More people are interested in alternatives to traditional burial methods than ever, with many people seeking options that leave a positive impact on the environment. One method that’s catching people’s attention is tree burial pods—a biodegradable option that’s designed to use remains to grow a tree. While this concept is often shown with striking visuals of a buried body blooming into a tree, whole-body burial pods aren’t yet a reality in the way many imagine. Currently, only cremated remains can be safely used to nurture new tree growth by being placed in a biodegradable urn.
These biodegradable urns can be buried on private land to create a living memorial for loved ones to return to for years to come. As society continues to look for ways to honor life with eco-friendly burial alternatives, tree burial pods present an evolving solution—one that reflects respect for nature while offering family and friends a beautiful tree to gather at.
If you are currently considering a natural end-of-life option, you may be wondering if this eco-friendly burial method is a good fit for you or your loved one. In this article, we explain more about tree pod burial so you can make an informed decision.
What is a Tree Burial Pod?
A tree burial pod is a sustainable alternative to traditional burial where remains are placed in a biodegradable pod that will one day grow into a tree. Currently, just a few companies are creating these tree burial pods and the science remains relatively new. There are two types of tree burial pods to choose from:
- Cremation Pods: Biodegradable urns that house ashes in a slow-degrading capsule. The urn can be buried either under an existing tree or with a tree seed or sapling that will grow over time. Saplings aren’t always included with these pods and may need to be purchased separately.
- Whole-body Pods: Only a concept at this time, a whole-body pod would hold a human body in a natural cloth much like a natural burial. In mockup images, these pods are often shown with a tree growing above the body. Capsula Mundi is still working on producing whole-body burial pods, but the timeline for when they will be available is unknown.
Why Use a Tree Burial Pod Instead of Just Planting a Tree Yourself?
When you plant a tree with ashes or a dead body, caring for that tree can be complicated. These complications exist with both tree burial pods and planting a new tree. In both cases, you want to make sure the tree has the proper nutrients to grow. Some tree burial pods may help you get the right mixture of soil, nutrients, and bacteria to help with the decomposition of a body/ashes.
If you decide to grow a sapling atop your burial pod, there are more risks to consider. The survival rate of planted saplings largely depends on region, species, and the presence of already mature trees in the vicinity. On average, roughly only 50% of tree saplings grow to become mature trees.
By utilizing an existing, mature tree for your final resting place, there is less worry that the tree will not survive. Learn how you can spread ashes beneath your own Memorial Tree in a private and protected forest.
How To Choose the Right Tree Burial Pod
When it comes to choosing a tree pod for yourself or a loved one, you should consider:
- Burial Pod Type: There are many restrictions and laws about where a deceased body or cremation ashes can be placed. Remember that only cremation ashes can be placed in a tree burial pod at this time, so the whole body pods might not be available on your timeline. Connect with a local cemetery to understand your options.
- Tree Preference: With most tree burial pods, you have the option of choosing a tree species. When choosing your tree, make sure to consider the climate and soil where you intend to plant your tree.
- Access: Wherever you bury your tree burial pod, make sure future access will be guaranteed. For example, if you plant a tree burial pod in your backyard, you won’t be able to visit if the house is sold.
The Benefits of Tree Burial Pods
Tree burial pods help families honor their loved ones in a way that has little or no negative impact on the environment, by using upcycled and biodegradable materials, such as polymer. Cremation-based pods can be made even more environmentally friendly if the body is processed by way of water cremation (or alkaline hydrolysis) which has a smaller carbon footprint than standard cremation.
When a tree grows from the tree burial pod, that tree will absorb carbon dioxide, help filter pollutants from the air, and serve as a food source and home to wildlife.
Additionally, tree burial pods give people peace of mind knowing that their loved one will physically be a part of nature’s cycle of life, symbolizing the continuity of life after death, and the interconnectedness of all living things.
How to Care for Your Tree Burial Pod
Caring for your tree burial pod is essential to ensure it grows into a strong, lasting tribute. Ensure your tree pod’s sapling has access to water, sunlight, and quality soil. Make sure your burial tree pod receives enough sunlight by choosing a location without obstructions of dense tree canopies that may overtake its resources. Healthy soil and mulch are also key.
Monitoring for pests and weeds is another important part of tree care. Regularly check for any signs of pests or invasive weeds that could compete for nutrients. Remove weeds by hand or use eco-friendly methods to control them, and consider environmentally safe pest treatments if needed. If your tree is a specific species with unique needs, follow any special care instructions provided.
In extreme weather, be mindful of your tree’s needs—additional watering during summer heat or temporary covering in freezing temperatures can protect it from harm. With the right attention, your tree burial pod will flourish, creating a beautiful, living memorial for generations to appreciate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Do Tree Burial Pods Cost?
For a basic biodegradable urn that you can plant in the ground, prices range from $69 – $370. For tree burial pods that utilize an entire body, you will need to consult with a local cemetery once they become available in the future.
What Happens if My Tree Dies?
According to Science Daily, approximately 18% of planted saplings die within the first year, and 44% die within the first 5 years. When deciding between a tree burial pod and a mature tree, we encourage you to think about tree survival rates and if it would be upsetting if your tree didn’t grow. No tree lives forever, but you can plant another tree close to where the other was.
What Tree Species Can I Choose?
It depends on where your tree will live! When choosing a species, we recommend choosing a species that grows naturally in the area you want to plant it. Unfortunately, this means you won’t be able to plant a Redwood tree in Texas.
Where Do I Plant My Tree Burial Pod?
We recommend thinking about two factors: ongoing access to the location and the ease of visiting for family and friends. If you plan on planting your tree pod on land other than private property, make sure you have the proper permits to do so.
Are Burial Pods Legal in the US?
Yes, cremation tree burial pods are legal in the United States. We recommend looking into your state’s specific regulations to learn the rules about use in your area.
Return to the Earth
If planted and cared for correctly, a tree burial pod can serve as a beautiful natural memorial for generations. We recommend discussing your plans for a tree burial pod with your loved ones to make sure that they choose the right tee and location to honor your life.
Some people also choose a Memorial Tree in a protected memorial forest. This option offers a serene environment for loved ones to honor your life at an already mature tree in a protected forest. To learn more, read why some families choose mature Memorial Trees instead of tree pods.
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