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How To Write a Compassionate Tribute Note

Blog Summary – Key Points Covered

How To Write a Compassionate Tribute Note

1. This blog will focus on writing a sympathy note, as opposed to a celebratory note, which is not an easy task.
2. While it sounds simple, just getting started and putting your thoughts in writing are key to moving forward.
3. This guide provides 10 concrete sympathy message writing tips such as keep your note simple and add a personal memory if possible.
4. The Gifted Tree makes it easy to plant a tree and offers many heartfelt suggestions on what to write for those struggling to find just the right words.

How To Write a Great Tribute Note That is a Winner.

I get questions all the time, via email or a phone call, about how to write a sympathy note or tribute message that will resonate with the recipient, whether it is a condolence message or a celebratory missive. As a matter of fact, two previous blogs on related subjects — how to write a sympathy letter and what to write in a sympathy card during difficult times — have been some of our most popular. There is a good reason why I get asked a lot about what to say in a note, it is because it is not an easy task. Having been in this business for 13 years, I have some additional insights that I would like to share with you. Please note, this blog will focus on writing sympathy notes but the same principles can be applied to celebratory notes as well.

First let’s look back at some of our past blog’s salient points:

The hardest part to writing a great note is just reaching out at all, especially to someone who has just lost a family member or someone who is close to him or her. This is especially true when people are unsure what to write in a sympathy card or worry about saying the wrong thing. While it is tempting to ignore the situation, sending a sympathy card or reaching out with a sympathy letter is probably the best thing you can do for that person. It can go a long way in helping a grieving individual or family get through a difficult time. Number one, therefore, is just get started and send a note.

The next point, put it in writing. It is much easier to write a note as opposed to thinking you will just say something in person the next time you see that individual. Writing a condolence message allows you to choose your words carefully and express sympathy in a way that feels authentic and thoughtful. You don’t have to worry about stumbling over your words and it can make it easier when you do see that person as they will know that you have already reached out and it will make that experience less awkward.

Sympathy Message Writing Tips and Examples

Here are some suggestions (as appeared in a New York Times article written by Katherine Rosman) for expressing sympathy clearly and supportively, whether you are writing a sympathy note, condolence message, or memorial message. As Ms. Rosman states in her article:

Keep in mind that it is important to consider the tone of your message and it is okay to convey an air of solemnity, even as you express personal warmth. You want to keep in mind the seriousness of the situation.
Be direct and do not meander. Start with the reason you are writing, which is one of the most important parts of a meaningful sympathy message. An example: I was so sorry to hear about the loss of your brother.
Be gentle and instead of using the word “death” you might want to substitute the word “loss” or “passing.”
Acknowledge unfamiliarity. Some of the most comforting condolence notes are sent not because we knew and loved the deceased, but because we care about the survivor(s). In this case, reflect on your affection for the person you are writing to as it relates to the death of their loved one.
Offer a wish for the future and conclude with a caring sign-off that is appropriate to your relationship with the recipient and that feels suitable for a remembrance or condolence note.

I want to add my tips, from 13 years of experience, for writing a great note that will resonate with the recipient:

Don’t stew over the exact words. In the long run, it really isn’t that important as the recipient will not spend great amounts of time analyzing each word that you write. They will just be so happy that you reached out.
As soon as you think of something, write it down or save it on a computer. Don’t say to yourself that you will remember it later. You probably won’t and you will kick yourself as you struggle to come up with something close to what you thought of earlier. I can’t tell you how many customers I have talked to who have found themselves in this same situation. So frustrated they are and there is nothing I can do to help them.
Add a personal memory you have of the person, if possible. If appropriate, explain how you knew the person, how well you knew the person and the role that the person played in your life. You might want to include a short memory of the deceased. For example, if you remember spending summers together with the person when you were younger, then add that to your note. These types of memories really add a special touch to your note. The reader will cherish that memory.
Keep your note simple. Don’t stress about writing a long message. Short messages are just as powerful and, in most cases, better received. It is not quantity you are after here, but a short, sweet note is preferable. The recipient usually is juggling a lot of tasks, as well as a lot of emotions, and will have a short attention span.
Finally, it does not matter when you send the note. So many customers are focused on getting it out to the family on the day of the funeral. While in theory that sounds nice, the fact of the matter is that the family is dealing with so much that day they probably won’t have time to even open your letter. They might not get to it for a few days. I know from personal experience that after my father died recently, it took me and my sisters about two weeks to open everything we received. Bottom line is anytime during the first year is acceptable.

