A way back to nature — tree burials in Berlin

How can I make a burial in the funeral forest mandatory during my lifetime?

Many people want to decide early on that they will be buried later in a funeral forest. This is possible through funeral provision. With an appropriate contractual arrangement, you can ensure during your lifetime that your funeral is carried out according to your personal requirements.

The following steps are important:

• Choice of burial location: Opt for a FriedWald, RuheForst or a tree burial in a cemetery.
• Reserving a tree spot: In many funeral forests, a tree or a spot can be reserved while still alive.
• Conclusion of a pension contract: With a funeral home such as Memovida, you can make binding provisions. This includes organizational details and financial security.
• Submission of requests: Your loved ones should be aware of your decision. Alternatively, a funeral order or a will can record your wishes.

We would be happy to advise you on the options for Funeral provision and help you take all necessary steps.

Forest Burial FAQs

What are the rules for burial in the forest?

In Germany, tree burials are only possible in specially approved funeral forests such as FriedWald or RuheForst and in selected cemeteries. The following requirements must be met:

• Only a biodegradable urn may be used.
• The burial must be carried out by an approved cemetery or forest administration.
• The grave is not individually designed — there are no classic tombstones or borders.
• In most forests, naming on the tree is optional.

What is the difference between FriedWald and a tree burial in a cemetery?

• FriedWald: Natural burial forests outside classic cemeteries, where urns are buried directly at the roots of a tree. Nature remains largely untouched, and there are no permanent tombs or individual plantings.
• Tree burial in a cemetery: This takes place in a specially designed area within a cemetery. The surrounding area is mostly park-like, and there are often community trees or individual grave sites under trees. Sometimes discreet grave markings or small memorial stones are allowed.

Both variants offer near-natural burial options, with FriedWald and RuheForst burials often offering greater proximity to untouched nature.

Which flowers are suitable for a forest burial?

Since forest burials are based on the principle of being close to nature, natural flower arrangements or individual flowers are recommended. The following options are suitable:

• wildflowers and wildflowers such as daisies, cornflowers or lavender
• Blossom branches from local trees, such as oak, birch or maple
• moss arrangements or small flower arrangementsthat biodegrade
• flowers without plastic or wireso as not to pollute the environment

Many funeral forests have special regulations for grave decoration. Artificial flowers, wreaths with non-degradable materials or elaborate arrangements are generally not allowed. We would be happy to advise you on which design options are possible in your chosen funeral forest.

We are always available for further information or individual advice.