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Adding cremains to the soil around an established tree?

Hello! I searched through past discussions of how to plant something new and incorporate human cremation ashes, but I didn’t see any advice regarding adding cremains to the soil around an established tree.

My mother died a year ago, and my dad and I opted to wait on deciding what to do with her cremains. They’re safely resting in the plastic bag and cardboard box we brought them home in, inside a lovely carved box for now. But my dad suggested, and I agree, that we find out whether we can use them to amend the soil around the great big oak tree in the garden outside his house. My mom loved the garden, but she really, really loved that tree! She was a painter, and she dedicated numerous canvases to that oak tree.

Do you folks have any suggestions or warnings?

Posts

  • philippasmith2philippasmith2 Posts: 3,742
    Scattering your Mum's ashes around the oak tree shouldn't be a problem.  Rake the ashes lightly into the soil and leave your Mum to blend in with her much beloved tree.
    If the Oak is not actually on your Gad's property, you could always check with the local council before doing anything.
  • fidgetbonesfidgetbones Posts: 17,618
    I would mix them up well with a  trug full of compost  before scattering. That way there is less likely to be  a concentrated clump.
  • JennyJJennyJ Posts: 10,576
    Maybe water in as well, because the rain won't get through the canopy once the tree is in leaf.
    Doncaster, South Yorkshire. Soil type: sandy, well-drained
  • I think it's definitely worth a try, just make sure you check with local authorities just in case it's prohibited in your area. You can also look into adding some other natural elements like nitrogen or phosphorus, which might help the tree flourish even more. Overall, I'd say it's a lovely idea of celebrating her love for nature and that beautiful oak tree.
  • Thanks to all of you who responded, these are exactly the things I needed to know and keep in mind! And yes, the tree is in my dad's garden. And the state and county laws, where he lives and owns his home, are actually pretty progressive on this front!

    I'll follow up (might be later this year, or further on) when we have had a chance to gather some of her favorite people and contribute some of what she left behind to a tree that so inspired her.
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