Get Started with the Gifted Tree

Send an everlasting, beautiful tribute with The Gifted Tree. Show that you care by planting a majestic tree in a U.S. National Forest or a planting project location in one of 40 countries. Besides announcing the tree planting, the tribute certificate includes a space for you to include a personal message employing all the tips you have just read about. And if you struggle to find the right words to write, there is a large section of heartfelt suggestions that will help you create a winning remembrance. A memorial tree is a most meaningful tribute to a life well-lived. As one customer stated: “The tree planting and card message comforted me in a way I never expected they would.”

Compassionate Tribute Note FAQs

What should you write in a sympathy note if you don’t know what to say?

If you’re unsure what to say, keep your sympathy note simple and sincere. A brief message expressing your sorrow for their loss and letting them know you’re thinking of them is more than enough. You don’t need the perfect words, your effort and compassion matter most.

How long should a sympathy or condolence message be?

A sympathy message does not need to be long. In most cases, a short and heartfelt note is best. Grieving individuals often appreciate clear, thoughtful messages that offer comfort without overwhelming them.

Is it okay to send a sympathy note weeks or months after a loss?

Yes. It is always appropriate to send a sympathy note, even weeks or months after a loss. Many families continue to grieve long after the funeral, and receiving a thoughtful message later can be especially meaningful.

January 7, 2026/by Doug Bell

Gift Ideas, How To, Tree Planting

Environmentally Friendly Corporate Gifts – Plant a Gift Tree

Blog Summary – Key Points Covered

Environmentally Friendly Corporate Gifts – Plant a Gift Tree

1. Tree planting gifts offer businesses a meaningful alternative to traditional corporate gifts by combining sustainability, appreciation, and long-term impact.
2. By planting a tree in honor of clients, employees, or partners, companies reduce waste, support environmental restoration, and reinforce values such as responsibility and purpose-driven action.
3. This guide explains why tree planting is an effective corporate gifting strategy, who it is best suited for, and how businesses can easily send a customized tree planting gift through The Gifted Tree.
4. The Gifted Tree makes it easy to plant a tree and help the environment.

It is the time of the year when we want to reach out and thank those who are important in our lives. Of course, family and friends are at the top of the list, and we have been making a list and checking it twice for a while. But we also want to reach out and thank the corporate folks who have been involved in helping us make the past year a success – the businesspeople, clients, teachers, and customers who have been a big part of our lives. And what better way to celebrate those people than to present them with an environmentally friendly gift by planting a tree in their honor.

As I cleaned up the house after the Thanksgiving holiday, I came across many items that I have received in the past – tote bags, mugs, and numerous tchotchkes– most emblazoned with a corporate logo. Many were in drawers, cabinets, or closets, and forgotten about. Not only are the gifts forgotten about, but they are not environmentally friendly, gifts that will end up in a landfill where they will languish for decades. Sustainable corporate gifting through tree planting gifts offers a meaningful alternative. Planting a tree in honor of your corporate friends is not only eco-friendly and sustainable, but a long-lasting corporate gift and a unique, memorable way to honor the people that are special in your lives.

How is a tree sustainable and environmentally friendly?

Because they naturally regenerate, enhance biodiversity, clean the air and water, store carbon, and support the planet’s ecosystems — all without creating pollution. Tree planting is a sustainable corporate gift that directly supports environmental restoration and climate resilience.

