Burying cremated ashes in your garden

It's common to bury ashes much like coffins are buried. Ashes can be buried in many places such as cemeteries, memorial gardens or even public land if you have permission to do so. But, have you ever thought about burying your loved one's ashes in your own garden?

Step 1. Choose a completely biodegradable cremation urn

In order to bury your loved one in your garden, you're going to need an urn which is made from completely eco-friendly ingredients. Due to the environmentally-friendly nature of biodegradable urns, when they are broken down to release your loved one's ashes into the Earth, they will not bring any harm to the surrounding environment.

There is a magnitude of biodegradable urns for land burial available, here we have showcased a few examples that we have available on our site.

We have our Eden Sphere Biodegradable Urn for Ashes. This urn is made from the fibre of olive stones which are bound together by plant extracts. The extracts contain phosphorus, nitrogen and other nutrients necessary to the development of plants.

When the biodegradable urn is buried within the soil, it slowly begins to merge with the environment. The nutrients from the plant extracts will stimulate the growth of plants and feed the soil.

Some families plant a tree next to the urn or on top of it, as the minerals will directly influence the growth of the tree, allowing it to develop into an everlasting symbol of your dearly departed.

Alternatively, you may wish to choose our Biodegradable Tree Urn for Ashes which is specifically designed to grow a tree from your loved one's ashes to cherish their memory.

Step 2. Choose a place in the garden

There are currently no rules on how the ashes have to be buried but it is advised to make sure it is a 'safe' place and that the ashes are buried at least three foot deep.

There may be other things you want to consider such as visibility from your bedroom window. Particularly if you are planning on growing a memorial tree, you will want to make sure the spot has rich soil, plenty of access to sunlight, away from any potential water flooding and with enough room to grow.

Step 3. Create your own memorial garden (optional)

It is a lovely tribute to dedicate a rockery or flower patch to your dearly departed angel. A loved one's ashes do not even need to be present for someone to create such a meaningful project in their honor. Other times the ashes are simply scattered over the top of the garden or they can be buried underneath.

You have complete creative freedom to choose what to do with your memorial garden. You may want to include your beloved's favourite flower, include personal items of theirs or keep photos there. You can always add and takeaway from the garden so it can always be changing if you like.

We have created a how to create a memorial garden article to help you along the way with your memorial garden journey.

Frequently asked questions

Can I bury ashes in my garden?

Yes, on your own land with the landowner's consent. A biodegradable urn is the natural choice and breaks down in the soil over months.

How deep should I bury ashes?

Around two to three feet is typical for a garden burial, deep enough to remain undisturbed.

Should I use a biodegradable urn?

For garden burial, yes. A biodegradable urn returns the ashes to the soil naturally, while a non-biodegradable urn would remain in the ground indefinitely.

What if I move house?

This is worth thinking about, since a garden burial stays with the property. Some families prefer a permanent site like a cemetery ashes plot, or keep a keepsake portion they can take with them.