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Help the Environment Without Getting Your Hands Dirty: Gift a Tree

New tree plantings

 

Blog Summary – Key Points Covered

Help the Environment Without Getting Your Hands Dirty: Gift a Tree

1. The planet is losing billions of trees annually
2. The benefits and importance of trees
3. How you can help the environment
4. Gift a Tree: A uniquely personal and non-materialistic gift
5. The Gifted Tree makes it easy to plant a tree and help the environment

 

A question that several customers have asked recently is “How can I help the environment?” I admit that my answer is a bit biased, some will say there is a bit conflict of interest, but it is a solution one can accomplish without getting their hands dirty – gift a tree. Any number in the billions is a hard number to comprehend, but every year the earth has a net decline of approximately 10 billion trees. This number is derived from reports compiled by the World Resources Institute and the Food and Agriculture Organization. This number is a net figure, arrived at by the planet’s losing approximately 15 billion trees a year whereas only 5 billion a year are planted. There are several factors contributing to this number. Some we are quite familiar with, such as the result of forest fires and clear cutting of swaths of trees for wood. Other factors don’t come to mind quite as easily such as disease, agriculture space requirements, and urbanization – making space to build new homes. No matter what the reason, the impact from this tree loss is devastating. The loss of trees has significant consequences, including releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, damaging ecosystems, causing biodiversity loss, and reducing the Earth’s capacity to absorb carbon.

How Does Planting Trees Help the Environment?

Trees are important to the earth, and provide many benefits, some of which are listed below in no particular order:

  1. Trees absorb CO2 gases helping offset the effects of climate change.
  2. Trees provide oxygen and clean the air at the same time.
  3. Tree coverage helps cool by day and retain heat at night thus conserving energy.
  4. Trees act as natural water filters, reduce soil erosion, and help prevent flooding.
  5. Trees help increase property values and beautify communities.
  6. Trees provide a habitat for the world’s plants and animals to, if not thrive, at least survive.
  7. Trees can provide food for both humans and animals.
  8. Trees provide many health benefits including shielding us from harmful ultra-violet rays.
  9. Trees create economic opportunities, especially in impoverished areas around the world.
  10. Trees provide shade so we can enjoy a picnic.

In summary, trees are simply amazing. They clean air and water, reverse the impact of land degradation, prevent species loss, and ease poverty by helping communities achieve long-term economic sustainability by providing food, energy, and income. Finally, planting trees is one of the easiest and most important ways to help stave off the effects of climate change. Unfortunately, however, not everyone has the capacity or the resources to plant a tree. The Gifted Tree makes it easy to plant a tree without getting your hands dirty and help the environment at the same time.

Tree planting river side to help promote water quality.

When you order a gift tree through The Gifted Tree, the company works with long-term, vetted non-profit planting partners to have your tree or trees planted in over 80 tree planting projects around the world and send out unique, hand-crafted tribute cards announcing the commemorative tree planting. These planting partners have certified arborists on the ground who determine the best species of trees to plant, the best time(s) of the year to plant them and oversee the tree planting sessions. They then monitor the site conditions for a period of time to ensure the long-term survivability of the planted trees, always the ultimate goal when we plat a tree. You get the benefits of a planted tree without having to get your hands in the dirt and mud!

Your tree planting through The Gifted Tree is not only a unique gift helping a loved one during a time of grieving or celebrating one of life’s milestone events, but you are also helping make the planet a better place for future generations. Helping the environment and humanity-all of this is possible with a tree gift. Amazing, simple and easy!

Ireland-Gift-Tree-Planting-Project

 

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Why You Should Consider Giving a Tree as a Wedding or Anniversary Gift

 

 

Wedding Couple Embracing in the Forest

Blog Summary – Key Points Covered Regarding

Why You Should Consider Planting a Gift Tree For a Wedding or Anniversary

1. A gift that is a symbol of growth, love, and commitment
2. A gift that is an enduring legacy
3. A gift that has environmental and sustainability benefits
4. A uniquely personal and non-materialistic gift
5. The Gifted Tree makes it easy to plant a wedding and anniversary gift tree

 

In my last blog, I expounded on why planting a gift tree for birthdays was a brilliant idea. Today, I will illustrate why planting a tree for a wedding or anniversary gift also makes a special and unforgettable gift. While planting a tree to honor a loved one who has passed is still the number one reason while people plant gift trees, planting for a celebration is becoming more popular. And what better reason to celebrate with a tree planting than to celebrate a wedding or anniversary? Wedding and anniversary trees provide deep meaning and go well beyond your typical registry gift, or even cash. Here are some reasons why it’s such a beautiful and lasting gesture:

Wedding Trees – A Gift That Grows With Their Love

1. Symbol of Growth and Commitment

Just like a marriage, a tree starts with strong roots and flourishes over time. It represents the couple’s journey together—growing, weathering storms, and thriving in the years to come.

2. A Living Legacy

Unlike traditional gifts that may wear out or be forgotten, a tree continues to live, grow, and give back for decades, even centuries. It becomes a permanent reminder of the couple’s special day.

3. Environmental Contribution

A tree is not only a personal gift but also a gift to the earth. It cleans the air, provides shade, supports wildlife, and contributes to a healthier environment—a way for the couple’s love to have a positive impact.

