Planting Memorial Trees is a meaningful way to honor the memory of a loved one while helping restore forests in need. Below you’ll find answers to common questions about how the Memorial Tree program works and what to expect when placing your order.
How Do I Plant Memorial Trees?
We offer two convenient ways to place an order for Memorial Trees to honor a loved one:
Online: You can place an order through our online Sympathy Store to plant trees in memory of a loved one
By Phone: Call us at 888-303-5240 and a member of our team will help you with your order
What’s Included With My Memorial Trees Order?
Your order includes more than just the planting of trees. You’ll also receive:
A customized digital certificate, sent via email, which you can print or share with the family
An entry in the online Guest Book (if applicable), noting your contribution
A listing in the official Memorial Tree Registry, showing that trees were planted in your loved one’s honor
Who Plants the Trees?
Memorial Trees are planted by the Arbor Day Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, a collaboration that has been in place for over 40 years. All trees are planted and cared for by contracted forestry professionals, under the supervision of on-site foresters.
Can I Choose the Location or Type of Tree?
To ensure the greatest environmental impact, our reforestation partners plant trees in the area of greatest need and according to the annual reforestation schedule.
You won’t be able to select a specific location or tree species.
What Types of Trees Are Planted?
The species planted are native to the specific region, chosen based on the needs of each forest. Most often, native evergreen trees are planted to restore areas affected by wildfire or other natural events.
When Will the Trees Be Planted?
Trees are planted during the optimal planting seasons for each region -- typically in the spring or the fall. This timing ensures the best chance of survival and long-term growth.
Will There Be a Plaque or Sign?
No physical plaque or sign will be placed next to the trees. However, all Memorial Tree plantings are officially recorded in the Memorial Tree Registry, which is updated monthly at arborday.org/registry.
Can I Visit the Memorial Tree?
Because Memorial Trees are planted in remote or protected reforestation areas, visiting a specific tree is not recommended. These areas often lack access for visitors, do not mark individual trees, and are located in terrain that can be challenging or unsafe to navigate
If you have additional questions about Memorial Trees or would like assistance placing an order, please reach out to us by chat, via email at [email protected] or by phone at 888-303-5240. We’re here to help you honor your loved one in a way that gives back to the earth for generations to come.