By If I had a bitcoin for every time someone excitedly expressed the desire to “become” a tree after they die, I’d be annotating this piece to my robot butler from my very own tropical island…
Yes, we completely understand the comforting visual of your decaying body (somehow) nourishing and feeding a growing tree (we are made up of 70% water, right?). We are however deeply saddened to inform you that you may need to rethink your green end-of-life plans.
In this guest piece, authored by our friends at Life Forest, we dig into the ~root~ of this misconception, and provide actual green(ish) disposition options that can incorporate our beloved trees.
How to Become a Tree when you Die – Debunked
Where did the idea of tree burial originate?
The modern idea of becoming a tree post-mortem was pioneered by Capsula Mundi, whose capsul was designed to bring people closer to nature. Capsula Mundi proposed an egg-shaped biodegradable pod where people are placed in the fetal position and buried underneath a tree of their choice. “In a culture that is far removed from nature, overloaded with objects, and focused on youth, death is often dealt with as a taboo,” said Capsula Mundi founders Citelli and Bretzel.
“The biological life cycle and its transformations are the same for every living being. It is time for humans to realize our integrated part in nature,” they explained. “Capsula Mundi wants to emphasize that we are a part of nature’s cycle of transformation.”
Capsula Mundi began as an art installation and has not been produced as a purchasable product for full body burial. It was designed to open our minds to death and dying. Currently, Capsula Mundi produces and sells biodegradable urns for burying cremated remains.
Misconceptions about “becoming a tree”
In general, the biggest misconception about becoming a tree is that your body helps the tree thrive. People are led to believe that their ashes are feeding and nourishing the tree, and the remains become integrated into the root system. Unfortunately, that is not the case. Cremated remains, in particular, can actually harm immature trees. Cremains are alkaline based and extremely salty, which dehydrates the tree. If you were to put ashes directly under a young tree, it most likely will not survive, yet alone thrive.
It may be best to view the tree as a commemoration of the life of the deceased, versus that person truly becoming part of the tree. Some companies offering solutions to incorporate cremains may provide a product where the cremains are separated from the tree roots themselves. Others provide a proprietary mixture of materials that are combined with remains to neutralize the alkalinity to help amend the soil for better tree growth.
What then, is the best way to plant a tree above cremation remains under a tree?
At Life Forest, in Hillsborough, NH, cremated remains are planted alongside a memorial tree. We are able to do so successfully after undertaking a lot of research, testing and consultations with arborists. Here is how we do it.
Memorial trees are selected in their “teenage” years, ensuring they have an established root system to safeguard tree survival after planting. We have performed soil analyses and we know what types of trees will succeed at Life Forest. We also understand how our trees grow (do the roots grow side to side or downward?) and what the needs of those trees are (sun and water requirements). Using a rich natural organic compost material is also essential, as well as protecting the roots from the cremains. To do this, ashes are placed 18 inches below the root ball of the tree. We separate the cremains from the root ball using a piece of 100% wool. Upon biodegrading, the wool becomes a natural rich compost for the burial tree. In the situations where people don’t want to see the cremains placed directly in the ground, we place the cremains in biodegradable bamboo baskets before burying.
Life Forest has also developed a way to add additional cremains to an already planted memorial tree later on in a safe way too. By placing a piece of slate in the ground against the root ball during the initial planting, as the tree grows, roots reach the slate and grow around it to create a cavern of space (just as a tree would do in nature if it encountered a big rock in the soil). We can then safely dig into that space and place additional cremains on future occasions.
The challenge of full-body tree burial
At Life Forest, we have chosen not to perform full body burials at this time. We are not sure that we could perform natural full body burials underneath freshly planted trees in our location due to safety and cemetery burial law concerns. Primarily, part of the tree planting process involves a large amount of watering early on (up to 6 gallons a day per tree), creating a wetland environment that may not comply with cemetery rules for burial.