4. Unique and Personal

While many wedding gifts are items from a registry, a tree is unexpected, heartfelt, and deeply symbolic. It shows thoughtfulness and creativity, standing apart from typical material gifts.

5. Cultural and Spiritual Meaning

Across cultures, trees represent life, fertility, resilience, and wisdom. Gifting a tree honors those timeless values and ties them to the couple’s union.

In essence, a tree is more than a gift—it’s a story, a symbol, and a legacy that grows alongside the couple’s marriage.

Anniversary Trees – A Growing Tribute to Their Journey

1. A Living Symbol of Love

Just as love grows stronger over time, a tree grows taller and deeper rooted each year. Planting one on an anniversary represents the couple’s ongoing journey—steady, resilient, and flourishing.

2. Marking Milestones

Each anniversary becomes a chance to plant another tree, and reflect on how far the relationship has come. It becomes a natural marker of shared years together. Furthermore, anniversary gifts are often themed by the year, with a mix of traditional and modern themes. For example, the 1st anniversary is traditionally paper while the 5th is wood. A gift tree fits perfectly with those themes.

3. A Lasting Legacy

While flowers fade and material gifts wear out, a tree lives on for decades. It creates a living legacy of the couple’s love that future generations can cherish.

4. A Gift to the World

As with the wedding tree, the anniversary tree planting not only honors the couple but also benefits the planet. It purifies the air, provides shade, supports wildlife, and contributes to a healthier earth—turning love into a gift for the future.

5. Uniquely Personal

Unlike typical anniversary presents, a tree is thoughtful, meaningful, and enduring. Every time the couple thinks about it, they’ll be reminded of their bond.

In essence, a tree is not just an anniversary gift—it’s a growing testament to love, resilience, and the life two people continue to build together.

The Gifted Tree makes it as easy as 1,2,3 to order a wedding and anniversary tree gift. Show them how special they are in your life and make a first-rate impression that will earn you major kudos.

Anniversary Couple Embracing overlooking a forest scene

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Why You Should Consider Giving a Gift Tree for a Birthday

Planting a birthday tree

Blog Summary – Key Point Covered

Looking for a birthday gift that’s meaningful, lasting, and good for the planet?
In this post, we’ll explore why planting a tree is one of the most unique and impactful birthday gifts you can give.

1. A Gift That Keeps Giving
2. Environmentally Friendly and Sustainable Gift
3. A Gift That is a Living Metaphor for Life
4. A Unique and Non-Materialistic Gift
5. The Gifted Tree Makes It Easy To Plant a Birthday Gift Tree

Giving a gift tree for a birthday — or even to mark the birth of a newborn — is a beautiful, thoughtful gesture that grows in significance over time.

 

Planting trees in memory of a loved one has become quite popular, but customers I speak with are always excited when I let them know that planting a gift tree to celebrate a birthday or the birth of a new born is also a good idea. It is not that they have discounted the notion in the past, but more that they have just not considered it. Once I plant the seed in their mind, pun intended, they give me two thumbs up. “I wish I would have thought of that before!”

Now that the thought is growing in your mind, I will further elaborate on why you should plant a tree to celebrate a birthday and why it is an excellent and meaningful gift.

Birthday cake in the forest

A Gift That Keeps Giving

Planting a tree in celebration of a birthday is the gift that keeps giving. Unlike most birthday gifts that break, fall out of favor, or get forgotten, a tree continues to grow for years, sometimes decades or even centuries. That means:

  • The recipient is reminded of your gift year after year.
  • It contributes beauty and value to the world.
  • It can be enjoyed by future generations.If the gift is given in celebration of a newborn, that baby will grow up, and now the celebration tree is also growing right along with him or her. Furthermore, you have a built-in birthday gift for life as you can have a tree planted for each subsequent birthday. Before you know, a whole grove will be growing in the same area. You will no longer have to struggle coming up with a birthday gift idea year after year, just have a new tree planted and send a tribute card announcing the planting.

Environmentally Friendly and Sustainable

In an age where people are increasingly aware of being green, a tree is an eco-conscious gift. One tree can:

  • Absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen.
  • Improve air quality.
  • Help combat climate change.
  • Help improve water quality
  • Support biodiversity by providing food and shelter for animals, birds and insects.

Thus, while you are giving a gift to a person, at the same time you are giving a gift to the planet. There is nothing better than a feel-good gift, which a gift tree is.

A Birthday Tree Gift is a Living Metaphor for Life

Trees are rich in symbolism. Across cultures, they represent life, growth, strength, resilience, and renewal — all powerful messages for a birthday celebration. In Irish culture, for instance, trees are deeply revered and hold immense spiritual and practical significance, representing life, wisdom, and a connection to the supernatural. They are viewed as bridges between the mortal world, the heavens, and the underworld, with their roots, trunks, and branches symbolizing different realms. Trees were not just sources of resources like food and shelter, but also held spiritual power, with specific trees associated with different deities, ancestors, and magical properties. No matter the recipient’s heritage, gifting a tree can symbolize:

  • A new chapter in life.
  • The personal growth and maturity the person has achieved.
  • Hope for continued strength and vitality in the coming year and years ahead.
  • Someone who is well grounded and whose roots have spread wide.
  • A potent symbol for life itself

It’s a living gift that grows along with the person. A tree is more than wood and leaves — it’s a living symbol of life’s journey. And it is a gift for any stage of life, whether you are honoring the birth of a child or celebrating an octogenarian.

