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Writer's pictureAmy Dawson
Oct 29

Wind Phones and Trees: A Thoughtful Discussion


Wind Phones are a unique way for people to connect with their loved ones who have passed. They are typically placed in a serene outdoor setting, allowing visitors to have thoughtful conversations in nature. Lately, I have received many questions about attaching Wind Phones to trees.

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At its core, a Wind Phone serves as a symbolic space for remembrance, offering a means to express grief and celebrate memories. They are typically placed in a serene outdoor setting, providing a tranquil atmosphere for those seeking solace. However, how Wind Phones are attached—especially to trees—has raised concerns among conservationists and enthusiasts.

 

I am not a tree expert by any means—I don’t know much about trees at all! So, I reached out to my childhood friend, David Riley, a highly regarded landscape architect with extensive experience in the Seattle area.* His insights have been invaluable, and I am grateful for his expertise as I navigate this often-heated topic.


“Here are a few facts. A healthy tree will withstand nails/screws/ predrilling for lag bolts etc. They experience the intrusion- redirect resin- redirect viral nutrient flow through the vertical system between roots and leaves/needles/fronds in the xylem and phloem (which make up the tings of trees/plants) columns.

The outer “ring” of any tree grows just below the bark layer- it’s called the cambium. Responsible for healing or callusing over a wound when, say, a branch breaks or is scarred, trees are pretty resilient—HEALTHY trees, that is. What they do not “like” is to be strapped/girdled or braced. This restricts outward growth, which every tree constantly works at— adding growth outward and adding another ring. One method to attach a bolt or nail to a tree is to secure it with a washer, cutting away the bark- exposing the cambium layer, and tightening up a spacer or washer between a Wind Phone and the tree at that point. This encourages the cambium to callus over the hardware and seal the wound. Of course, anytime anything penetrates a tree column, it has the potential to create an entry for pests- bacterial infections, etc., but again- a healthy tree will be able to handle it. Avoid bracing something- with a framework as it’ll rub and create constant irritation a tree can’t combat- avoid strapping or wiring. I know it sounds harsh to use nails or screws, but companies are out there selling hardware and spacers for pro tree builders in our area- and they work well.”


After spending some time researching this topic, one thing is clear: it is essential to prioritize the tree’s health before placing a Wind Phone on it. I found tree health experts recommend a few simple tips for installing a Wind Phone:

 

  1. Pick the Right Tree: Choose a strong, healthy tree/species that can handle some changes.

  2. Minimize Damage: Use tree-friendly hardware that allows for growth.

  3. Ask an Arborist: Get advice from a professional who specializes in tree care and management to ensure the installation will not harm the tree.

  4. Consider other options: There are many alternative housing ideas for installing a Wind Phone among the trees. At www.mywindphone.com, you’ll find hundreds of pictures of Wind Phones created and placed in creative ways.

 

Ultimately, deciding to attach a Wind Phone to a tree is something to consider carefully. As we continue to talk about Wind Phones and trees, it is essential to raise awareness and have open discussions about how we can honor our loved ones while also caring for the environment. We can create sacred spaces for grief that enrich our lives while preserving the trees and the beauty of the world around us!

 


Since looking at trees more carefully, I've driven past some interesting ones.

Photo 1 - The Hi sign is "attached" by a broken branch. Further up the road is a sign that says goodbye.

Photo 2 - I just think it's neat the way the branches frame the moon outside my window

Photo 3 and 4 - Malvern, PA

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Leave a comment and share your thoughts on this subject.

 

*David, I want to express my heartfelt thanks for your expert insights on tree health. Your knowledge has been invaluable, and I truly appreciate the time you've taken to share it with us. Beyond your expertise, I am so thankful for your 50+ year friendship, which I value deeply.

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2 Comments

Guest
Oct 30

Yes, thank you. I’m thinking that planting a tree next to a wind phone

would be a beautiful tribute….🌳🌬️☎️

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Guest
Oct 29

Thank you for sharing this valuable information! I definitely had concerns regarding the trees!

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