Placing a large tree root ball directly on top of an unembalmed loved one during a service would not be the most pleasant experience for those in attendance. The initial watering of the tree root ball involves filling the entirety of the hole with water, another potentially unpleasant sight. Water also causes another important concern. As explained by full body animal composting expert Michelle Melaragno, adding water to an environment lowers the temperature of the soil and disrupts the body’s decomposition process. Additionally, young root growth could be disrupted by the presence of the body or could push remains toward the surface as the tree grows.
The idea of performing a natural full body burial beneath a tree is not implausible, however. One could absolutely bury a body beside an already established tree. Many cemeteries that allow natural full body burials do so in places where traditional burials may not be feasible (due to the presence of a concrete vault and requirement for more space in a traditional burial).
Natural burials are typically dug at a depth of 3-4 feet and can be done in smaller spaces, such as between large tree root systems. Alternatively, natural burials may be commemorated by planting small shrubs or wildflowers nearby. A key goal of natural burial is to disturb the environment as little as possible and to work with the land as it is; planting a tree in a heavily wooded area will only disrupt the flora and fauna.
So you want to become a tree when you die? Here are the questions you should ask your funeral provider:
- How do you protect my access rights to the tree?
- Where and how is the information with regards to my particular tree kept, and how do I access that information?
- Do you have a tree replacement plan if my tree does not thrive?
- Do you deed record my loved one’s burial and will you provide me with a book and page number with my loved one’s information from the registry of deeds?
- Do my beneficiaries have rights 100 years from now to replace the tree and please explain how those rights are legally protected for future generations?
- What are your spacing requirements between trees and how was that determined?
- How do you protect the root system of my tree when digging future burials?
Conclusion
At the end of the day, we must listen to the science and perform tree-oriented burials properly and with respect to the deceased and to the environment. It is important to do your research when it comes to disposition choices. Taking a forest, and trying to plant a whole bunch of bodies in it, will ultimately disrupt nature.
We must not forget that natural and conservation burial is meant to do the least harm to our land. Pay attention to how a cemetery, company, or service preserves the land where a tree will be planted, and protect that tree for many, many years to come.
Have more questions about tree burial?
Life Forest cemetery can also guide you with help on safe tree burial options, you may contact them at www.thelifeforest.com.
Do the comments here about cremated remains refer to water cremation or fire cremation or both?
This is an excellent question Susie. The comments here were in direct reference to fire cremation. Life Forest has not tested any cremains that were produced by water cremation, so that research would need to be done prior to making and assumptions.
How about spreading the composted remains around a tree? That sounds to me like the most suitable way of actually becoming the tree and nurturing it as well.
I had an amazing experience with New Assignment Help Australia. The academic guidance I received was beyond my expectations. The Assignment Help solutions they provided were insightful, well-researched, and professionally formatted. The writers understood the topic thoroughly and followed all my requirements precisely. It was a huge relief to receive such high-quality work without any plagiarism issues. I also liked how responsive their support team was whenever I had a query. If you are looking for genuine academic assistance, I highly recommend giving them a try!
For those struggling with their coursework, nursing assignment help Australia offers professional guidance to ensure well-structured, plagiarism-free, and high-quality assignments. Expert assistance can help students understand complex medical concepts, improve their writing skills, and meet university standards effectively. Whether it’s case studies, research papers, or evidence-based practice reports, seeking help can ease the pressure and enhance academic performance.
I am really struggling with my assignments and the data analysis part is becoming too complicated for me to handle. No matter how much I try I keep making errors in my calculations and interpretations. SPSS Assignment Help is something I desperately need because I find it difficult to choose the right statistical tests and analyze the results correctly. I hope to improve my skills with proper guidance.
This article provides such an interesting perspective on eco-friendly burial options! It’s great to see discussions around sustainable alternatives to traditional burial methods. Similarly, platforms like Dark Aesthetic Bio for Girls
help people craft unique and meaningful social media bios, allowing them to express their values and interests—including sustainability and environmental consciousness.
I appreciate the myth-busting approach in this article—it’s important to have clear and factual information about eco-friendly burial choices. It’s fascinating how different cultures approach death and memorialization. Additionally, platforms like Insight Taiwan provide deep insights into cultural and societal trends, helping us better understand how traditions and modern practices evolve across the world.
