Planting a memorial tree is a great idea. It provides an focus for remembrance, it represents life going on and the passage of time.
Things to consider:
- You should plant a memorial tree that is native to the UK e.g. an Ash, Beech or Sessile Oak
- Consider the size and shape of the tree make sure reflects the landscape eg Spruce in Scotland
- Plant one that encourages wildlife eg Birch is a good all-round tree attracting many species of birds and insects
- You may also wish to consider the symbolism e.g. Rowan and Hazel trees hold a special place in British history and were used used in ancient druid/pagan ceremonies
- Consider how long the tree will they live for e.g. the Yew tree can live for a 1000 years, but the berries are poisonous so this is not often seen in hedgerows or fields.
- A number of companies operate memorial woodlands – they will plant and maintain a tree for you. Some of these woodland sites are for burial, some for ashes and some for both.
- If you are paying someone else to do it, check – is it your tree or is someone planting it anyway and you are paying for it to be dedicated? It depends what you want, but it isn’t the same thing. Generally a simple way to tell is the price – if it is your tree, planted on a space for you it will cost in the region of £500. If it is a dedication it will cost significantly less. You should check what you are getting for that money – replacement tree if it is necessary; access to the site; guarantee it will not be harvested on maturity.
- We have found one company in the Lake District that offers the full service in a cremation ash only woodland – Lake District memorial tree