sun rising burial ground

Burial in the Woodland

A grave plot bought in a woodland area gives the option of buying a memorial tree that can be planted on the grave. These are all native trees, locally grown, ensuring that what we are creating are pockets of strong and natural woodland.

As we began with an open field, the trees are still small, the first having been planted in 2006. However, in time, as the trees grow, the woodland areas will provide a restful and more private atmosphere, through which paths will meander.

During the summer months, path are strimmed along one side of the graves, allowing visitors to reach specific graves. Growth around the trees is cleared just enough to ensure the trees stay healthy.

Trees are planted in November or December. Families are invited to attend the planting, or indeed get involved and muddy, planting the tree themselves. A small slate memorial tree plaque can be bought to be placed beside the tree, marking the grave.

In the photograph here, you will see that woodland graves are sown with wildflowers. These will thrive only until the growing tree starts to cut out the light with its canopy.