Respecting nature is key—just like respecting the road in Drift Boss. Every turn you take must be calculated and precise, or else you risk veering off course. Ready to test your control and navigate through the twists ahead?
Users love platforms that respect their time, and the Lotus365 Login reflects that mindset. Everything is optimized for a quick entry. No fluff, just function. A great way to start your session.
User-friendly design shows up right away with the smooth Lotus365 Login process. No waiting, no lag just quick access that works anywhere. It’s how digital platforms should be built.
Becoming a Tree when your Die is a nice post, and there are a lot of people searching for the best ideas and the solutions that we require. When I got the details here http://www.glenelgpressurecleaning.com.au I saw the people wanted to learn how to deal with it to get the desired solutions.
QuickBooks Integrations Online Accounting Software Usa. Qbis Helps You To Sync Your Data With Quickbooks Online As Well As Quickbooks Desktop.
QuickBooks Integrations
Fresh poppy pods are the seed pods that are harvested from the poppy flower. Poppies are known for their beautiful flowers, but it’s their seed pods that are of the most value. These pods contain the seeds for the next crop and, when dried, they are frequently used in floral arrangements and other decorative crafts. By using fresh poppy pods, you can take your art to the next level as it gives a natural and pleasant look to your creations.
Our focus on firearms and shooting related equipment allows us to buy in large quantities, and pass the savings to you. Everyone who works at Universalguns, from the owners to the shipping crew, are shooters first. We absolutely love what we do!
Our journey began with a simple, irresistible love for Maine Coon kittens for sale. Today, we operate under the brand name “Adorable Claw”, proudly pitting ourselves as one of the credible and well-established breeders in the industry. At our core, we specialize in the sale of superior quality, pedigree Maine Coon kittens, distinguishing ourselves through our passion, commitment, and exceptional standards.
We live in a rapid world where the development of technology is faster than the creative development of mankind. This causes a rigid view of the world that leads to tunnel vision, a lot of misunderstanding, and problems. Buy magic mushrooms
Suchen Sie nicht weiter als unter , Ihre Go-to-Quelle für Premium-Fälschungen, Führerscheine Kosten und IDs.
Meanwhile, you still have questions. What is a black truffle? What is a white truffle? Are truffles the same thing as mushrooms or aren’t they? Is it true that truffles look like poop?
Welcome to Drivers License UK, your trusted source for obtaining a provisional driving license in the UK. Whether you’re a new driver, a visitor, or a resident looking to start your journey, we make the UK driving license process straightforward and hassle-free. Explore our resources, guidance, and essential steps below.
We have been destroying the forests for whatever reasons for many years. Forests that work much like our lungs It is a long established fact that a reader.
Our Mini Highland cows for are also highly adaptable to various climates and environments. Whether you’re located in a hot, humid region or a cold, mountainous area, these hardy cattle thrive in diverse conditions.
sprzedawcadrewna.com is trading and manufacturing company. Company is operating with wood material such as: timbers, lumbers, round logs, pellets, wood chips, firewood and other material since 2006. We have more than 200 suppliers in different countries. sprzedawcadrewna.com has become one of the largest and most successful companies in Poland in this field.
Whiskey Online Store Inc, was started from family-owned business founded in 1993 nestled in a nostalgic liquor store in the heart of our nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. Serving specialty-buying customers around the country for more than two decades and generations with hand crafted, quality liquor for enjoyment and private collections
While the idea of becoming a tree after death is appealing, this article provides a realistic perspective on the challenges involved, prompting a necessary discussion about sustainable end-of-life options.
Find the best primary care physician in Dallas and Garland, TX. Expert care and personalized health management for your well-being.
Wow, I always thought turning into a tree after death was a real option! Good to know the truth behind it. Still, it’s a cool idea to think about, even if it’s not exactly how I imagined crazy cattle 3d .
Ready to run through space? Enter Run 3 and explore each challenging planet!
how to reduce butt fat How To Decrease Butt Fat By Exercise For Men And Women At Home
how to reduce butt fat
Click on the link and poojapathak.in make your day special…
Lotus365 is an impressive online gaming platform that offers a smooth and enjoyable experience for sports and game lovers. Its easy-to-use interface and wide range of features make it a top choice for online entertainment.
