How to Plant a Tree With Cremated Ashes
One of the most popular ways to honor a lost loved one is to plant a tree in their honor. This act is not only healing but provides a living memorial to watch grow and thrive over the years and down the generations. To learn how to plant a tree that incorporates your loved one’s ashes, keep reading as providers of cremation services in Elk Grove Village, IL. Share what you need to know.
What You Need
To plan a tree for your loved one, you will first need to purchase an urn. There are many biodegradable options to choose from as well as specifically designed tree kit urns. You want to avoid placing anything in the ground that is not biodegradable or especially for this purpose as it can harm the environment.
You also want to avoid placing the cremated remains directly into the ground as they can actually interfere with the growth of the tree because they have a high ph balance. If you want to plant a tree without the use of an urn, you can find a specific soil mixture that you mix the cremated remains into. This mixture is designed to help lower the ph balance which will help the tree grow.
Next, you will need a tree. It is important to do your research here before you purchase the tree to ensure you get a type that can grow in your climate. You can find information about this online or visit a local nursery or arboretum and talk to a professional. You will also need to decide if you want just a seed or a tree that has already started to grow.
How To Plant the Tree
Once you have your tree and your urn, it’s time to plant the tree. If the tree is just a seed, dig a hole approximately 7” deep and place the urn and the seed into the hole. Cover the urn with the soil making sure there is a layer covering the urn of about 1”. Water occasionally as needed.
If you are planting a tree that has already started growing, the steps are a little different. With a young tree, you will want to dig a hole 2-3 times the size of the tree’s root ball. Then before planting, you want to loosen the tree’s roots by laying the tree on its side and using your fingers, to loosen the dirt and roots. Place the urn in the dirt with the tree and cover the hole. You may need to stake the tree to ensure it is secure as it grows.
Where Should You Plant Your Tree
Where you plant your tree is an induvial choice. Some people who have a home may wish to plant a tree in their yard or garden so they can tend to it daily. Others may choose to plant it in a park or other special location where they can still drive by or go and visit it. Just make sure if you are placing it on property other than your own you check with law enforcement to ensure it is legal.
Final Thoughts
Planting a tree with your loved one’s cremains is a wonderful way to honor them and keep their memory alive. This is also a great activity to do as a family so don’t be afraid to ask other family members to join in. You can even make it a ceremony and take turns saying a few words or sharing a story about your loved one before placing the dirt over the roots.
If you are ready to talk about cremation services in Elk Grove Village, IL, or need help in preplanning your own arrangements, give us a call and meet one-on-one with one of our directors today.