Unique and Non-Materialistic

Instead of another gift card, toy, or gadget, a tree stands out:

  • It shows you’ve put thought and care into the gift.
  • It breaks from materialism and focuses on meaning.
  • It often sparks conversation and appreciation. A birthday tree gift is the perfect way to honor anyone who appreciates nature, enjoys meaningful and lasting gestures, or values eco-friendly initiatives. It could be a thoughtful gift for a close family member, a friend who loves the outdoors, or even a colleague who is passionate about sustainability.

No matter the person, a birthday tree symbolizes growth, life, and enduring connections, making it a thoughtful choice for people of all ages and backgrounds. This unique gift is not only personal but also contributes positively to the environment, allowing loved ones to cherish their special occasion while making a difference.

friends birthday celebrating

The Gifted Tree makes it as easy as 1,2,3 to order a birthday tree gift and check it off your list while providing a Wow reaction from the recipient.

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Plant a Memorial Tree for a Loved One Beyond United States’ National Forests

 

Mountain scene in a U.S. National Forest Colorado

The Gifted Tree has planted over 250,000 trees since 2013. These trees have been planted in memory of a loved one as well as to celebrate a happy milestone occasion such as a birthday or wedding. With over 80 planting project locations worldwide, many planting locations are in United States National Forests. Many of the planting projects in these national forests are to help reforest areas after fires have devastated a large swath of land.

One question I have received a lot is: “I want to plant my memorial tree in a National Forest, but not all of your projects are in National Forests.” To better understand the answer to this question, it is helpful to understand the history of the National Forest system. The United States national forest system began with the Forest Reserve Act of 1891. This act authorized the President, at that time, Benjamin Harrison, to set aside forested public lands for preservation and management. The first forest reserve, the Yellowstone Timberland Reserve, was established in 1891, and the United States Forest Service was created in 1905. As is explained on its website, the Forest Service, an agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is the nation’s foremost federal forestry organization. The agency is a world leader in forest research, providing leadership in the sustainable management, conservation, use, and stewardship of natural and cultural resources on national forests and grasslands in the United States.

If you happen to look at a map of the locations of the National Forests in this country, and there are 154 national forests and 20 national grasslands, the majority are concentrated in our great West. Why is that? The Eastern United States has relatively few national forests compared to the West primarily because most eastern forestland was already privately owned by the time national forests were established. In the western states, many western national forests were created from land already owned by the U.S. government, making it easier and less expensive to establish them. In the East, unlike in the West, the federal government had to purchase land to create national forests.

Plant a memorial tree in a U.S. National Forest.

The Weeks Law of 1911, also know as the Forest Purchase Act and named after John Weeks , a Massachusetts Congressman, authorized the federal government to acquire land for national forests, specifically to protect watersheds of navigable streams. It paved the way for the establishment of national forests in the East by allowing the government to purchase land from private landowners. It has been one of the most successful pieces of conservation legislation in U.S. history. To date, nearly 20 million acres of forestland have been protected by the Weeks Act, land that provides habitat for hundreds of plants and animals, recreation space for millions of visitors, and economic opportunities for countless local communities. As one historian has noted, “No single law has been more important in the return of the forests to the eastern United States” than the Weeks Act.  The Weeks Act significantly expanded the national forest system, particularly east of the Mississippi River, where many new forests were established.  But there were far fewer opportunities for these acquisitions in the East. Eastern states generally had less public domain land compared to western states, which further limited the opportunity for creating national forests on land already owned by the government.

With the Weeks Act in place, and the subsequent founding of the United States Forest Service,  a framework was established for federal, state, and private cooperation in forest and forest fire management. Over time, much was learned about forest fire management including if the fires are not too severe, areas can regenerate on its own. In fact, in fire-adapted ecosystems, fire has historically played an integral role in shaping and maintaining the landscape. As a result, many native plants and animal species have developed unique strategies to withstand blazes. One Tree Planted in a recent blog, describes some of the ways that trees and nature have adapted  to fires in order to regenerate. Fire is a natural and necessary part of the life cycle of these forests and over thousands of years, many species of trees and ground vegetation have developed adaptations to fire where it occurs naturally. If a fire is too severe for natural regeneration, and of course in reforestation situations that don’t involve forest fires, tree planting management focuses on healthy establishment and long-term success.

Need to reforest after fires devastate a U.S. National Forest.

One important factor to keep in mind is that tree planting projects in the East have the same goals as those in the west that take place in National Forests. Even though your memorial or celebration tree might not be planted in a National Forest, it is planted in a State Forest or other public (and occasionally private) land, all with these same goals:

·        Speed recovery in areas where natural regeneration is not enough to restore past tree loss.

·        Planting species of trees indigenous to the area which can provide qualities such as fire resistance and and the ability to withstand the effects of climate change.

