How to Decorate Gravestones
Visits to a grave can be an important element in the grieving process. Decorating a gravestone is a thoughtful way to memorialize and honor a loved one after they've passed on. However, not every flower or plant is suitable for a gravestone as some can grow enormously over time, covering the letters and name on the gravestone. Here are some guidelines to make adornment of a loved one's resting place an easier affair.
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Instructions
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Add a wreath to a gravestone. A wreath is a simple but classic way to decorate a gravestone as the flowers have already been cut and arranged, and there is no danger of them growing out of control, concealing the letters on the gravestone. Most wreaths, when the flowers dry out, still maintain an elegant if faded appearance. A wreath can simply be leaned against the gravestone, or placed flat at its foot. A wreath should be replaced, at most, at the two-month mark.
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Check with the cemetery caretaker or the church with which the cemetery is affiliated and inquire if you can plant flowers or other plant life near the gravestone. Most cemeteries have restrictions on the types of plants and flowers that can adorn a gravestone and some prohibit flowers entirely, according to Marjabelle Young Stewart, author of "The New Etiquette." It is best to double check with the cemetery authorities first.
If you obtain permission, dig a few small shallow holes with a small shovel and plant annuals such as marigolds, snapdragons, zinnias and impatiens. These flowers are decorative without causing harm to the gravestone. Consider planting small trees or shrubs by the gravestone, but keep in mind those need to be trimmed every year so that they don't grow too massive and hide the gravestone.
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Communicate with the cemetery caretaker or official church and ask if you can place decorative objects beside the gravestone. "Most cemeteries now strive for a bland uniformity" according to Stewart, so while it might seem innocuous, double check with the caretaker or church. If they permit it, consider placing a shepherd's curved rod beside the gravestone. That will give you the opportunity to hang items on it like bird cages stuffed with flowers or candles, baskets of plants, or even framed pictures or artificial flowers. Make sure that you are able to secure the shepherd's hook securely into the ground.
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Tips & Warnings
Artificial flowers are always an option and suitable for gravestones in areas where rain is not plentiful.
Keep in mind that some people do take objects placed by gravestones.
