Tree Pod Burial Costs

As unconventional burial methods gain popularity, more people are opting for tree pod burials. In a tree pod burial, a deceased person is placed in a biodegradable coffin or pod which is then buried near or under a tree.

Over time, the body nourishes the tree as it decomposes. While appealing to many who want a more natural end of life option, tree pod burials do come with certain costs.

Today, we'll explore all the factors that contribute to tree pod burial costs and give you an idea of what to budget.

Basic Tree Pod Burial Package Costs

The basic costs you can expect to pay for a tree pod burial include:

• Biodegradable burial pod/coffin - $800-1500
• Service/plot/permitting fees from the cemetery or burial ground - $500-1500
• Transportation of the body to the burial site - $200-500
• Labor for preparing the burial site and placing the pod - $500-1000

So for just the essential burial services and materials, plan to spend at least $2000-4500 for a basic tree pod burial. This does not include any memorialization options or additional services.

Additional Fees and Considerations

There are a few other costs you may encounter depending on your specific needs and location:

Tree Selection and Planting

If the tree is not already established at the burial site, you'll need to source and plant a new tree. Expect to pay $200-500 for the tree itself and $500-1000 for professional planting and care.

Memorialization

Many choose to have a small headstone, plaque or other marker to denote the burial site. Plan on $300-1000 for a basic memorial.

Transportation Costs

If the burial site is far from your hometown, factor in additional costs for transporting the body across long distances. For example, travel across multiple states could add $1000-3000 to your total costs.

Funeral Home Fees

While not strictly necessary, some funeral homes now offer tree pod burial services including pod selection and burial coordination. Work with a natural or green funeral home to get quotes including their fees.

Additional Expenses to Consider

Other related costs you may encounter as part of choosing a tree pod burial include:

• Embalming (if required) - $1000-2000
• Casket/urn if choosing cremation beforehand - $1000-3000
• Cremation (if choosing cremation beforehand) - $1000-3000
• Death certificates - $15-30 each
• Obituary placement in newspapers - $100-500
• Legal fees for paperwork/permits - $500-1500

Can I Lower The Cost?

Yes, there are some ways you may be able to reduce the expense of a tree pod burial:

• Source a biodegradable burial pod yourself from online retailers for $300-800 instead of relying on funeral homes.
• Choose a DIY burial without involving a funeral home to eliminate their service fees.
• Use family or volunteer labor where possible instead of paid burial professionals.
• Plant a small, less expensive tree rather than a large mature specimen.
• Opt for a simple wooden cross or plaque instead of an engraved headstone.
• Transport the body yourself if the distance is not too far.

With some creative cost-saving measures, it's possible to bring a basic tree burial package down to $1000-3000 depending on your location and individual needs.

Financial Assistance Options

If costs are still a barrier, explore these potential sources of financial assistance:

• Veterans burial benefits for qualifying military veterans and spouses.
• County or state indigent burial programs for low-income individuals.
• Crowdfunding campaigns to raise funds from family and friends.
• Low-cost or payment plan options from natural funeral homes.
• Life insurance policies may help cover funeral/burial costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to other common questions about tree pod burial costs:

Are tree pod burials legal?

Laws on natural or green burials vary by location. Be sure to check with your state and local regulations regarding tree pod burials on public or private land. Many natural cemeteries now support this option.

What trees work best for burial?

Fast-growing hardwood trees are often chosen like oak, maple, birch or fruit trees as they provide shade and nourishment. Always check with the landowner for plant compatibility.

How long until the body decomposes?

Complete decomposition can take 3-7 years on average depending on soil and environmental factors. The body nourishes surrounding plants while fully returning to the earth naturally.

Is the burial site marked permanently?

Temporary memorialization like a wooden cross is common. Over time as the tree grows, it serves as the final resting place marker providing solace to loved ones.