·        Planting in areas that help stabilize the soil and help prevent future landslides.

·        Help restore habitat for animals and insects that depend on these trees.

·        Help mitigate the effects of climate change by providing carbon sequestration.

·        Help restore the natural balance of forest ecosystems, including biodiversity.

·        Help prevent runoff which helps reduce water pollution and improve water quality.

Keep in mind while planting a tree in memory of a loved one, planting in a National Forest isn’t always possible. But, our planting projects still provide the same great results and benefits no matter where planted, in United States National Forests and beyond. If you need help planting a memorial or celebration tree, contact us through this link or call, 800-984-2101 and talk to a real person.

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Plant a Tree In U.S. National Forest – CO

Plant a Tree in A U.S. National Forest Colorado

As discussed in our last couple blogs detailing planting a memorial or celebration tree in Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Arizona and Chippewa National Forest, Minnesota, planting a tree in a national forest in the United States or elsewhere around the world has become quite popular. Besides being a gift to a grieving family member or friend, or to celebrate a milestone event, these tree plantings are also a gift to the earth. The benefits range from helping reforest an area decimated by forest fire to aiding in improving the water quality of nearby rivers and lakes.  The Gifted Tree has planting projects in many United States National Forests, and this blog will focus on the project comprising many acres in and around Pike San Isabel National Forest, Colorado.

Pike San Isabel National Forest is a large forest in north central Colorado comprising well over a million acres including many of the state’s tallest mountains. When one thinks of Colorado, one thinks of lots of snow, but the environment in this area is actually quite dry, which makes it a prime location for forest fires. There have been several fires in this area over the past few years burning through Lodgepole pines and Spruce Fir forests. The intensity of these forest fires has made it difficult for these areas to naturally regenerate trees and other flora. By reforesting this area, our project that you help make possible, seeks to restore biodiversity, enhance ecosystem resilience, and mitigate the impact of future forest fires, ensuring the long-term health and sustainability of the landscape for both wildlife and communities alike.

A strand of beautiful Longleaf Pine Trees planted in a U.S. National Forest

Longleaf Pine Strand

While most of our planting projects around the world include several different tree species to be planted, this Colorado National Forest planting project only planted Lodgepole Pine trees. A number of tree experts determined collaboratively, in assessing the fire’s damage, that planting only Lodgepole pine trees was the best way to move forward to facilitate the ecosystem recovery of the area. The presence of other plant species in the understory (the vegetative layer and especially the trees and shrubs between the forest canopy and the ground cover) and adjacent habitats contributes to overall ecosystem diversity. Thus, focusing on only the Lodgepole pine for reforestation ensures the restoration of a vital component of Colorado’s forest ecosystems without excluding the presence of other species.

The Lodgepole Pine is a tree that is native to North America primarily in the Rocky Mountain region. This tree stands out with its paired needles, ranging from 1 to 3 inches in length, often twisted, giving it its distinctive appearance. In terms of bark, young lodgepole pines feature smooth, thin, grayish brown bark, while mature trees develop thick, deeply furrowed, and scaly bark with a reddish-brown hue. They are known for their towering heights, reaching between 50 to 100 feet tall, with a straight, slender trunk and a conical crown.

Distinctive needles and pine cone of a Longleaf Pine tree in a U.S. National Forest

Pine cone of a Lodgepole Pine,

Ecologically, Lodgepole pine trees serve a vital role in their native habitats. It offers various ecosystem services, such as:

Biodiversity Enhancement: By reintroducing Lodgepole pine saplings into areas affected by the fire, the reforestation project supports the recovery of vital habitat for a diverse array of fauna and flora species. Lodgepole pine forests are known to harbor numerous species, including birds, mammals, and insects, which rely on these habitats for shelter, nesting sites, and food resources. The re-establishment of these forests thus facilitates the return of biodiversity to the landscape, promoting ecosystem stability and resilience.

Carbon Sequestration: Lodgepole pine forests play a significant role in mitigating climate change through the process of carbon sequestration. Unfortunately, one of the costs of forest fires is that all the carbon stored in the old-growth trees is released and permanently lost when the trees burn. As the newly planted trees grow, they will absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in their biomass and in the soil. By replanting Lodgepole pine seedlings, the reforestation project again allows the capacity of the landscape to sequester carbon, helping to mitigate the effects of greenhouse gas emissions and combatting climate change.

Soil Stabilization and Erosion Control: The establishment of Lodgepole pine forests contributes to soil stabilization and erosion control, particularly in mountainous regions prone to slope instability and erosion. The deep root systems of Lodgepole pine trees help anchor the soil, reducing the risk of landslides and sediment runoff into waterways. Through the reforestation project, the restoration of Lodgepole pine forests enhances soil stability, safeguarding valuable ecosystems and downstream water quality

Fire Resilience and Adaptation: Lodgepole pine forests are well-adapted to fire prone ecosystems, and their presence contributes to the natural fire regime of the landscape. By replanting Lodgepole pine saplings, the reforestation project restores the fire-adapted ecology of the area, enhancing its resilience to future wildfires.