Trees absorb CO₂ and release oxygen – ultimately fighting climate change.
Trees provide homes, food, and shelter for birds, insects, mammals, fungi, and many other species thus helping increase biodiversity.
Tree roots hold soil in place, preventing erosion and thus improving soil structure, nutrient content, and water retention.
Trees filter pollutants from the air, and their roots also help filter chemicals from soil and water.

How does planting a gift tree help you stand out and highlight your company’s values?

Planting a tree as a gift shows that your company values corporate sustainability, long-term thinking, community well-being, and meaningful impact—and it demonstrates those values through real action.

Planting a gift tree shows your company’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
Planting a gift tree shows your company’s long-term vision and legacy-focused values.
Planting a gift tree demonstrates that your company cares about people and the planet.
Planting a gift tree aligns your company with purpose-driven corporate gifting and authentic brand values.

What type of people can you honor by planting a gift tree?

You can honor almost any type of corporate client by planting a gift tree. Here are a few examples:

Real estate – those who used your firm to buy, sell, or lease a home, industrial or office building.
Large corporate and other high-value relationships where thoughtful gestures matter.
Governmental and public sector clients as these public agencies often have environmental and community missions.
Corporate clients who have reached a milestone event such as retirement, anniversary with their firm, or have completed a big project.
Wealth management, financial planning, and accounting firms can honor clients with symbolic gifts that grow over time, reinforcing long-term investment philosophies.

How to plant a gift tree – three easy steps!

The Gifted Tree makes it simple for businesses to plant a gift tree for clients, employees, or those special to you:

1. Choose the tribute design from one of our six unique and beautiful designs.

2. Select a planting location from one of our 80+ locations in the United States and around the world.

3. Customize and personalize your message to include with your gift. We can even add your corporate logo if desired.

From there we will hand-craft your tribute and mail it to your client or to you if you would like to personally deliver it. We arrange to have one of our non-profit planting partners plant the tree and care for and monitor its growth and well-being.

No matter who you honor or celebrate by planting an environmentally friendly corporate gift, your company will stand out in a meaningful way – a recognition that will provide a “wow” experience in an unexpected and personal way and show you care. This eco-friendly gift tree is a win for you, your client and the planet. Contact us by filling out a form or you can call us, 800-984-2101, and talk to a real person who will discuss your specific needs and help you craft a plan.

FAQs

What is a corporate tree planting gift?

A corporate tree planting gift is a sustainable gifting option where a tree is planted in honor of a client, employee, or partner. The recipient receives a personalized tribute, while the tree is planted and cared for by nonprofit partners, creating a lasting environmental and symbolic impact.

Are tree planting gifts considered sustainable corporate gifts?

Yes. Tree planting gifts are considered one of the most sustainable corporate gifting options because they reduce waste, support biodiversity, absorb carbon, and contribute positively to local ecosystems. Unlike traditional promotional items, they create long-term environmental benefits.

How do businesses send a tree planting gift to clients or employees?

Businesses choose a tribute design, select a planting location, and personalize a message or logo. The Gifted Tree coordinates the planting through nonprofit partners and delivers a physical tribute to the recipient, making the process simple and meaningful.

December 10, 2025/by Doug Bell

How To, News

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

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:

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

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!

October 30, 2025/by Doug Bell

Gift Ideas, How To, Tree Planting

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

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.

September 16, 2025/by Doug Bell

Gift Ideas, How To

Why You Should Consider Giving a Gift Tree for a Birthday

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.

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.

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.

August 12, 2025/by Doug Bell

News

Memorial Tree vs Flowers: Which Lasts Longer

Several years ago, when speaking with one of our customers on the phone (The Gifted Tree has a toll-free telephone number where one can speak to a live person for help), she mentioned that she was so glad to find us because she no longer wanted to send flowers as a sympathy gift. Why I asked? She explained that her husband had passed recently, and she received a number of flower arrangements at the house. While they were nice, she continued, less than a week later she had to gather them all and toss them in the trash. That process brought back to the surface her sorrow of losing her loved one, a reminder of such a sad occasion.

