Celebrate a Loved One’s Life with a Tree this Arbor Day

When a loved one passes, it can be difficult to find the best way to honor their memory. Planting a commemorative tree is a unique and touching tribute that will last for many lifetimes and serve as an enduring living legacy. If you are thinking about honoring a loved one by planting a tree this Arbor Day, read on for some helpful tips. 

Carefully consider the location:

• If you want to plant a tree in a special spot away from your home (in a place of rest, for example) get permission from the property holder in order to be respectful of the shared space.
• Many people like the idea of donating a memorial tree to a public institution loved be the departed, such as an alma mater or local park. In this scenario, it’s important that its location will be a blessing rather than a bother to locals in the community. Again, be sure to get permission from the school, agency or other governing body prior to planting your beautiful tree.
• No matter where you choose to plant your tree, be sure it’s in an area away from landscape features such as power lines, underground pipes and paved areas which can obstruct the growth of roots and branches.
• Another popular choice is to plant the memorial tree in a large outdoor pot. This allows for easy transportation if you should ever move.
• If you or the person you’re buying the tree for has a heavily shaded yard, don’t buy a one that requires full sun. Also, think twice about buying a very large tree, as not every yard can accommodate a tree of such size.
• To commemorate the life of a beloved pet, you may want to plant the living memorial in a favorite spot in the garden.

What type of tree or bush should you plant? When choosing your living tribute tree, it should not only be special, but also unique to the person you’re memorializing. Perhaps it blooms around the time of his or her birthday or passing. It could also reflect the relationship you shared or a memory of a certain time or special place. Or maybe it just seems fitting for your loved one’s personality. Here are some favorite trees and shrubs that make lovely memorials for a loved one or for a friend who’s grieving a loss:

• White lilac
• Dogwood
• Wisteria
• Magnolia (consider in particular the smaller types)
• Holly
• Japanese maple
• Crabapple
• Hydrangea 

Ask for help. If you’re unsure about what to choose, go to your local nursery and get some advice from the experts. They can assist you in choosing something that you or the recipient is most likely to have success in growing.

Consider including a personalized plaque. No matter where you plant your memorial tree, your message of love and admiration will be felt by all who see it. You can even personalize your memorial tree with a special message on an engraved plaque to share with others what the tree represents to you.

In addition to all of their environmental benefits, trees also offer healing attributes for those struggling with grief. Would you like more information about memorial trees or other celebration of life ideas? Our knowledgeable, compassionate funeral directors are here to help. Please reach out to our caring team anytime.

About Batchelor Brothers Funeral Services: As a leading African American-owned and operated funeral and cremation organization serving  three states, Batchelor Brothers Funeral Services has provided a ministry of care to thousands of grieving families. We promise to provide our highest level of distinguished service and respect to families who entrust us to honor their loved one. In all aspects of the funeral process, we strive to be the absolute best and are honored to help preserve our clients’ legacies for future generations.  For more information, please call us at 215-549-4700 or visit our website.