Bark of a Longleaf Pine tree in a U.S. National Forest

Monitoring the planting project is accomplished via drone and satellite imaging as well as site visits, all with the goal of long-term growth achieving a multitude of ecological benefits that are even greater than just the reforesting of the area burned by the fire. By enhancing biodiversity, sequestering carbon, stabilizing soils, promoting fire resilience, and supporting water resource management, the project contributes to the long-term sustainability and resilience of the landscape, safeguarding its ecological integrity for future generations. As one of the project managers stated: “This project’s impact will be critical in ensuring the future mitigation of severe wildfires, thereby safeguarding an array of ecological and social benefits for the community. It is an honor to participate in such vital restoration work, and we look forward to assessing the trees’ progress in the upcoming years.” Thanks to your foresight, these projects in United States National Forests are getting funded. And The Gifted Tree makes it easy to plant  trees to celebrate an important milestone or to plant a memorial tree in memory of a loved one, in Colorado, or in 80+ locations around the world.

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Why Plant Gift Tree With The Gifted Tree 2

Beautiful Forest Scene with flowers and sun

More FAQs Answered: Why Plant a Memorial Tree with The Gifted Tree?

In my last blog I answered several frequently asked questions: How do I plant a tree as a gift?, How much does it cost to plant a celebration or memorial tree?, and Where can the tree be planted? As we have planted over 150,000 gift trees since 2013 in United States National Forests, and in 40+ countries around the world, it makes sense that more excellent and valid FAQs come up. I will answer some more of the common ones in this blog, all focused on addressing the main question of, Why plant a memorial tree with The Gifted Tree?

How do I know the Gift Tree has been Planted?

This very important question is frequently asked since we do not send pictures of each individual gift tree. The best answer is that we work with very professional and trusted planting partners around the world, ones that we have carefully vetted and have partnered with for years. We know that when we send them instructions to plant your tree, they will make sure it is done. These non-profit NGOs are some of the oldest and largest tree conservation groups in the United States and around the world who have planted millions of trees where they are needed. Our partners are focused on reforestation, giving back to the environment, creating a healthier climate, and protecting biodiversity. They pick the right species of trees to plant in the project as well as the optimal time of the year to plant them.  The trees get a head start in a nursey that is indigenous to the planting project area, before they are planted in the wild. They plant these one to two feet saplings, and then manage their care helping to ensure a healthy tree that will be around for generations.

Mountain Forest stream

Is there a Plaque on the Tree?

It would be nice if your gift tree could have a plaque with the honoree’s name attached or on a post next to it. I am sure you have visited local parks where you come across this similar sort of acknowledgement. Unfortunately, this is not practical or allowed in our tree planting projects. Your gift tree plantings are part of a large-scale reforestation project. Arborists and volunteers will walk out to the planting area, many in quite remote areas of the forest, carrying perhaps a hundred trees in a large pouch and begin planting. It would not be feasible or practical for them to also place a plaque by each tree planting. Nor is it allowed. Imagine these plaques as the tree grows in circumference. The plaque would fall off and litter the forest floor. Not the outcome that is desired. The desired outcome that is accomplished by these planting – rejuvenating forests and providing environmental and socio-economic benefits makes these projects worthwhile. And thanks to your foresight and generosity, this goal is achieved even though individual recognition at the point of planting is not.

Can I visit the tree?

While we know the general area of the tree planting, as alluded to above, we do not know the specific tree and therefore, it is not possible to visit the tree. Keep in mind that many of our projects are in remote areas and difficult, and in some cases dangerous to get to. It is not as easy as saying drive 20 miles on this road until you reach mile post so and so, park your car on the brim of the road and walk in 25 feet. It probably closer to drive your 4-wheel drive vehicle 35 miles up this fire road, hoping you don’t get stuck, and walk a mile or two through difficult terrain to reach the planting area.

That being said, The Gifted Tree does provide you with the next best alternative, a virtual visit. Each of our projects has a description available to you and the recipient, outlining the goal(s) of the project along with the species of trees to be planted. On top of that, most description provide a link to Bing earth maps so that you are able to see the general area of the tree planting on your computer to get a feel for where in the state and country the tree gift is located.

One last thing that I mentioned to tree gifters is that it is possible to visit the forest where the tree is planted. For example you can go to Pike San Isabel National Forest, Colorado, just outside of Denver. You can hike the trails in the forest, and while you won’t know exactly where your tree is planted, you will be able to smile knowing that you have contributed to this beautiful area and made a difference in the life of the recipient. Or the honoree’s family can visit that forest and close their eyes while hiking and absorb the energy and spirit of their beloved family member.

Please feel free to check out our new, visually appealing video that highlights FAQ answers in film form. Additionally, the FAQ page on our website has answers to many more questions, if you can’t wait. And one of the benefits of doing business with The Gifted Tree is that we are the company with a personal touch and many positive testimonials; you can talk to a real person to get answers if that suits you. Call our toll-free number, 800-984-2101, during business hours 9:00 – 4:00 eastern (Monday – Friday). But not on Saturday or Sunday – a lot of times on the weekends we are out planting trees in our part of the country!

Mountain Forest Panorama

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Why Plant a Gift Tree with The Gifted Tree

Beautiful mountain forest vista at sunset.

