Cemeteries in Transition

Cemeteries are undergoing a transformation. The traditional form of burial—the in-ground grave—is also in sharp decline in Mainz, giving way to space-saving urn graves and columbariums. Large burial plots, which were still needed for in-ground burials until the turn of the millennium, are gradually becoming available. At all 14 cemeteries in Mainz, the growing demand for cremation with urn interment is creating a total of approximately 1,600 m² of additional open space each year.

In the medium term, these areas will no longer be needed as burial plots, so their maintenance will be scaled back. This will allow for the development of structural diversity that supports biodiversity and habitats. The cemeteries in Mainz are noticeably taking on expanded, positive roles for people and nature: as places for local recreation and as habitats for animals and plants. Thanks to their mature tree populations, they contribute significantly to improving the city’s climate. In this way, cemeteries enhance our quality of life and bring nature into the city.

Nature-Friendly Grave Sites

In this context, it makes sense and is desirable to design graves in cemeteries in a way that is close to nature and sustainable. When properly designed, natural burial sites are visually appealing and reduce maintenance requirements. For example, insects benefit from the selection of plants that are as native as possible and have single flowers. Many cultivated varieties have double flowers, which have an increased number of petals. For bees and other insects, such flowers are not a viable food source because the pollen- and nectar-producing parts are inaccessible to them.

An important concern: a waste-free funeral culture

Plastic grave decorations do not fit in with a nature-oriented grave. According to Wirtschaftsbetrieb Mainz, approximately 70 metric tons of municipal waste were generated at Mainz cemeteries in 2019. This amount of improperly disposed-of residual waste is found in containers that are actually intended only for packaging waste. As a result, wreaths, vases, candle holders, floral foam, and flower packaging, etc., cannot be properly recycled.

In principle, a large portion of this packaging waste could be avoided, as compostable floral arrangements, grave bowls, and wreath bases made from natural materials—as well as refillable grave lights—are just as suitable. Unfortunately, such products, which contribute to a waste-free funeral culture, are not yet standard. Therefore, be sure to specifically ask cemetery florists for sustainable grave decorations that can be purchased through wholesalers. You’ll find a list of some suppliers that also offer eco-friendly materials at the end of this article.

The Myth of Peat

There is a persistent belief that graves must be filled with soil containing peat. What are the pros and cons of peat? It is popular because it retains water well without causing the roots to suffer from a lack of oxygen and thus begin to rot. In addition, its pH level and nutrient content can be easily adjusted depending on the plant being grown. Last but not least, when dry, it’s nice and light, making it easy to transport.

Peat extraction irreversibly destroys entire raised bogs that have taken many decades to form. This extraction releases climate-damaging CO2. The enormous capacity to store CO2—and the habitat of many animals and plants—is thus lost. Don’t be misled when making a purchase, because even “peat-reduced” potting mix still contains about 70–80% peat. But there are good alternatives! Use compost from your own garden or green waste compost available at your local green waste facility, which is made from grass, lawn clippings, woody plant trimmings, hedge clippings, and fall leaves. Bark compost made from tree bark—a byproduct of wood processing—and native wood fibers are also suitable. You can find more information in the list of links below.

How to Create and Maintain a Natural-Looking Grave

When creating a natural-looking grave, in addition to the soil, the right choice of plants is especially important. Evergreen, ground-covering species such as periwinkle or winter heather are ideal for long-lasting and low-maintenance grave plantings. Plant perennial flowering shrubs, tubers, or bulbs in between. Keep seasonal plantings of flowering annual herbs to a minimum.

• When preparing the grave site, use garden compost, green waste compost, bark compost, or local wood fibers.
• Avoid using synthetic fertilizers. These have only a short-term effect because they are immediately and fully available to the soil. Organic fertilizers such as plant compost, horn shavings, or guano have a long-term effect and save you from having to fertilize frequently. Many heat-loving plants do not require any additional fertilization at all.
• A layer of wood chips or bark mulch also helps retain soil moisture. This prevents the soil from drying out too much and stops unwanted weeds from spreading.
• Plant the bed with native herbs and perennials that are adapted to local soil and light conditions. A small, seasonally changing selection of flowering herbs will make maintenance easier for you. An information brochure and a plant list featuring insect-friendly, perennial species are available on the website of the Wirtschaftsbetrieb Mainz; see the list of links.
• Shrubs and trees are not suitable for grave planting, as they quickly grow too large.
• When it comes to maintenance, keep in mind that a grave planted with groundcover and perennials requires significantly less water than a grave with seasonal plantings.
• It’s better to water less frequently but thoroughly, reaching the deeper soil layers. Water in the morning or evening, keeping the water close to the soil surface (do not spray).

The result is a naturally designed, vibrant, and low-maintenance grave that you’ll enjoy visiting. For more information and advice on “Natural Grave Design and Maintenance,” visit the Mainz Environmental Store and the Wirtschaftsbetrieb Mainz.