The Problem with Flowers

Not only do flowers not last very long, cut flowers are also not a very sustainable option.

1. High water usage: contributes to water scarcity especially in arid environments

2. Pesticide use: Many cut flowers are treated with pesticides and other chemicals to protect them from pests and diseases, which can pollute water sources and harm ecosystems.

3. Carbon emissions: many cut flowers are grown outside of the United States requiring long transportation routes to get them to where they are sold. Airplane fuel and truck diesel leave a harmful carbon footprint.

4. Refrigeration – many cut flowers require refrigeration to help them last longer before they are sold, further impacting on the carbon footprint.

5. Unsustainable packaging – most fresh cut flowers are wrapped in plastic or held in place in a vase by foam, neither which are good for the environment

6. Thrown in landfill – even though flowers can be composted, most are thrown in a landfill, increasing methane gas production, because most people don’t realize they can be composted or don’t have access to composting. One light band and one dark band together represent one year of growth. By counting these rings, you can determine the tree’s age.

Trees Last Longer

Even the freshest cut flowers won’t last longer than 10 days. Trees, on the other hand, can last for many generations. While it is difficult to determine the exact age of a living tree, you can measure the circumference, calculate the diameter, and then use a growth factor specific to the tree species to estimate the age. If a tree is cut down, the most common method is to count the growth rings on a cross-section of the trunk. Trees produce new growth rings each year, typically appearing as alternating light and dark bands in the trunk’s cross-section.

Treehugger.com has a list of the ten oldest trees, a number of them have lived for thousands of years, including:

Prometheus, growing in Nevada, was the oldest known tree, thought to be around 5,000 years old. Unfortunately, it was cut down for research purposes in 1964.

Sarv-e Abarqu cypress tree

Sarv-e Abarqu, is a cypress tree in the Yazd province of Iran. The tree is estimated to be at least 4,000 years old. It is considered an Iranian national monument and is most likely the oldest living thing in Asia.

Llangernyw Yewi is an incredible yew residing in a small churchyard of St. Dygain’s Church in Llangernyw village, North Wales, United Kingdom. About 4,000 years old, the Llangernyw Yew was planted sometime in the prehistoric Bronze Age—and it’s still growing!

Olive Tree of Vouves

Olive Tree of Vouves is an ancient olive tree located on the Greek island of Crete and is one of seven olive trees in the Mediterranean believed to be over 3,000 years old. Incredibly, it still produces olives, and they are highly prized. Olive trees are hardy and drought-, disease- and fire-resistant—part of the reason for their longevity and their widespread use in the region.

Chestnut Tree of One Hundred Horses, located on Mount Etna in Sicily, Italy is the largest and oldest known chestnut tree in the world. Believed to be between 2,000 and 4,000 years old, this tree’s age is particularly impressive because Mount Etna is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. The tree has survived its eruptions even though it sits only five miles from Etna’s crater. The tree’s name originated from a legend in which a company of 100 knights was caught in a severe thunderstorm and all of them were able to take shelter under the massive tree.

Finally, the General Sherman Tree is one old tree you might be more familiar with. Believed to be around 2,500 years old, General Sherman is the mightiest giant sequoia still standing. The volume of its trunk alone makes it the largest non-clonal (not developing from a single cell) tree by volume in the world. The General Sherman tree is located in Sequoia National Park in California (a planting project area of The Gifted Tree), where five of the 10 largest trees in the world exist.

General Sherman Tree

Trees a Clear Winner Versus Flowers

This is not to say that the trees planted by The Gifted Tree will last that long, but it is safe to say they will be here for many generations, and that cannot be said for flowers. The Gifted Tree plants both memorial and celebration trees in one of our 80+ projects around the world. You pick the project, the tribute design and personalize your message. We send the card to the recipient (or to you) and have the tree planted by one of our non-profit planting partners who then provides care for your tree. If you have questions or need help, feel free to call and talk to a real person at 800-984-2101, or order online 24/7 at TheGiftedTree.com.

