Throughout history, trees have been used to represent life, strength, family, longevity, wisdom, and growth. Depending on the culture, trees are given particular importance and sometimes sacred values. This is one reason why planting a tree to honor the memory of a loved one is something people have been doing for hundreds of years. Today, burial trees are an alternative funeral ceremony that’s gaining popularity and replacing traditional ceremonies.

What is a burial tree?

Burial trees are an ecologically friendly funeral option where the deceased’s cremated remains are planted and laid to rest with a tree or shrub. There are different burial tree practices. Some organizations use biodegradable pods, caskets, or living urns to place cremains next to the newly planted tree, while others will take an even more sustainable and affordable approach and combine the ashes directly with native soil so they can become one with the tree or shrub.

How to plan a burial tree funeral celebration?

Once you’ve decided you want to have a tree-planting ceremony, you should contact an experienced company familiar with this type of funeral practice. When you reach out to them, they will guide you in the process, give you a quote, and provide all the information you need to have a unique and memorable celebration of life.

This company should be able to help you find the right type of tree to honor your loved one, the best location to plant the tree, a good day for the planting ceremony, and determine if a religious commemoration will accompany this celebration.

What tree is best for a memorial tree?

There are various burial trees to choose from; the type you select should be appropriate for the region it will be planted in and a meaningful representation of your loved one. Some of the most popular trees for tree burials include:

Oak Tree: A symbol of strength, morale, resistance, and knowledge. It is associated with virtues such as honor, nobility, and wisdom.

Maple Tree: Symbolizes balance, promise, longevity, and abundance.

Willow Tree: Represents hope, safety, stability, and healing.

Cherry Tree:  Representative of good fortune, new beginnings, and revival.

Elm Tree: Signifies unity, choice, wisdom, and eternity.

Sycamore Tree: A symbol of strength, protection, and divinity.

Finding the perfect way to honor the memory of a loved one is not always easy. Tree burials are a great choice for those who desire to hold a celebration of life service where those close to the dearly departed can say their goodbyes and establish a memorial site they can visit.

Burial trees are a great way to commemorate a loved one, give back to nature, and provide a beautiful location family and friends can visit.

If you are considering an alternative tree burial service, contact the experts at Destination Destiny to learn more.