6 Key Questions Answered: Why Plant a Memorial Tree with The Gifted Tree?

The Gifted Tree has been planting memorial and celebration gift trees since 2013 and sending beautiful hand-crafted tribute cards to family and friends announcing the gift. Whether to honor a lost family member, friend, or pet, or to celebrate a life milestone event, we have planted over 150,000 trees in United States National Forests and in over 40 countries around the world. Understandably, people have questions about what we do: How does this work? How much does it cost? and Where can I plant a celebration or memorial tree? The answer to those questions and many others can be found in the FAQ section on our website. The Gifted Tree has also gotten with the times and produced a video that also provides insights and answers to those questions along with a few others.

How does it work to plant a tree as a gift?

The Gifted Tree makes it easy to plant a tree in memory of a loved one (including pets) or to honor someone who is celebrating an important event. It can be done in 3 easy steps: 1. On the order form, you will choose the tribute design, number of trees planted, and a planting location from over 80 locations in U.S. National Forests and around the world. 2. Personalize the tree planting certificate and let us know who to mail it to. Don’t stress if you don’t know what to write. We have lots of heartfelt suggestions on what to write (including those specifically for pet memorial trees). 3. We will hand create the tribute card (no automatic computer-generated certificates) and mail it to wherever you tell us. Our non-profit tree planting partners will plant your tree and look after it to ensure it is well on its way to providing a lifetime of shade and ecological benefits. If desired, we provide info on the planting project and a way to virtually view the general area of the tree planting.

Please understand that physical trees are not sent: your gift tree planting is announced by a beautiful, unique tribute card (which contains the tree planting certificate) that is mailed to the recipient. You can also choose to have the tribute card sent to you if you would like to hand deliver it yourself.

Reflecting mountain lake in autumn

How much does it cost to plant a memorial or celebration tree?

The cost of the gift will depend on the tribute option you select. There are six different tribute design options available to choose from ranging from a handmade seed paper card to a pop-up card to several framed options. There is also an animated email option which is very beneficial if you want to get it there quickly, or for international orders, or if you don’t know the mailing address of the recipient. The costs range from $19.95 for the eCard up to $69.95 for the Lucite framed option and include the planting of one tree. Multiple trees are available for a small additional charge per tree, and that additional charge per tree can be found on the order form. In any case the total number of trees you plant is noted on the tree planting certificate.

Where can I plant a memorial or celebration gift tree?

3D World Tree Map

One of the advantages of working with The Gifted Tree is that we have tree planting locations in the United States and in 40+ countries around the world to choose from. With the earth losing approximately 10 -15 billion trees per year, coupled with losing the benefits those trees provide, trees are needed everywhere. Therefore, don’t stress on where to plant your memorial or celebration tree as all our planting projects provide tremendous benefits to the earth. Our suggestion is to plant where the individual you are honoring lives or lived, vacationed, or had some sort of family connection. Wherever you decide, that location will be noted on the tree planting certificate, and project descriptions are available describing the goals of the project, the species of trees to be planted, along with the ability to take a virtual tour of most projects by viewing a Bing earth map.

There are several more questions addressed in our new, visually appealing video, and I will highlight those answers in my next blog. As previously mentioned, our FAQ page has answers to many more questions, if you can’t wait. And one of the benefits of doing business with The Gifted Tree is that we are the company with a personal touch, and you can talk to a real person to get answers if that suits you. Call our toll-free number, 800-984-2101, during business hours 9:00 – 4:00 eastern (Monday – Friday, not Saturday or Sunday). A lot of times on the weekends we are out planting trees in our part of the country!

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Planting Trees and Sustainabilty

Plant a Tree to help global reforestation efforts

I dare to say that all of us have heard the word “sustainability,” making one think that its definition is quite simple. But to the contrary, the definition of the word “sustainability” is quite complex, not only due to the fact that not everyone can agree on its definition, but due to the fact that it encompasses a wide range of ideals.

In 1987, the United Nations defined sustainability as “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” The United States Environmental Protection Agency states that sustainability is based on a simple principle: Everything that we need for our survival and well-being depends, either directly or indirectly, on our natural environment. To pursue sustainability is to create and maintain the conditions under which humans and nature can exist in productive harmony to support present and future generations. The Cambridge dictionary defines sustainability as the quality of being able to continue over a long period of time. As you can see, while there is a common thread among the definitions, there certainly is a degree of variation.

3 Pillars of Sustainability

Overall, sustainability aims to create a harmonious balance between environmental health, economic viability, and social equity as it encompasses three main pillars:

Environmental Sustainability: Protecting and conserving natural resources and ecosystems, reducing pollution, and mitigating climate change to ensure a healthy planet for future generations.

Economic Sustainability: Promoting economic growth and development that provides jobs and prosperity without depleting resources or causing ecological damage. It involves creating a balanced approach that supports long-term economic health.

Social Sustainability: Ensuring social equity, access to resources, and opportunities for all individuals, fostering community well-being, and respecting cultural diversity. This includes addressing issues like poverty, inequality, and human rights.

