FAQs
Understanding the Memorial
What is an Earthbound memorial?
An Earthbound memorial is a holistic approach to remembrance. It includes a living tree, carefully planted using a small portion of cremated remains, along with a private digital memorial page where memories can be shared over time.
How is the tree connected to my loved one’s ashes?
A small portion of the cremated remains is gently prepared and combined with specialist soil to create a balanced growing environment. The tree is planted into this mixture and cared for until it is established.
How much of the cremated remains are used in the memorial?
Only a small portion is used within the planting soil. The remaining ashes are placed within the memorial plinth, prepared as Family Keepsakes, or handled in another way agreed with you in advance.
What happens to the remaining cremated remains?
The remaining cremated remains are carefully placed within a sealed internal vessel, known as the memorial plinth, which sits discreetly within the planter.
Can the memorial be kept indoors or outdoors?
Yes. Each tree is selected with its environment in mind. Some are suited to indoor spaces, while others are better outdoors. Guidance is provided to help you choose.
How do I choose the right tree?
Each tree includes guidance on its environment and level of care, allowing you to choose something that fits naturally into your home or garden.
Will the tree continue to grow over time?
Yes. The memorial is a living tree and will continue to grow with care.
Can the memorial be moved if I relocate?
Yes. The memorial is designed to remain portable and can move with you.
The memorial structure
What is the memorial plinth?
At the base of each memorial sits a sealed stone vessel known as the memorial plinth. It holds the cremated remains not used within the planting soil or prepared as keepsakes.
Is the memorial plinth visible?
No. It sits beneath the tree and is not visible once assembled.
Is the plinth sealed?
Yes. It is permanently sealed to ensure the cremated remains remain secure and undisturbed.
Does the tree grow into the plinth?
No. The tree grows within its own planting environment above the plinth.
Will I ever need to open or access the plinth?
No. It is designed to remain sealed as part of the memorial.
What happens if the tree needs repotting?
The memorial can be re-potted without disturbing the plinth or the cremated remains. Full instructions are provided.
The process
What happens after I request a memorial?
We will contact you to confirm details, arrange collection of cremated remains, and agree delivery and timing. Nothing proceeds until everything has been agreed with you.
How are cremated remains collected?
We can collect from your home, a funeral director, or a crematorium. Collection is arranged with care and with the appropriate permissions in place.
Do I need to collect the ashes myself?
No. We can handle this for you.
How are the ashes prepared before planting?
Cremated remains are carefully balanced with specialist soil to create a suitable growing environment.
How long does the process take?
Typically up to six weeks, allowing time for preparation, planting, and initial establishment.
Will I be kept informed throughout?
Yes. We will stay in touch at key stages and ensure you know what is happening.
Family considerations
Can other family members be involved?
Yes. The memorial is often something shared between family members.
Can ashes be shared between family members?
Yes. We can prepare small, separate amounts as Family Keepsakes if requested.
What are Family Keepsakes?
Family Keepsakes are small, separately prepared amounts of cremated remains, provided in sealed vessels for personal keeping or private scattering.
Can I request more than two keepsakes?
We currently offer one as standard but can create more for other family members, should you so wish.
Can keepsakes be sent to different addresses?
No. All keepsakes are delivered together with the memorial to a single address.
Woodland scattering
Is woodland scattering available?
For those who do not want to retain any ashes at all we offer this service, however it is not widely advertised.
Where does woodland scattering take place?
Within private woodland where appropriate permission has been obtained.
Can the woodland site be visited?
No. These locations are not memorial sites and are not accessible to visit.
What happens once the ashes have been scattered?
We will confirm with you in advance when the scattering will take place. Afterwards, we will notify you that it has been carried out.
Can ashes be recovered after scattering?
No. Once scattered, cremated remains cannot be recovered.
Delivery and location
Where do you deliver?
We personally deliver within a 30-mile radius of our base.
Is delivery included?
Yes, within our local delivery area.
What happens if I live outside your delivery area?
We will review options with you and explore whether a suitable delivery method can be arranged. Additional costs may apply depending on location.
Why can’t standard couriers be used?
Because the memorial contains cremated remains, standard courier services are not always appropriate.
Will I need to be present for delivery?
Yes, where possible, so we can ensure the memorial is received with care.
Care and longevity
How do I care for the tree?
Each tree comes with guidance suited to its type and environment.
What happens if the tree becomes unwell?
We will always try to advise where we can, but ongoing care is the responsibility of the recipient.
Will I need to repot the tree?
Yes, over time. The memorial is designed so this can be done without disturbing its structure. Detailed instructions are included.
If something happens to the tree
What happens if the tree becomes unwell?
As with any living plant, there may be times when the tree shows signs of stress or becomes unwell. We provide guidance and are available to help.
What support do you offer after delivery?
Ongoing support is available if you need it. You can contact us and we will offer guidance where we can.
What if I’m unsure how to care for the memorial?
We are here to help you understand what the tree needs and how best to support it.
What happens if the tree dies?
If the tree does not survive, the memorial itself remains intact. The cremated remains are safely held within the memorial plinth.
Can the memorial be recreated if this happens?
Yes. A new tree can be planted using a small amount of cremated remains, typically from the Family Keepsake returned to you.
Will the ashes still be safe if the tree fails?
Yes. The cremated remains remain sealed and undisturbed within the memorial plinth.
The memorial page
What is the memorial page?
A private digital space where family and friends can share memories over time.
Who can access and contribute?
The page can be shared with family and friends, and multiple people can contribute.
How is the page managed over time?
The primary account holder manages access. Responsibility can be transferred if needed.
How long is it included?
Three years from when it becomes available.
What happens if we choose not to continue?
The page is archived and can be restored later if required.
Pricing & payment
What is included in the price?
The full service, including collection, preparation, planting, delivery, memorial components, and digital memorial page.
When do I pay?
Local customers pay at checkout. Outside the area, payment is taken after delivery arrangements are agreed.
Practical considerations
What if I am not ready yet?
There is no expectation to proceed. We are here when the time feels right.
Can I speak to someone first?
Yes. You are always welcome to get in touch.
What if something arrives damaged?
Please contact us within 48 hours and we will resolve it with you.
Environmental considerations
Is this an environmentally responsible option?
Yes. The memorial is designed to work with natural processes and living systems.
