One of the key focus points of the Mistletoe Foundation is about propagation of the herb. By propagating it ourselves, we become involved in the whole process of its growth, and so have a chance of better understanding the spirit of the herb, from germination to fruiting.
Propagation is notoriously hard, some swearing that the process is only possible after the seed has passed through a bird's digestive system, but this is not true. The seeds can be smeared onto bark, in the same way that birds do. Many are lost through drought or destroyed by other parasitical fauna on tree bark ... so persevere.
FEBRUARY The time is almost here to get your thumbs sticky with natures own UHU glue. February is the time to start this years propagation project. We've got to get our coats on and get out there: a good reason for connecting to the energies of Imbolc. I've learnt recently that dense woodland is no good. Trees on the edge of clusters in open areas south facing or solitary trees fare better, willow on riverbanks, and especially lime and hawthorn, stand a good chance of taking. Native crab apple is not that good but the cultivated apple fruit trees are. Oh yes, and squeeze the seed out of the skin on the underside of a branch about the thickness of your thumb. Good luck and have some fun with the quest, as if you need an excuse to climb trees! Incidentally with hawthorn for example just attach the seeds from a comfortable height that is easy to reach up to. Stefan |
Sourcing Berries
The Mistletoe Foundation is happy to be working with mistletoe expert, Jonathan Briggs, and we are happy to provide those interested with berries throughout February. These would cost £5 per 50 berries for those who are happy to pay, or would be provided free, the Foundation picking up the cost for the first who make a request.
Please contact Stefan on stefan.seniuk [at] ntlworld [dot] com.
For further information about propagation, have a look at http://www.mistletoe.org.uk
A Thought
Some within Druidry have questioned whether and why we should be working towards propagating mistletoe. While it does not damage a tree, it is a parasite, draining the tree of energy and distorting its growth. If you are seeking a tree onto which you might spread mistletoe berries, you may wish to ask the tree for permission.
Obviously, if you are keen to grow mistletoe and your ability to perceive spirit is not well developed, you may not hear a negative response from the tree. If your spiritual perception is strong and you are open to any answer, you may be lucky enough to find a tree that is happy to host the herb. But, with respect, we suggest you do honour the trees you approach. Some may refuse by not allowing the herb to take a hold on its bark, but some may not have the strength (few humans have the power to refuse a parasitic invasion). They have a right to refuse at the outset.
