`MEMORIAL TREE' SEEDLINGS AVAILABLE THROUGH LORBERG

"Memory Tree" seedlings are available at Lorberg Memorial Funeral Chapel at 433 S. Sprigg in Cape Girardeau.

The Memory Tree is a blue spruce evergreen that can be planted inside or outdoors, said Betty Kuss, an owner and funeral director at Lorberg Memorial Funeral Chapel.

"Instructions for planting are included with the seedling," Kuss said. "We are giving these seedlings out as gifts."

The program is part Lorberg's "after care" program, which helps families live with the grief of losing a loved one.

"We are giving these seedlings as gifts because we realize their physical and spiritual healing benefits," she said. "Families are also looking for meaningful ways to remember their loved ones. The Memory Trees are a direct answer to that need."

The seedlings are available to anyone who has lost a loved one over the past six months.

This is a good time of year to plant the seeding outside, Kuss said, adding: "Plants can be planted outside during the fall or spring."

For inside planting, a 1-gallon container is needed, half-filled with soil. The seedling should be placed inside in a partly sunny spot, away from direct heat, and watered only when very dry.

"It can be planted outside during the spring," Kuss said.

The blue spruce is commonly planted in yards because of its silvery-blue appearance, and is popular as Christmas trees.

Additional information is available by calling (314)-335-3223.