Bearheart, that's very interesting to hear your personal story there. May I ask whereabouts you are based and where you work? I appreciate that you may not be able to reply further to this thread, but would love to hear more from you on this matter, if and when you are able. If this thread disappears or you prefer not to post onlist, feel free to PM me at any point when you may be able.

Julia, a lovely Barley Christ Carol there.

Some interesting suggestions so far. I'd love to read an article researching some of the folk traditions around singing to/about plants which are being gathered or used for a purpose.