June 27, 2025/by Doug Bell

How To, News

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

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.

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.

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.

June 10, 2025/by Doug Bell

News

Planting Trees and Sustainability

As Earth Month winds down, and Earth Day and Arbor Day celebrations are complete, a lot has been written about the benefits of tree plantings and sustainability. We get a lot of frequently asked questions at The Gifted Tree, and one I will try to answer in this blog: How does planting trees achieve sustainability goals?

Before I delve into the answer, let me summarize how trees and the planting of trees help benefit the environment in general.

How Trees Benefit The Environment

Improve Air Quality and Carbon Sequestration

Trees reduce air pollution and help to purify the air by absorbing carbon and other pollutants. Trees act as natural carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through photosynthesis. Trees absorb a lot of air pollutants which are released into the air by automobiles and industrial facilities. The more mature the tree, the more pollutants absorbed. By filtering pollutants, trees improve air quality and reduce respiratory problems in humans and animals.

Benefit Wildlife

Trees provide essential habitats for a wide range of wildlife, and other understory trees and plants, supporting biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Provide Economic Benefits

Trees can increase property values, improve the tax base, and enhance neighborhood appeal by making streetscapes more pleasant. Surveys show that consumers prefer to shop and live where there are an abundance of trees, and thus, trees can also have a positive impact on the price and desirability of homes. Property values for unimproved lots usually rise based on the amount and density of tree cover.

Reduce Energy Use and Costs

Trees can reduce heating and cooling costs and counteract the “heat island” effect in urban environments by providing shade and windbreaks. Urban areas with little vegetation can experience temperatures of up to seven degrees higher than those with tree coverings. Thus, properly planted trees can cut heating and cooling costs and reduce overall power demand.

Help Improve Water Quality

Trees help anchor soil and reduce storm water runoff. Their roots help bind soil thereby preventing erosion and landslides. Reducing runoff also decreases topsoil erosion and the amount of silt and other pollutants washed into streams, rivers, and lakes. Trees can intercept rainwater, reduce runoff, and improve water infiltration into the soil, which helps recharge groundwater supplies.

Mental Health Benefits

Forests and other areas rich with tree coverage provide recreational opportunities. Being out in nature improves people’s mood and general well being.

Icons – United Nation’s Sustainability Development Goals

Sustainability Goals and How Planting Trees Help Reach Those Goals

In 2017, the United Nations established a a set of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to help businesses and governments build a more equitable and sustainable world. The 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a plan to create a better and more sustainable future for all. They represent key benchmarks to addressing poverty, inequality, and climate change. The planting of trees, and reforestation in general, help to get us closer to reaching each one of those 17 goals. This blog will touch on and explain the first five of the 17 goals. A future blog will explain the remaining 12 goals. For more detailed explanation of these goals, please visit the United Nations site.

1. No Poverty

Goal #1 recognizes that poverty is a multi-dimensional issue, with factors ranging from unemployment to social exclusion, vulnerability to natural disasters, susceptibility to disease, and more. Most of the world’s population that live in poverty depend almost entirely on productive land for their livelihoods. Reforestation can improve human lives by providing short and long-term employment, increasing the land’s ability to produce food and building materials over time, and protecting infrastructure from extreme weather events. Any efforts to reduce poverty need to include the planting of trees to build up healthy, well-managed forests, watersheds, and soils.

