One of the benefits of a traditional burial is that family and friends – and the progeny of the deceased – have a permanent resting place to visit. Families choosing cremation can also opt for a permanent memorial by burying the cremated remains in a cemetery or placing their loved one’s ashes in a columbarium niche. Another option that is growing in popularity is a cremation garden (sometimes called a scattering garden), which some cemeteries now offer.
Here’s what you need to know about cremation gardens – another option for permanent memorialization.
Benefits of Memorializing Your Loved One in a Cremation Garden
Before we discuss public scattering gardens, it’s worth mentioning that some families choose to scatter their loved one’s ashes on private property. They may add personalized memorial items and plant flowers – and add a bench.
While having your loved one’s remains close to you may give you peace, you must consider what you would do when forced to move from the property. A permanent memorial location is one of the main benefits of a public cremation garden. Cremation gardens or scattering gardens are typically located on cemetery grounds and give mourners a place for scattering ashes.
Cremation gardens offer a permanent place of remembrance.
Your local cemetery may offer a cremation garden. Like the rest of the cemetery property, scattering gardens are eternally maintained – providing a place for generations to go to reflect on the deceased’s life. After all, some family traditions involve regular trips to the cemetery for reflection and remembrance.
Please note that cremation gardens are not free. Part of your money for scattering rights goes toward upkeep and other amenities.
Most cremation gardens allow you to purchase a personalized memorial.
You may wonder why someone would pay to scatter their loved one’s remains in a scattering garden when so many free public spaces are available. One of the reasons that people choose cemetery scattering is that they want the opportunity to memorialize loved ones with a plaque or on a stone. Many feel at peace knowing their loved one’s permanent resting place is marked for eternity.
Memorial items vary from place to place but may include cremation benches designed to hold cremains while also providing seating areas for family members who visit. Some gardens also contain bronze niches, where cremated remains in urns may be stored.
Cremation trees offer a living legacy in your memorial garden.
For a unique and eco-friendly memorial option, many are turning to cremation tree pods in cremation gardens. This method involves a biodegradable urn that combines a loved one’s ashes with soil and a sapling, creating a living tribute as the tree grows over time.
Visitors to the cremation garden can find solace in this lasting, green memorial, witnessing the beauty of life continuing in a new form.
Scattering gardens are a place for peaceful reflection.
Cremation gardens are usually professionally designed and maintained. They typically provide a quiet space in nature that encourages you to take a break from busy schedules to focus on the brevity and wonder of life.
Seek Professional Advice When Planning a Cremation Service for Your Loved One
A local funeral director can help you find a cremation garden near you. If you are planning a cremation service for a loved one, contact Alabama Funeral Homes and Cremation Centers. We will advise you of the cemetery options in your local community and help you plan a unique, beautiful service for your loved one.
Key Takeaways: Scattering Garden Benefits
- Scattering gardens provide permanent resting places for families who choose cremation.
- Most cremation gardens allow you to purchase a personalized plaque or stone. Some have cremation benches.
- Scattering gardens are a quiet place for personal reflection and remembrance.
