Life in the Garden

Matters of Life and Death

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Scattering Methods for Ashes

There are many ways that scattering methods can be used to create a personalized ceremony. For families that choose scattering as a method of dispersing ashes, many still like to have a small portion of the ashes or a lock of hair incorporated into a small memorial such as a piece of cremation jewelry or keepsake urn . Others prefer creating a memorial that may include a stepping stone , garden plaque, statuary, or a garden sculpture to honor their loved one. Garden stones can also be used indoors or out, and all create loving touches in your sacred space. Whatever your decision, this is a personal choice that is meant to honor and represent your passed loved one as well as heal, restore, and remember the time and life that your loved one spent on Earth.

cremation urns

Keeping it on the Down Low: Ceremony for Spreading Ashes

scattering ashes from the eiffel tower

Some families like to scatter ashes from way up high, this lady is releasing a keepsake amount of cremated ashes from the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

Or this undisclosed location:

scattering ashes ceremony

We prefer to keep it on the down low, whether spreading ashes on the ground or over the water:

spreading ashes ceremony

U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Gabriel Hernandez
U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Gabriel Hernandez

If you plan to spread the ashes on the ground, a shallow trench or groove can be dug in the soil or sand where the ashes can be placed. This process can be personalized by drawing out the person’s name or a heart shaped trench. Add candles or luminaries around the trench to create a spiritual ambiance and can be later used as a keepsake for those that attend.  Wildflower seeds and  tree plantings are another way to personalize the event. At the end of the ceremony, participants can either rake over the remains in the trench, or have the water from the ocean sweep the remains out to sea while family and friends join hands and remember the individual’s life.

urns for scattering ashes

Dust in the Wind: Scattering Ashes Ceremony

The most common method of scattering ashes is known as “casting” , which is basically tossing the ashes into the wind.  Let’s talk about the WIND.  Consider wind direction and try to cast down to prevent “blow-back”.  The dense nature of human ashes combined with a fine powder forms a whitish-gray cloud when it becomes airborne.

Some families want to release the ashes all at once, and others want to spread the ashes as a group, each member taking a turn scattering the remains.

This family opted to split the ashes in individual envelopes, some DIY-ers use paper cups.   Your family funeral director can make this process much easier if you need assistance or have questions regarding this process.

Scattering tubes and biodegradable scattering urns are also available.

urns for scattering ashes

American Pride Urn

Feel like doing some flag waving today and roll out a new urn design for the Urn Garden patriotic collection.

American Pride Urn
American Pride Urn

The American Price urn solid brass cremation urn features a rich slate finish, hand-engraved with an American Eagle and the American Flag. Secure threaded lid.

Comes in three styles, full-size adult urn, matching keepsake, and heart-shaped keepsake urn.

American Pride Keepsake Urn
American Pride Keepsake Urn

Simple Pleasures in the Garden

Earlier this Spring, I threw some seed down and these beauties sprang from the soil. Wish I knew what they’re called. Last fall, my neighbor let me harvest the seed, she said they were an old plant and didn’t know what they were.

Not only are they beautiful, they are hardy, the soil isn’t that great, and I haven’t done a thing to them. Added bonus: the hummingbirds love them.

If you want some, leave a comment and I’ll share the love.