While economic and social sustainability are great goals, I will let other experts tackle those areas. I will focus on environmental sustainability as that is what we attempt to help by planting trees at The Gifted Tree. Let us delve into why the planting of trees is a sustainable endeavor. Planting trees can help sustainability in many ways, including:

Plant Trees to Help Global Sustainability

Environmental Sustainability

Climate change
Trees remove carbon dioxide from the air, store carbon in the soil and trees, and release oxygen through photosynthesis. A single mature tree can absorb around 21 kilograms of carbon dioxide per year. Reforestation projects can sequester millions of tons of carbon annually.

Air quality
Trees act as natural filters, absorbing harmful pollutants like nitrogen oxides, ozone, and carbon monoxide, and trapping dust and smoke in their leaves and bark. They also absorb odors and other gases like ammonia, sulfur dioxide, and ozone.

Water quality
Trees trap and absorb excess nutrients and sediments before they reach waterways, helping to reduce contamination of freshwater resources.

Biodiversity
Trees provide food, cover, and places to raise young for wildlife, such as birds, insects, squirrels, and bees. A single tree can be home to hundreds of species of insect, fungi, moss, mammals, and plants, whereas forests create a wonderfully balanced system where soil, plants, and animals all depend on each other to thrive as a diverse ecosystem.

3D World Tree Map
Conclusion 

In summary, forests support human life all over the world as they regulate our climate, clean the air we breathe, and filter the water we drink. They also provide habitat for more than two-thirds of terrestrial wildlife and plants. They are one of our most important resources, offering a renewable supply of the materials and the goods we need for a more sustainable future. While plating memorial trees  and celebration trees with The Gifted Tree helps one connect on a personal level with loved ones and friends by expressing your feelings and showing you care, on a macro-level, our tree planting supports vital reforestation efforts around the world, helping to improve our planet’s health and giving a gift to the world.

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Pet Memorial Tree -Honor a Loved Companion

“It takes a special pet to make us care so deeply and miss them so greatly.”

Small dog and cat cuddling at home

We Love Pets

It seems to be undeniable that Americans have a love affair with pets. Over 100 million households in this country have at least one pet. Dogs are the most common household pets, with over 60 million, with cats coming in second place. But let’s not forget about fish, birds, small animals (gerbils and rabbits for example), reptiles, and horses. Just take a walk around the neighborhood on a nice summer night and this fact will be confirmed, at least in respect to dogs. America’s deep affection for pets is a testament to the unique bond humans share with animals. This bond was developed thousands of years prior as confirmed on ancient hieroglyphic rock etchings in ancient times. Dogs were valued for their loyalty and skills in hunting and protection, while cats were cherished for their ability to control disease carrying vermin.

One of the most significant shifts in the perception of pets, at least in recent times, is their transition from being mere animals to becoming family members. From the wagging tails of dogs to the soothing purrs of cats, pets have become integral members of many households across the country. A survey conducted by Harris Poll found that 95% of pet owners consider their pets part of the family. This sentiment is reflected in the way people celebrate their pets’ birthdays, include them in holiday festivities, and even create social media profiles for them. Visit a restaurant patio and most likely you have shared it with a dog or two. Drive down any road and it is common to see a dog’s head sticking out of the passing car’s window. Take a plane trip and there is a good chance that you have boarded along side an accompanied pet, whether you wanted to or not. And a big amenity for any community, whether to maintain residents, or to attract new residents, is the local dog parks. The proliferation of these parks around the country in the last decade is staggering. The city of Boise, Idaho leads the way with over seven dog parks per one hundred thousand residents.

Health Benefits of Owning a Pet

Several factors have contributed to the rise in pet ownership. Numerous studies have highlighted the health benefits of owning a pet. Pets are known to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. The simple act of petting a dog or cat can release endorphins and lower blood pressure. Additionally, pets encourage physical activity; dog owners, for instance, are more likely to engage in regular exercise through daily walks. During the COVID-19 pandemic, pets played a crucial role in providing emotional support. As people faced isolation and uncertainty, pets offered unwavering companionship and comfort. Animal shelters across the country reported a surge in adoptions, as individuals and families sought the solace that pets provide.

Pet Loss Tree - Dog Over The Rainbow Bridge

Losing a Pet

The downside with the infatuation of owning pets is that they don’t typically live as long as humans. The average life span for a dog is 10-13 years depending on the size and breed. Ask any dog lover and they will tell you that they will go through mourning several times in their lifetime due to this short canine lifespan. Losing a pet is a profound and heart-wrenching experience. For many, pets are not just animals but cherished members of the family, providing unconditional love, companionship, and joy. The death of a beloved pet can evoke intense emotions, and navigating the grief that follows can be challenging. I have addressed this challenge in a prior blog, 3 Tips for Grieving the Loss of a Pet.

Man and dog sitting in a forest of Cherry trees

Pet Memorial Tree

I have noticed in the last year since that blog was published how many more people are planting a pet memorial tree in order to create an everlasting tribute for their pet or for their friends or colleagues who have lost a pet. Planting a pet memorial tree to honor a faithful dog companion is the most common given the close connection between dogs and trees. What dog would not want to be memorialized with their own tree?!

