use to contact both the dead and fairies

Rosemary, for remembrance

Chervil, often used in rituals for the dead

Mugwort, usually used to aid in divination and communication with the dead

Bay, usually used to aid in divination and communication with the dead

Lemon Balm, for peace and healing

Wormwood, to strengthen communication with the dead, as well as for healing and revenge

Basil, used in purification and cleansing rituals, a common symbol of sorrow in Ancient Greece. Use to aid in divination, hedgecrossing and spirit communication

Cinnamon, can amplify divination magic, and was used in the Ancient Egyptian mummification process. It’s commonly associated with spirit and deity work

Dittany of Crete, burned to manifest spirits, also valued as a symbol of love and healing

Fennel, a protective and purifying herb used to prevent spirits from entering your home

Juniper, guards against ghosts and illness, used in healing and purification spells. Juniper berries make good offerings for the dead

Mint, a popular funerary herb in Ancient Greece, also used for healing and protection during travel

Mugwort, used in spirit work

Mullein, can help one see spirits of the dead and the afterlife

Oregano, it was believed that growing oregano on graves ensured the dead were happy

Parsley, has a strong association with the dead, also has protective qualities

St John’s Wort, used in spirit work and divination

Marsh mallow (Althea), associated with death and rebirth, marsh mallow can be used in departing rituals and to honor those who have passed

Foxglove, used for contacting the dead and underworld deities

TREES

Cypress, heavily associated with death and spirits, as well as being sacred to Hades and Persephone. Makes a good offering for the dead

Hawthorn, associated with death, and serves to drive away unfriendly spirits. Was also said to be a portal to the Otherworld and is sacred to fairies, so don’t mess with it

Hickory, associated with mourning and death

Poplar, is sacred to both Zeus and Hades, and represents death and rebirth. Often used for Samhain, ancestral rites, funerals and ceremonies involving the underworld

Willow, a common symbol of death, even being a popular ornament on gravestones. Sacred to both Hades and Hecate, as well as being associated with ghosts and spirits

Yew, represents death and rebirth, and is sacred to Hecate. Runes, Ogham sticks and Ouija boards are commonly made from Yew wood

Elder, used in death rituals and funerals

FRUITS

Apples, a common Irish symbol for the dead

Pomegranates, to represent various Death and Underworld Deities

INCENSE

Myrrh, commonly used in death magic to give off good energy

Frankincense, a traditional incense to offer the dead

Dragon’s Blood, burned to aid in spirit work and protection

Sandalwood, burned to support spirit work, protect a space and consecrate tools

Wormwood, develops psychic powers, carried to provide protection, and hung to ward off malicious spirits

LIQUIDS

Water, a traditional offering for the dead, often left out for passing spirits

Wine or other alcohol

Juice, namely pomegranate or beet

Oils, such as olive oil, pomegranate oil, coconut oil, almond oil, etc. 

OTHER

Coins

Grains, especially brown bread

Darkly-colored or Earthy-tone Candles

Foggy Weather

Marsh Water

Snow, especially snow collected from graveyards

Cleaning up graveyards

Songs and Music

Anything personal to the person you’re giving an offering to

DEATH DEITIES

Anubis, Egyptian God of Death, Mummification and the Afterlife

Arawn, Celtic ruler of the Otherworld, Leader of the wild hunt, and God of Death and The Underworld

Baba Yaga, Slavic Goddess of Death and Rebirth

Cernunnos, Celtic God of the Wild as well as Liminality and the transition to the afterlife

Cerridwen, Welsh Goddess of the Moon, Rebirth, Transformation, Death, The Underworld and Magic

Ereshkigal, Mesopotamian Goddess of Death and the Underworld

Hades, Greek God of the Underworld

Hel, Norse Goddess of the Underworld and Death

Morana, Slavic Goddess of Winter and Death

Odin, Norse God of Wisdom, War, Poetry and Death

Osiris, Egyptian God of the Underworld, Death and Resurrection, Fertility and Agriculture

Oya, Yoruba Orisha of Weather, Death and Rebirth, Patron of the Niger river and a Psychopomp

Persephone, Greek Goddess of the Underworld

Santa Muerte, Mexican folk goddess of the Afterlife, Healing and Protection

Thanatos, Greek personification of Death

The Morrigan, Celtic Goddess of War, Magic, Death and Rebirth, Sovereignty and Fate

Veles, Slavic God of The Underworld, Earth, Water, Music, Magic, Trickery, Cattle and Wealth

WHAT TO DO WITH OFFERINGS

Write a message on an herb or flower and burn it to “send” the offering

Leave coins, flowers and herbs on the grave

Pour liquid into the ground, or leave them out in a bowl (make sure it won’t harm the local wildlife)

Leave them out as “standing offerings” for any dead who pass by