Avatar for Tfxx
Jan 25, 2024 4:51 PM CST
Thread OP
Perth, Australia
I have my dads ashes and would like to incorporate that into the soil of a plant that I can be able to grow inside and be sturdy but have some prettiness to it as my dad was rough in past years but beautiful in his last but also because I don't have much of a green thumb. Perhaps a certain type of cacti/succulent? I'm unsure on what to choose and what would be not only suited to the situation but also my growing capabilities.
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Jan 25, 2024 9:00 PM CST
California Central Valley (Zone 8b)
Region: California
Have you thought about finding a potter who could incorporate your Dad's ashes into the clay body and/or glaze of a vase or bowl? My cousin was a professional potter- she did it quite often.

https://consciousclay.com.au
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Jan 26, 2024 7:13 AM CST
Name: Sally
central Maryland (Zone 7b)
See you in the funny papers!
Charter ATP Member Frogs and Toads Houseplants Keeper of Poultry Vegetable Grower Region: Maryland
Composter Native Plants and Wildflowers Organic Gardener Region: United States of America Cat Lover Birds
Lucy's suggestion sounds lovely.

Caution about succulents- many do not thrive in windowsill or tabletop conditions where folks often put them, thinking they are totally carefree plants. Many need very bright light that doesn't happen indoors.
Are you hoping to use all the ashes in this plant? That would probably have to be a big plant.

To plan for a long term plant, start with where would the plant live. What are the conditions there?
Plant it and they will come.
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Jan 26, 2024 9:39 AM CST
Taos, New Mexico (Zone 5b)
Crescit Eundo
Greenhouse Lover of wildlife (Black bear badge) Region: New Mexico
I agree with Sally that you need to choose based on the local conditions.

But I would also suggest that if you are unsure of your gardening skills don't tie your memories of your father to your success with any type of plant. Instead you can put his remains in a urn in your garden and work on your gardening skills without worry. I've got some of my family members in urns in my garden. If I have a problem with a plant I can replace the plant without any guilt.

If you are wondering, there are a huge variety of urns designed to be used outdoors.
Last edited by Henderman Jan 26, 2024 9:46 AM Icon for preview
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Jan 26, 2024 10:28 AM CST
Name: Zoë
Albuquerque NM, Elev 5310 ft (Zone 7b)
Bee Lover Salvias Region: New Mexico Herbs Container Gardener Composter
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I agree with Lucy, Sally and Henderman. At the risk of sounding irreverent — and truly that's not intended — if your plant fails, and maybe another, you're stuck dragging around a pot of dirt indefinitely. Perhaps search "ways to save ashes" for many beautiful ideas for more saveable keepsakes. 💚
Avatar for MsDoe
Jan 26, 2024 9:12 PM CST
Southwest U.S. (Zone 7a)
Hello Tfxx, and welcome to the forum.
Condolences on the loss of your dad, and good for you for taking responsibility for his remains.
Just to share a bit of my experience with houseplants. I've kept plants for over 30 years, and currently have quite a few. I've lost some and added some, there are only one or two that have survived that whole time. There are none that are in the same soil. They require re-potting every few years, with a complete change of soil.
So let me say this kindly but clearly: mixing Dad's ashes in with planting mix will not keep him and a healthy plant close to you for the long term.
I suggest getting started with a plant you can dedicate to his memory, but do something else with the ashes. Did he ever express any preference himself?
What are your growing conditions like? Cactus and succulents are actually somewhat difficult to grow indoors. Right now I'm leaning toward peace lily, they do great for me but some people to find them difficult.
Indoor gardening is a great hobby. Start slowly and find what works for you. This forum is a great place to come to for advice.
Best wishes to you, and welcome to our gardening community.
Welcome!
(PS My son recently vacationed in Perth, had a great time, he especially enjoyed the people of Western Australia, Rottnest Island, and the Quokkas.)
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