2. Zero Hunger

While the number of undernourished people worldwide has dropped significantly in the past several decades, still a significant number of the world’s population go to bed hungry every night, and remain a huge barrier to advancing developing countries. Working with experts, the planting of trees can provide nutritious food for everyone, generate sustainable income, support rural development, and protect the environment. Investments in agriculture are crucial to increasing productivity and supporting the sustainable food systems necessary to alleviate hunger. Restoring degraded forests by planting trees in agricultural areas can address hunger by improving economic well-being and protect the livelihoods of farmers in developing nations. Additionally, when sustainable agroforestry is incorporated into larger tree planting projects, they can help to protect new plantings and native forests from over-harvesting and extraction that can occur when people are dependent on forest resources for survival.

3. Good Health and Well-Being

Good health is essential to sustainable development and advancement of mankind. Much progress has been made in this area, but it is uneven and there is a wide gap among countries. Planting trees can improve health in humans by providing sustainable, high quality supplies of food and water over time, modulating temperatures, absorbing rainwater during storm events, providing a buffer against powerful storm systems, and reducing the incidence and transmission of diseases. One overlooked benefit provided by trees is its medicinal benefits in many cultures as well as improving mental health by spending time amongst the trees and just being in the forest.

4. Quality Education

Receiving a quality education is one of the most powerful and proven vehicles for sustainable development and advancement. Providing agroforestry education is one of the overlooked benefits in many of The Gifted Trees tree planting projects. In addition to planting trees in underserved areas of the world, there is an educational component, teaching communities techniques to create living fences and alley crops that will protect their lands and increase soil fertility and crop yields, reduce erosion, and improve water infiltration. In addition to providing jobs and restoring landscapes, many of our partners educate communities about sustainable agroforestry, land use practices, site monitoring, and micro-economics. We have seen that planting trees and maintaining them directly promotes education by increasing incomes and reducing the time spent securing basic necessities such as food and fuelwood. This gives parents more time and money to educate their children, and exposes them to opportunities they may not otherwise have had access to. Most of these individuals have no knowledge of proper land management techniques, but this training will be a significant factor in the fight against deforestation.

5. Gender Equity

This goal is related to the last goal. It is vital to understand that in many parts of the world, especially developing countries, the brunt of the family work falls on the women. Women take care of the children and cook all the meals. They don’t have access to stoves and ovens so they have to build fires to cook. These fires are fueled by collecting wood but with a shrinkage in sources, women can spend hours a day to travel by foot to collect this wood so that they are able to cook. Planting trees can increase gender equity and empower women by increasing their access to quality nutrition and other essentials of life. Planting trees to restore local landscapes can increase incomes by growing productive and sustainable agricultural crops.

We will explore more of the Sustainable Development Goals in future blogs, but in the meantime, you can be part of the solution by planting trees. The Gifted Tree works with non-profits around the world to plant memorial and celebration trees in order to achieve these goals. .

April 30, 2025/by Doug Bell

Tree Planting

How Do Trees Benefit Wildlife: A Great Partnership

We get a number of repeat questions at The Gifted Tree as many of our customers are curious about the benefits of trees. One of those frequently asked questions is: How do trees benefit wildlife?

Many of us are aware that trees provide numerous important benefits to humans as well as enhance the beauty and character of the local landscape. These benefits to people include:

Air Quality – Trees reduce air pollution and help to purify the air by absorbing carbon and other pollutants. A mature tree absorbs between 120-240 pounds per year of small particles and gases.

Economic Benefits – Trees can increase property values, improve the tax base, and enhance neighborhood appeal by making streetscapes more pleasant. Commercial areas with trees generally enjoy higher occupancy and rental/lease rates than properties without such landscaping. Trees can also have a positive impact on the price and desirability of homes. Property values for unimproved lots can rise as much as 30 percent based on the amount and density of tree cover.

Energy Benefits – Trees can reduce heating and cooling costs by cooling down the communities in which we live. Urban areas with little vegetation can experience temperatures of up to seven degrees higher than those with tree coverings.

