Memorial trees

Also known as a tribute tree or remembrance tree, a memorial tree can help pay homage to a loved one in an eco-friendly and peaceful way. Typically seen as a lasting symbol of life, a memorial tree is planted and sometimes personalised in remembrance of the person who has died, giving family and friends a place to visit and feel close to them. People often scatter ashes at the site of the tree, or bury the ashes during planting, marking the tree as a memorial.

If you'd like to plant a tree for a loved one, you'll need to decide which type of tree you'd like. Common species include:

• Oak: a symbol of strength and knowledge.
• Dogwood: known to represent kindness, stability and determination.
• Silver birch: symbolic of new beginnings, regeneration and hope.
• Rowan: meaning protection and inspiration.
• Hazel: associated with wisdom and learning.
• Wild cherry: said to teach us to appreciate the time we share with loved ones.

Research the species and think about how large the tree will grow, the existing plant life around it, and when it will bloom. You may also want to plant a sapling rather than a seedling, as a more mature tree is more likely to take to its surroundings.

Many people protect their memorial tree from animals in the first year or so, by placing a mesh around the base of the trunk.

If you want to plant a tree for someone who has died, you can donate money to an organisation who will plant a memorial tree on your behalf.

Otherwise known as sponsoring a tree, this helps to grow forests, conservation areas and national parks. Many organisations let you choose the species of tree and will make sure you're able to visit whenever you like. The cost to plant a tree varies depending on its size, location and species.

Each conservation area has its own guidelines on plaques and scattering ashes, so check their rules before buying your tree.

Whether you choose private or public land to plant a memorial tree, you'll need the permission of the landowner. That can be a private owner, an organisation, or the local council. If you're planning on scattering ashes or burying them with the tree, you'll need to make sure you're the person who has the right to do so.

Think carefully about where you plant it. If you plant on private land and the owner later sells it, there's no guarantee the new owner will allow you to visit.

If you're burying ashes in an urn when planting the tree, different rules apply and you should contact the local council for guidance.

Most memorial trees can be personalised to include a special message. This message can be displayed on a memorial plaque either on, or near to, the tree.

Plaques can be made from a range of metals including aluminium, stainless steel and brass. The cost depends on the type of metal chosen and the size of the plaque.