Spring Hill Cemetery recently changed its policy to ban artificial flowers as grave decorations, causing concern among families with loved ones buried there. The new rule allows only natural flowers and wreaths made from natural materials, according to the cemetery commission’s decision last week.
Minnie Leonard, who has family members buried at Spring Hill, expressed her worries. She pointed out that many people cannot afford to buy fresh flowers repeatedly, especially when real flowers die quickly or are eaten by animals. Leonard said, “We visit the graves because we want to remember our loved ones. It feels unfair to stop people from placing flowers, especially when most residents can’t afford real ones”.
Charleston City Council Member Shannon Snodgrass also disagreed with the ban. She emphasized that placing flowers is part of grieving and honoring those who have passed away. Snodgrass said, “This tradition is important. Changing it takes away a way people show respect and remember their family. It’s a harsh change”.
Spring Hill Cemetery is a private, non-profit cemetery managed by a volunteer board. While the cemetery allows both living and artificial flowers under normal rules, the recent decision restricts decorations to natural materials only, aiming to maintain the cemetery’s appearance and safety for visitors and staff.
The community’s reaction shows how deeply people value their ways of remembering loved ones. Many hope the cemetery will reconsider the ban to allow artificial flowers again, so families can continue their traditions without added worry.
This issue highlights the balance between cemetery maintenance and respecting family customs, a challenge faced by many cemeteries across the country.