These are just several of the benefits that trees provide to humans, and we will elaborate on them further in future blogs. But trees are just as beneficial to wildlife as they are to humans. Trees are vital for wildlife, providing essential resources like food, shelter, and breeding grounds, as well as contributing to healthy ecosystems by stabilizing soil and water. I will elaborate on each of these …

Trees’ Benefits to Wildlife

Food – Trees provide important food sources to animals:

–Fruits, nuts, seeds, and leaves: Many animals rely on trees for sustenance, with species like squirrels, birds, and bears utilizing fruits, nuts, and seeds as a primary food source.

-Sap and bark: Insects and other animals may feed on the sap and bark of trees.

-Insects and other invertebrates: Trees provide habitat for insects and other invertebrates, which in turn serve as food for larger animals.

Shelter and Habitat – Trees are also essential in providing protection to animals:

· Nesting and breeding sites:

Trees offer safe and secure locations for birds, squirrels, and other animals to build nests and raise their young.

· Protection from predators:

Trees provide cover and concealment, allowing animals to escape predators and find refuge.

· Temperature regulation:

Tree canopies provide shade, helping to regulate temperatures and create cooler microclimates for wildlife.

· Aquatic habitats:

Trees along riverbanks and streams help stabilize shorelines, preventing erosion and creating habitats for fish and other aquatic animals.

In Summary -Trees contribute to overall biodiversity by providing habitat for a wide variety of plant and animal species. A greater diversity of trees means a greater diversity of wildlife. They provide diverse habitats that support the interconnectedness of ecosystems and promote resilience. Trees create a variety of habitats, from the ground level to the canopy, supporting diverse plant and animal life. Trees play a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems by improving air and water quality, regulating climate, and preventing soil erosion. A diverse mix of tree species in an area can increase the resilience of ecosystems to environmental changes, such as pests, diseases, and climate fluctuations. As an example, Eastern white cedars provide cover for small birds, while white oaks produce acorns for birds and mammals to eat, demonstrating how different tree species contribute to the needs of various wildlife. And finally, increasing tree diversity in urban areas supports wildlife, which is crucial in urban ecosystems where food and habitat are often scarce.

A forest is more than a collection of trees. It is a complex ecosystem of diverse plants and animals. And this interconnected relationship of all forest species ensures the whole forest thrives—from soil to canopy. The Gifted Tree helps individuals and businesses make a lasting impact and help our forests thrive by planting trees in memory or celebration of special moments. The company has planted over 250,000 trees as it works with non-profit planting partners around the world who know what species to plant, when best to plant, and even monitor its care after planting. Not only are trees and wildlife a great partnership, but working with The Gifted Tree is a great partnership as well as our numerous positive testimonials prove. With planting locations in over 40 countries and unique tribute cards to commemorate your gift, The Gifted Tree makes it easy to honor loved ones and connect with the earth in meaningful ways, and provide a gift to your friends, the forest animals, to boot.

March 31, 2025/by Doug Bell

News

Plant a Tree in U.S. National Forest – MN

As discussed in our last blog detailing planting a memorial or celebration tree in Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Arizona, 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 the water quality of nearby rivers and lakes. The Gifted Tree has planting projects in many U.S. national forests, and this blog will focus on the project in Chippewa National Forest, a forest comprising almost 700,000 acres in north central Minnesota.

Plant a Tree in Chippewa National Forest – Objectives

Chippewa National Forest was established in 1902. It was named in honor of the Chippewa tribe of Native Americans from whose land the forest was created. Approximately 44% of the Forest’s land is within the Leech Lake Indian Reservation. Water is abundant in Chippewa National Forest, with over 1,300 lakes, 923 miles of rivers and streams and 400,000 acres of wetlands. The Forest has more lakes and wetlands than any other National Forest in the nation, boasting approximately 13% of all surface water within the entire National Forest system.

As a consequence of logging activity, forests in this part of the state have become less complex over time and resulted in a not so favorable mix of tree species resulting in less biodiversity and carbon storage than could be achieved with a better mix. Our project in Chippewa sought to restore the mix of trees in the forest and increase the range of climate-adapted trees species to improve the landscape around the headwaters of important watersheds, including the forest alongside lake shores and trout streams, and degraded forest along the north shore of Lake Superior. With so many lakes in the national forest and also the fact that it borders Lake Superior, the largest of the Great Lakes, our planting project has helped improve watersheds. In doing so, the new trees help improve water quality as they grow and foster the removal of sediment into these waterways.

