Plant a Tree in Israel: Comparing Programs for Jewish Supporters Around the World
Introduction
Plant a tree in Israel is more than a symbolic act and help nature reserves —it’s a deeply rooted tradition in Jewish culture. For generations, Jewish families around the world have marked special occasions or expressed solidarity with Israel in a meaningful way by contributing to tree planting initiatives. Many organizations help facilitate tree planting in Israel, providing a way for people worldwide to contribute.
Today, with a growing number of organizations offering this meaningful service online, choosing the right program can be overwhelming. This article compares popular services that help you plant a tree in Israel, exploring their differences in pricing, purpose, certification, and environmental impact. Planting a tree in Israel costs about $36 USD per tree.
Why Planting Trees in Israel Matters
From biblical times to modern Zionism, trees have symbolized renewal, growth, and connection to the Land of Israel. Planting a tree for a bar or bat mitzvah, wedding, birth, or in memory of someone has become a cherished way to root personal milestones in Jewish heritage. Participants in tree planting can experience a ritual that includes a Planters Prayer and personal dedications.
It’s also a tangible way to show support for Israel’s environment and future. Many choose to plant a tree in Israel as a memorial, combining tradition with meaningful tribute. Trees play a significant role in carbon capture, reducing climate change impact.
Top Tree Planting Services in Israel Compared
Here’s a breakdown of the most well-known tree planting programs:
JNF USA
With the Jewish National Fund service, trees are planted in forests throughout Israel. You can choose between printed or digital certificates. Common purposes include memorials and simchas (celebrations). Prices start at $18. It’s widely recognized and offers customizable certificates.
KKL-JNF Israel
This service plants trees in national forests and offers either digital or mailed certificates. It’s popular among tourists and for commemorative purposes. The cost ranges from ₪40-60 or more. A unique feature is the option for on-site planting experiences.
Greening Israel
Trees are planted in the Galilee region, and a digital certificate is provided. It’s a general support program with a lower entry price of $15. The program has a simpler, less formal presentation.
Website: https://greeningisrael.com/
National Jewish Memorial Wall: Offers planting in various forests and includes a certificate with an optional listing on a memorial wall. It is often chosen for yahrzeits and dedications. Price is around $18, with the added feature of dual memorial recognition.
Shiva.com
This service partners with Jewish National Fund and provides digital certificates. It’s tailored for sending sympathy gestures, particularly in line with Jewish mourning practices. The cost is $18. Website: https://www.shiva.com/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/plant-a-tree
Trees for the Holy Land
Plantings occur in forests throughout Israel. Physical certificates are mailed. Common uses include holidays and family simchas. The service is priced around $20 and caters to both Jewish and Christian supporters.
Website: https://www.treesfortheholyland.com/
Hadassah/JNF
Partnering with Jewish National Fund, this program plants in Israeli forests and includes certificates. It’s used for memorials and celebrations. Starting price is $18. It also supports Hadassah’s broader medical and philanthropic efforts.
Concerns to Consider:Should You Plant Any Tree?
Not everyone agrees that planting trees is always the best way to support Israel’s environment. in recent years, the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel (SPNI) try to Eco the hazards in planting trees without supervision , some tree-planting efforts may unintentionally harm local ecosystems if done without ecological planning. Native biodiversity can be affected by mass planting of non-native species, and reforestation isn’t always the best solution in certain areas.
Still, many organizations have evolved their practices, focusing on ecological restoration and native species. It’s worth checking whether the program you’re supporting works with Israeli environmental bodies or aligns with conservation goals.
How to Choose the Right Program for You Think about your intention:
Memorial or tribute? Consider JNF USA, National Jewish Memorial Wall, or Shiva.com
Budget-conscious? Greening Israel offers affordable options
Want something official with strong roots in Israel? KKL-JNF or Hadassah/JNF provide legacy credibility
Prefer ecological transparency? Research each program’s forestry partners and species choices
Whether you’re looking for tree planting in Israel as a memorial or simply to support the land, selecting the right organization helps align your action with your values.
Conclusion: Let Your Roots Reach Israel
Planting a tree in Israel continues to be a beloved gesture of hope, memory, and identity. Whether you choose to plant a tree in Israel, plant a tree in memory Israel, or explore options for tree planting in Israel as memorial acts, by choose to plant a tree today you contribute not just to the land but to the legacy of the Jewish people.