We tend to get involved to the day to day of life and forget that all life has a limited time on this planet — until we need to deal with loss. Losing a life close to us can be very painful. But one way to ease our loss is  to plant a tree in memorandum. It is a gently, green way to say goodbye to a friend, family member or even a beloved pet. And at the same time you are helping to grow another life and green the planet.

What better way to create a memorial to a precious life than by promoting and nurturing another life? You can add beauty to your landscape at the same time, and every time you look at your tree or shelter in its shade, you will fondly remember the life now gone. Planting a tree in memorandum is something you can do on your own property without paying rent or seeking permission. And as that tree grows, there is the feeling of comfort that your loved one is still part of your life.

As you celebrate your gift to someone who has passed away, you will also be helping to clean the air and provide a shelter for wildlife. But don’t feel you can’t plant a tree in memorandum if you don’t have a landscape or garden. There are organizations that will help you create your living memorandum in areas where forestation is needed.There are companies set up to help you plant a tree like Trees Instead or the American Arbor Day Foundation. These are two organizations which can help you channel your loss into new life. You can also call your local town or city to learn if it has a program for reforestation. They might help you plant your tree where it will be most needed.

Wherever you plant a tree in memorandum, make sure you choose a good location so the tree will grow to its full potential. Plant it where it has space to spread above and below ground to its mature height, where it will get sufficient water and where it will enjoy enough sun. You might even want to dedicate a live Christmas tree after the holidays into a new, planted home. Or move a small tree that needs a better position to grow well.

A small plaque or sign might carry a written dedication, or the honor can be done naturally with no announcement at all. Even the loss of a pet can be eased by planting a tree. Whether your loved one was human or not, consider planting a tree in memorandum to heal your heart while healing the planet.