The Celestial Garden

""[Stevens'] advice is plentiful, as are how-tos: step-by-step seed gardening, a handful of recipes/projects (violet syrup, cherry bark cough syrup, wreaths), and useful lists of astrological signs . . . The Old Farmer’s Almanac as well as Stevens' horticultural degree underscore the science of her work, which is best read slowly [and] thoroughly.""—Booklist “A unique and wonderful book, brimming with the knowledge and skills that arise from a lifetime in herbalism. Practical, competent, and relevant herbalism guided by the application of insights that flow from astrology. Understanding that herbalism is harnessing ecology for human health, Jane Hawley Stevens has taken this insight much further by showing how the cosmic ecology of astrology can augment all aspects of herbalism, from gardening to medicine making to healing. This book is a major contribution to herbalism’s role not only in the alleviation of suffering but the transformation of human consciousness. Thank you, Jane!”—David Hoffmann, RH (AHG), fellow, National Institute of Medical Herbalists; principal scientist, Traditional Medicinals “Celestial Gardening unlocks ancient truths about planting—and living—in lunar harmony. Prepare to cultivate your garden as well as your soul: Herbalist Jane Hawley Stevens guides readers in contemplative discovery of the organic connections among plants and creatures, the moon’s cycles, and the rhythms of our shared Earth.”—Carol Connare, editor, The Old Farmer’s Almanac “In this easy-to-understand guidebook, Jane Hawley Stevens demystifies the moon and stars in relationship with nature and explains how you can use their powerful cycles to make your garden the most beautiful, bountiful, and happiest it can be.”—Maria Rodale, author of Love, Nature, Magic “In The Celestial Garden, Jane Hawley Stevens perfectly blends common-sense gardening with empirical observation of cycles. Jane illuminates early wisdom in the plant–human relationship, and her writing style invites one to embrace the beautiful relationship between the sky, the earth, and their joint cornucopia.”—William Morris, PhD, DAOM, author of Cycles in Medical Astrology “Tuning in to ancient knowledge is like a living meditation. You let go of your ego and surrender to the higher energy, where all is connected. Jane Hawley Stevens helps us remember to dial down technology and listen to the subtle, cosmic rhythms that support all of life. The Celestial Garden is a luminous gem of a book and a must-read for all gardeners and plant lovers.”—Pat Crocker, culinary herbalist and award-winning author of The Herbalist’s Kitchen “Who has been growing gardens of herbs and vegetables for over thirty years and is now giving you directions? Jane Hawley Stevens, in this wonderful book, provides experience, techniques, traditions, and nature-wisdom, along with her extensive herbal knowledge.”—Matthew Wood, MS (Herbal Medicine), founder, Matthew Wood Institute of Herbalism; author of The Earthwise Herbal Repertory “A gift to all gardeners! In this pragmatic, clear, and comprehensive book, Jane leads us into the garden of the divine with her easy-to-apply guidelines for living and gardening in harmony with the moon and star influences.”—Atina Diffley, award-winning author of Turn Here Sweet Corn “I have visited Jane’s magnificent farm, and her chakra garden is one of the most beautiful and magical gardens I have ever experienced. The Celestial Garden is a treasure trove of her lifelong experience with plants and stewardship of the land, and also the wisdom born of her deep connection with the Earth. This book is wise, delightful, thoughtful, and inspirational, while being firmly grounded in the practical work of raising herbs, food, family, and community. Jane’s clear explanation of the movement of celestial bodies through the cosmos has given me new appreciation for how the moon exerts its influence. Her practical, step-by-step instructions and lists of gardening activities to engage in during various moon phases are beyond valuable. I also appreciate her insights into the planetary influences on gardeners and herbalists!”—Betzy Bancroft, cofounder and core faculty, Vermont Center for Integrative Herbalism “Ah, to go back in time and be a young land steward thinking about birthing gardens and planting trees to reach for the stars! The Celestial Garden would have been my companion each morning over a steaming cup or each evening setting intentions for the following day. To know the connection to each cycle of the moon, and which planet close above, for planting seeds of varying types into which soil to enhance plant growth and the harvest and offer the best potential outcome for vibrant wonderfulness is, well, very cool. Jane adds a sprinkling of lovely family stories that warm the heart. This family of farmers and workers is a positive reflection of balanced Earth and celestial energies.”—Margi Flint, founder, EarthSong Herbals; author of The Practicing Herbalist