The scarecrow decorations you see now at garden centers can be magically charged to make great protective charms for home and garden. The great thing is no one needs to know that they're magical. You'll need a scarecrow decoration that you can stick into the ground.

You'll also need a square piece of fabric about the size of a handkerchief, garden twine, and some protective herbs. I use one peeled clove of garlic, a dash of black pepper, and at least two basil leaves.

First, position your scarecrow where it can be seen from the street. If you wish, surround it with an autumn theme. A pot of mums, a hay bale, and some pumpkins look great together. Place your herbs in the center of the fabric and tie up the corners with garden twine. Now attach the herb bundle to the scarecrow however you wish. You could tie it onto an arm or tuck it into the shirt.

When everything is ready, charge your scarecrow with these words:
Scarecrow so brave, standing guard,
Protecting my home and my yard,
Protect with garlic, pepper,
and basil leaves.
Any scoundrel who crosses
here shall know grief.

As the scarecrow weathers and fades, respectfully dispose of it and the herb bundle. Repeat next year.