What to Do with Funeral Flowers: A Journey Through Memory and Renewal

Funeral flowers, often seen as symbols of love, respect, and remembrance, hold a unique place in the rituals of mourning. They are not just decorative elements; they carry deep emotional significance. But what happens to these flowers after the funeral? This article explores various ways to handle funeral flowers, offering a range of ideas that honor the memory of the departed while also finding new life for these beautiful blooms.

1. Preserving the Memory: Drying and Pressing Flowers

One of the most traditional ways to preserve funeral flowers is by drying or pressing them. This method allows you to keep the flowers as a lasting memento.

Drying Flowers: You can air-dry flowers by hanging them upside down in a dark, dry place. Alternatively, silica gel can be used to dry flowers more quickly while retaining their shape and color.
Pressing Flowers: Pressing flowers between the pages of a heavy book is a simple method. For more delicate flowers, a flower press can be used to ensure they dry flat and retain their beauty.

Once dried or pressed, these flowers can be framed, used in scrapbooks, or incorporated into memorial crafts, such as creating a shadow box or a memory jar.

2. Creating a Memorial Garden

Another meaningful way to use funeral flowers is by planting them in a memorial garden. This can be a dedicated space in your yard or a community garden where you can visit and reflect.

Choosing the Right Flowers: Select flowers that were significant to the deceased or those that were present at the funeral. Perennials are a good choice as they will return year after year.
Designing the Garden: Consider incorporating a bench, a plaque, or a small fountain to create a peaceful environment. The garden can become a place of solace and remembrance.

3. Donating Flowers to Hospitals or Nursing Homes

Funeral flowers can bring joy to others who may be in need of comfort. Donating them to hospitals, nursing homes, or hospices can spread the beauty and positivity of the flowers to those who might appreciate them the most.

Contacting Local Institutions: Reach out to local hospitals or nursing homes to see if they accept flower donations. Some institutions may have specific guidelines or restrictions.
Arranging the Donation: Ensure the flowers are still fresh and presentable. You may need to transport them yourself or arrange for a florist to deliver them.

4. Composting: Returning to the Earth

For those who prefer a more eco-friendly approach, composting funeral flowers is a way to return them to the earth. This process not only reduces waste but also contributes to the growth of new life.

Setting Up a Compost Bin: If you don’t already have a compost bin, consider starting one. Flowers, along with other organic materials, can be added to create nutrient-rich compost.
Using the Compost: The resulting compost can be used to enrich your garden soil, helping new plants to grow. This cycle of life and renewal can be a comforting metaphor for the grieving process.

5. Creating Art or Keepsakes

Funeral flowers can be transformed into various forms of art or keepsakes, providing a creative outlet for grief and a tangible way to remember the loved one.

Resin Art: Flowers can be encased in resin to create jewelry, paperweights, or decorative items. This method preserves the flowers in a clear, durable medium.
Candle Making: Dried flower petals can be incorporated into homemade candles, creating a unique and fragrant memorial item.
Potpourri: Dried flowers can be mixed with essential oils and other natural materials to create potpourri, which can be placed in bowls or sachets around the home.

Sometimes, the best way to honor the memory of a loved one is by sharing the funeral flowers with family and friends. This can be done in several ways:

Dividing the Flowers: After the funeral, the flowers can be divided among attendees, allowing each person to take a piece of the memorial home with them.
Creating Small Bouquets: Smaller bouquets can be made from the larger arrangements and given to close family members or friends as a keepsake.
Sending Flowers to Others: If there are too many flowers to keep, consider sending some to other loved ones who may not have been able to attend the funeral.

7. Using Flowers in Rituals or Ceremonies

Incorporating funeral flowers into personal or cultural rituals can add depth and meaning to the grieving process.

Scattering Petals: In some cultures, flower petals are scattered as part of a memorial service, symbolizing the release of the soul or the spreading of love.
Creating a Flower Circle: A circle of flowers can be created around a photo or memorial item, serving as a focal point for remembrance.
Burning Flowers: In certain traditions, flowers are burned as an offering or as part of a purification ritual. This can be a powerful way to symbolize letting go.

8. Repurposing Flowers for Future Events

Funeral flowers can be repurposed for other events, such as anniversaries, birthdays, or other memorial services. This can be a way to keep the memory of the loved one alive in future celebrations.

Reusing Arrangements: If the flowers are still fresh, they can be rearranged and used for another event. This can be particularly meaningful if the event is related to the deceased.
Creating New Arrangements: Dried flowers can be used to create new arrangements for future memorials or family gatherings, ensuring that the flowers continue to play a role in honoring the loved one.

9. Digital Memorials: Photographing the Flowers

In the digital age, creating a digital memorial can be a modern way to preserve the memory of funeral flowers.

Taking High-Quality Photos: Photograph the flowers in good lighting and from various angles. These photos can be shared online or printed and framed.
Creating a Digital Album: Compile the photos into a digital album that can be shared with family and friends. This can be a lasting tribute that can be accessed anytime.
Using Social Media: Share the photos on social media platforms, along with memories or messages about the deceased. This can create a virtual space for collective mourning and remembrance.

10. Symbolic Release: Floating Flowers on Water

A symbolic release of flowers on water can be a poignant way to say goodbye. This can be done in a natural body of water, such as a lake, river, or ocean.

Choosing the Right Flowers: Select flowers that float well, such as roses or lilies. Ensure that the flowers are biodegradable to avoid environmental harm.
Organizing a Ceremony: Gather family and friends for a small ceremony where the flowers are released onto the water. This can be accompanied by prayers, songs, or personal reflections.

Conclusion

Funeral flowers, though often associated with loss, can also be a source of comfort, beauty, and renewal. Whether preserved, donated, composted, or repurposed, these flowers can continue to play a meaningful role in the lives of those who grieve. By finding new ways to honor and remember our loved ones through these flowers, we can transform a symbol of farewell into one of enduring connection and hope.

Q: Can I use funeral flowers to make essential oils? A: While it is possible to extract essential oils from certain flowers, the process is complex and typically requires a large quantity of flowers. It may be more practical to use the flowers for other purposes, such as drying or pressing.

Q: Are there any flowers that should not be composted? A: Most flowers can be composted, but it’s important to avoid flowers that have been treated with pesticides or other chemicals. Additionally, some flowers, like lilies, can be toxic to pets, so be cautious if you plan to use the compost in areas accessible to animals.

Q: How long do dried flowers last? A: Dried flowers can last for several years if kept in a dry, dark place. However, they may fade over time, especially if exposed to direct sunlight or humidity.

Q: Can I donate funeral flowers to a church or place of worship? A: Yes, many churches and places of worship accept flower donations. They may use the flowers to decorate the altar or other areas, or they may distribute them to members of the congregation.

Q: What should I do if I have too many flowers to handle? A: If you find yourself with an overwhelming number of flowers, consider sharing them with others, donating them to local institutions, or composting them. You can also reach out to a local florist for advice on how to manage the flowers.