Firewood Processor Forum

Using a friend's account -

I'm still studying, and havn't been officially dedicated yet, but I've been recently studying herbs and the like, and I was wondering if I was able to get a cedar log (as in meant for firewood) would I be able to make my own chips that way to cut down on cost? I know someone who sells various types of lumber and firewood, but if I were to ask for a specific type, he'd be able to point it out.
Also, any hints you have on recognizing specific trees and plants? My mom is good in the flower area, but not with herbs.

PS - This isn't something I'm very open about with my family, so even though I inadvertently pick up on things from my mom, I'm not exactly going to tell her yet.

Using a friend's account -

I'm still studying, and havn't been officially dedicated yet, but I've been recently studying herbs and the like, and I was wondering if I was able to get a cedar log (as in meant for firewood) would I be able to make my own chips that way to cut down on cost? I know someone who sells various types of lumber and firewood, but if I were to ask for a specific type, he'd be able to point it out.
Also, any hints you have on recognizing specific trees and plants? My mom is good in the flower area, but not with herbs.

PS - This isn't something I'm very open about with my family, so even though I inadvertently pick up on things from my mom, I'm not exactly going to tell her yet.

not me then

There are TONS of great books out there on herbal medicine; this is the area into which you're getting with Wiccan herbal lore. I'd check on Amazon.com. They do require a credit or gift card; if you're a young person (I gather?), then you may need to purchase a gift card so that you can make purchased from them; they also accept debit cards, and you can buy gift cards from Borders and use them there.

The reason I suggest Amazon is that they sell very good-quality used books, so you don't have to break the bank getting new ones. The words don't wear out just because someone has already read them, of course ;-) I buy LOTS of books this way, as I'm on a limited budget, but love to read. Lots of times you can get a used book for a dollar or less plus three or four dollars for the actual shipping.

You might also check into courses that you can take at a local university, nature center, etc. These are almost always free or VERY inexpensive. There are also native plant societies in every state of the U.S., and the folks there know a LOT about indigenous herbs. Google "<your state name> Native Plant Society" and find a chapter near you. Cost to join is minimal, especially if you're a student. I'm a member of the Washington Native Plant Society, and have learned a tremendous amount in the two years since I moved here (originally from Texas).

As to recognizing plants - a good field guide for your area (east of the Rockies or west of the Rockies is an important factor, too) is indispensable for plant recognition. The Audubon Society field guides for wildflowers and other plants are excellent resources, but you can also get lots of state-specific ones as well; Peterson's field guides are excellent as well. NEVER consume a plant if you are not CERTAIN of what you are dealing with; plants may seem innocuous, but many medications found in pharmacies available by prescription only are based on plants, and some are simply seriously toxic.

I think it's great that you're interested in plants; there are a wide variety of career options dealing with plants and botany, and of course your studies regarding Wicca make knowledge of herbs important.

Enjoy!

http://www.wicca.com/celtic/cc002.htm

i am not wicca but looked up a site for you to look at