The Gifted Tree makes it easy to plant a pet memorial tree. We have a number of beautiful hand-crafted tribute options which will resonate with the recipient and show you care. Some of the tributes are pet specific such as the Paw Prints premium sympathy card and a selection of pet loss animated digital eCards. As an added bonus, The Gifted Tree has a list of pet condolence messages to include on your tribute if you are struggling to find the right words to write on the tree planting certificate. Whether you’re looking for a more meaningful way to remember your own beloved pet after they’ve crossed the rainbow bridge or you’d like to send a tribute to a friend or family member who has lost a faithful companion, a memorial tree planting for the loss of a pet will create a perfect remembrance gift and a lasting legacy. Planting a tree in honor of a dog, cat, bird, or other animal is an enduring pet memorial gift.

Dog noses emerging from a heart-shaped blanket

 

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FAQs Answered – Can I Pick The Type Of Tree To Be Planted?

The Gifted Tree has been planting memorial and celebration trees since 2013. When you have been doing the same thing for a long time, you get a lot of the same questions. In a series of blogs, I will provide some answers to these frequently asked questions as well as provide in-depth reasons for the answer, more in-depth than what is provided on the FAQ section of our website. Today, the FAQ to be discussed is, “Can I pick the type of tree to be planted?”

Short Answer to the FAQ: Can I pick the species of tree to be planted? 

Unfortunately, not. While the types of trees planted at a particular project are often listed in planting project description sheets, you are not able to designate the type of tree to plant. We leave it up to the professionals on site to determine the best trees to plant to achieve the project’s goals. Silviculturists (scientists who study how to grow trees) decide on the type of tree that will grow best in an area, and the best time of year to plant. The objectives of the silvicultural prescriptions for planting sites include the reintroduction of tree species that were originally in that particular ecosystem in order to improve the resilience and resistance of the forest to fire, insects, diseases, and the potential effects of climate change. So, while you will know the different tree species included in your planting project, you won’t know specifically which one is your tree species.

More In-depth Answer to the FAQ: Can I pick the species of tree to be planted? 

You might have noticed in the answer above, it states that most planting projects have multiple species of trees, not just one. When I first started doing this type of work, and actually went into the field and to plant the trees, we would only plant one species of trees. I would arrive at a site and several hundred of the same species of trees would be waiting for us to plant. We would spend the day digging and planting these trees, not worrying where exactly they would go as long as we left at least a shovel length in between each tree. In other words, we did not want the saplings to be too close to one another. That they knew was not good for long-term survivability.

A few years ago, there was a shift in understanding tree planting strategies and what is best to ensure a “happy” tree. I would get to the site and while there would still be several hundred trees waiting to be planted, they were separated into groups of 5- 6 different species. We were given instructions to make sure all the different species were planted in the different grids that were “drawn” out on the landscape in front of us. I was curious as to what was the catalyst to this new philosophy in tree planting, so I asked the arborists who were helping with the project logistics.

They explained that while it was once thought that it did not matter if there was one species or multiple species planted in a project, scientific research concluded that trees were “happier” when grouped with a multitude of species. Not only is it important to plant more trees and increase the tree canopy in this country, but it is also essential to be more thoughtful as to what is planted. I live in the community of Shaker Heights, a suburb outside of Cleveland, Ohio. We have beautiful tree lined streets, but in its founding, about 100 years ago, the streets were lined mainly with elm trees. Unfortunately, Dutch elm disease was brought to this country and caused the tragic demise of the specie’s population. The practice of planting the same type of tree exclusively in one area was beautiful when it worked but as these trees succumbed to elm disease, many of them had to be cut down.  As a result of situations like that just described, mixed planting of various species of trees is now considered the correct practice in these settings. Thus, when travelling down the streets of Shaker Heights, one will still find them to be tree lined, but instead of just elms, there are a variety of species.

A similar practice is taking place in the forest, and for good reason. The most compelling argument for planting a mix of various kinds of trees in a given area is that this is how forests grow naturally. The model that Mother Nature uses is mingling diverse species that have a variety of genetic strengths. If one species gets attacked by pests or disease, there are other species that are resistant to the problem, and they maintain the forest until the threatened one either recovers or is succeeded by another type of tree. This diverse tree population, especially if the trees are native to the region, also hosts diverse populations of beneficial creatures that protect the tree community, which in turn, sustains them. Furthermore, diverse types of trees in polyculture (the planting of multiple species) tree plantings each have their own unique susceptibilities and resistances which offset others’ vulnerabilities. Because they harbor a healthy community of organisms and animals that are in balance, pest and disease problems typically are not able to take hold as easily and do not spread as extensively.

Conclusion

As we better understand the science of the forest, we adapt our methods to take advantage of our knowledge. It took many years to determine that planting the same species presented problems, but it wasn’t necessarily the species that was the problem, but the method. Now as we seek to enhance the tree canopy around the country, in both urban and rural situations, we understand that planting a diverse group of tree species can yield better results with forests that are better able to adapt and survive invasion of diseases and hopefully adapt better to climate change issues as well. So, while you can’t pick the precise species for your memorial or celebration tree, realize that your tree is a gift to the earth and making a lasting impact by understanding that the experts are planting multiple tree species to ensure long-term growth, lasting for generations.

Doug and Laura from The Gifted Tree planting trees in Cuyahoga Valley National Park Ohio

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