The objective of our tree planting project in Chippewa National Forest was to restore vital tree species and introduce new tree species that will help the forest maintain and improve its resilience to threats brought about by climate change. Our planting project is helping provide a wide range of ecological benefits including improved water quality in streams and lakes, reduction of sediment in these water sources, improved habitat to improve biodiversity, helping soil stabilization needed in the face of increased heavy rainstorms, and improved carbon storage by changing forest composition to add species that live longer and grow larger. Not only will the reforestation improve the diversity of tree species in Chippewa National Forest, but also improve wildlife habitat conditions, improve soil and water quality, along with carbon storage.

Eleven native species were planted across the forest project including white spruce, white pine, red pine, red oak, jack pine, black spruce, tamarack, white cedar, bur oak, swamp white oak, and yellow birch. As mentioned previously, planting sites and species selection were made within a strategy of climate change solutions and improving biodiversity and habitat through improving tree species diversity. Using technology such as drones and remote sensing devices, ideal planting locations were recognized and restored, helping vital wildlife habitat, improving resilience to global warming threats, and protecting and improving a range of services and benefits the forest provides. It is comforting to know that these forest locations chosen within Chippewa National Forest will produce the highest and longest-term ecological benefits.

Chippewa National Forest Benefits

Thanks to you, your gift of planting trees in Chippewa National Forest has tremendously benefited Minnesota’s tree diversity and strengthened its forest against future issues. The planting of your trees in this deforested area helps the environment by accelerating and assuring the re-establishment of healthy forests. Through this reforestation, the tree canopy is restored, ecosystems are reinvigorated, and biodiversity can thrive. This project is an excellent example of proving the many ways in which forests benefit wildlife, local communities, and their landscapes, and the project’s impact is critical to enhancing the resilience of this forest ecosystem and safeguarding the benefits they provide now and in the future.

Biodiversity Benefits

With the forest cover that dominates the Minnesota landscape, Chippewa National Forest occupies an area close to the geographic center of the North America continent where three major biomes converge: the prairie, the boreal forest, and the deciduous forests of the east. Our planting projects will help improve the pristine wilderness and abundant biodiversity. Among the noteworthy animal species benefiting are moose, elk, Canadian lynx, burrowing owl and the spotted salamander. The forest is also home to a large gray wolf population, which will also benefit from the new tree plantings. Their living conditions will be enhanced with our tree plantings which will aid the processes that sustain life.

Community Benefits

The communities that are in and surround Chippewa National Forest will benefit from the reforestation project through multiple avenues including enhanced recreation availability, improved water quality, and carbon storage. The reforested areas will be used for school field trips. A scenic highway along the shores of Lake Superior was also improved, as a result of the project, opening up a spectacular part of the lake to citizens of Minnesota and beyond. Furhermore, by shifting forest plantings to species that live longer and grow taller, the project not only helps safeguard recreational activities for the future, but augment carbon storage capacity that will benefit the surrounding communities long term.

Conclusion

None of these benefits would be possible without your generosity and foresight in planting a memorial or celebration tree in a U.S. National Forest. The Chippewa United States National Forest in Minnesota is now beginning its renaissance for generations to come thanks to you. As the project director for this project stated: “This project is an excellent example demonstrating the myriad ways in which forests benefit wildlife, local communities, and their landscapes. The forests restored through this project will bring about vital ecological services while serving as a natural oasis for years to come.” The nice thing is that The Gifted Tree makes it easy to plant a tree to celebrate an important milestone or to plant a memorial tree in memory of a loved one, in Minnesota or in 80+ locations around the world.

January 24, 2025/by Doug Bell