Leaving flowers at a loved one's grave is a public display of your continued love for the deceased, but harsh rain, falling temperatures and shifting seasons damage delicate blossoms. Many artificial silk flower manufacturers produce flowers with a special chemical coating to protect them from the outdoor conditions of a cemetery. Before choosing a selection, check with the cemetery about particular rules regarding artificial flower arrangements. Does this Spark an idea?
Bouquets
Bouquets made from artificial flowers are one option for adorning a grave site with a colorful arrangement. Some gravestones even come with granite vases or holders for flowers built right into the headstone. Simple silk flowers are an inexpensive option for cemetery bouquets, but latex-dipped silk flowers are a more durable outdoor option if you plan on keeping a single arrangement at the site for several months at a time. Classic choices like red roses depict a romantic connection with the deceased; carnations are more appropriate for family members or friends. Another option is a series of seasonal arrangements; choose sunny silk daisies for the spring and orange silk tiger lilies surrounded by autumn leaves for the fall. Most cemeteries do not allow glass vases due to the risk of tipping and breaking; check with your local cemetery for specific rules regarding bouquet holders.
Wreaths
Wreaths are a traditional option for decorating a headstone. Some cemeteries or nonprofit organizations provide wreaths to veterans on holidays like Memorial Day, but a wreath can be suitable-year round. Artificial wreaths can be made from silk flowers or from plastic flowers and foliage. Plastic flowers tend to appear too waxy to be realistic, but the texture of plastic foliage is well-matched to the naturally waxy surface of many vines and ivy. Add color to an artificial wreath with additional silk or plastic flowers. If the deceased had a favorite flower, add a few silk versions around the wreath for a personal touch. Chrysanthemums blend well into most wreaths; sprigs of artificial berries like holly are a warm and subtle addition.
Potted Plants
Many cemeteries ban real potted plants from inclusion at headstones because of their tendency to spill and leave soil along walkways or other grave sites; fake potted plants that do not use soil and feature weighted bottoms to prevent tipping are an alternative for decorating a grave with flowers. If you opt for a foliage plant like an artificial palm or eucalyptus, consider plastic plants, whose naturally shiny surface is well-matched by a plastic finish. For potted flower arrangements of carnations, marigolds or tulips, silk or latex-dipped silk are better choices in terms of their realistic color, shape and texture. To personalize the arrangement, wrap the pot in ribbon or decorate it with colorful beads displaying a loving memorial message to the deceased.