This article does a great job of breaking down the myths around tree burials and highlighting the science behind eco-friendly end-of-life options. It’s eye-opening to learn how cremains can actually harm young trees and how thoughtful planning—like Life Forest’s approach—can make a meaningful difference. Just as environmental decisions require accurate information, students seeking Marketing Assignment Help also benefit from well-researched, reliable resources to make informed choices in their studies.
With Most bet, players get a trusted platform that’s easy to use and full of options. Whether you’re into casino games or fast-paced titles like Aviator, there’s always action waiting. Join today and see why so many choose Mostbet to stay entertained.
The Aviator Game is a fast-paced and exciting online experience where a plane takes off and players aim to cash out at the right moment. The longer the flight, the higher the multiplier climbs. With its simple gameplay and real-time action, the Aviator Game offers thrilling entertainment for everyone.
Ultra Win is a trusted platform known for its easy interface, exciting games, and smooth mobile access. Whether you’re playing casual games or aiming for big wins, it delivers a complete experience. Try it once, and you’ll see why players keep coming back.
Reddy Anna is a trusted name known for offering reliable online access and smooth gameplay experiences. Whether you’re a casual player or a regular user, the platform supports easy login and account handling. It’s simple, fast, and built with user comfort in mind.
Laser247 is a dynamic online platform that brings you live sports updates, interactive games, and engaging digital experiences. Designed for smooth performance and easy access, it offers a secure and user-friendly environment. Whether you’re into real-time action or skill-based challenges, Laser247 has something for everyone. Enjoy nonstop entertainment anytime, anywhere with Laser247.
Laser247 is a vibrant online platform that delivers real-time sports updates, interactive games, and smooth digital experiences. Built for convenience and performance, it ensures fast access and secure navigation across all devices. Whether you’re following live action or enjoying skill-based play, Laser247 keeps the entertainment flowing. Stay connected and explore a world of nonstop fun anytime, anywhere.
This is a cool article! I always thought you could just become a tree after cremation, but turns out it’s not that simple. Brainrot Clicker Good to know there are other eco-friendly options though.
Reddybook is a dynamic online platform offering real-time sports updates, engaging games, and interactive features. With a user-friendly interface and seamless navigation, it delivers a smooth and secure digital experience. Whether you’re tracking live action or exploring skill-based challenges, Reddybook keeps the excitement going. Enjoy nonstop entertainment anytime, anywhere with Reddybook.
Reddybook is an all-in-one digital platform that brings you live sports updates, interactive features, and engaging entertainment. It offers a smooth and secure experience across devices with a simple and intuitive interface. Whether you’re following your favorite games or exploring exciting challenges, Reddybook keeps you connected. Enjoy non-stop fun and real-time action anytime, anywhere.
fairplay is a feature-packed online platform that offers real-time sports updates, interactive games, and engaging digital experiences. With a clean interface and secure access, it ensures smooth performance across all your devices. Whether you’re following live action or exploring skill-based challenges, Fairplay keeps the excitement going. Enjoy seamless entertainment anytime, anywhere with Fairplay.
99exch is a dynamic online platform designed for sports enthusiasts and game lovers. It offers real-time match insights, interactive features, and a user-friendly experience across devices. With fast performance and secure access, 99exch brings nonstop excitement to your screen. Explore a world of entertainment and stay connected to your favorite sports with 99exch.
1win is an all-in-one digital platform offering thrilling sports action, interactive games, and engaging features. With a sleek interface and smooth performance, it ensures an exciting experience across all devices. Stay updated with real-time match highlights and explore a variety of games. 1win is your go-to destination for non-stop entertainment and fun.
Winbuzz is a dynamic online platform that delivers high-energy sports action and a wide range of interactive games. Designed for smooth performance, it offers a seamless experience across mobile and desktop. With real-time updates and immersive features, Winbuzz keeps users engaged and entertained. It’s your ultimate hub for sports excitement and digital fun.