How to Plant a Tree in Memoriam

Life is fleeting and sometimes the best way to celebrate the passing on of a loved one is to focus on new life. Planting a tree in memory of someone you have lost is a way to continue life in that person's name. You can even plant a tree to help heal the pain of losing a pet. Lost love hurts in any form and planting a tree in memoriam not only helps to heal grief, but it helps the planet to grow greener.

Instructions

1. You can plant a tree in your own landscape as a ceremonial gift to someone lost in your life. You will be adding to your landscape's beauty and celebrating your loved one by promoting more life. You are creating a living memorial that will be there for all your life and beyond while helping to clean the air and provide a home for wildlife.

2. There are companies set up to help you plant a tree -- or trees -- where forestation is most needed. Contact organizations like Trees Instead or the American Arbor Foundation. (See links below under Resources.)

3. Check with your town or city. Some areas actually have programs that encourage reforestation and will be glad to plant a tree in honor of someone important to you.

4. You can also plant a tree on behalf of someone else to help them deal with their grief, plant a tree to commemorate a happier event, or buy a live Christmas tree and plant it out after the holidays. One thing to keep in mind is if you are planting your own tree, make sure you plant it in a place where it will get sufficient water and sun and where it will have room to grow to its full, lofty height.

Resources

• Arbor Association
• Trees Instead