When you are planning a cremation or ash scattering ceremony for a loved one, it is important to choose flowers that bring comfort and peace. Flowers have long been used in funerals and memorial services as a way to express sympathy, honor, and love for the deceased. With cremation becoming more popular, many families and friends must now decide what flowers are right for a cremation or ash scattering ceremony.
Roses are always a popular choice and come in many different colors, allowing you to choose the one that best matches your loved one’s personality or favorite color. Other options include lilies, carnations, gladiolus, chrysanthemums, and daisies. These flowers are often used for funeral bouquets, casket arrangements, and memorial wreaths, but they can also be used in a cremation or ash scattering ceremony to symbolize love, remembrance, and respect.
The Meaning of Different Types of Flowers
Roses represent love and appreciation, while lilies symbolize innocence and purity. Carnations signify faithfulness and love, while gladiolus stands for strength of character. Chrysanthemums are often used to express sadness or grief, while daisies symbolize hope. Whatever type of flower you choose, its presence will help bring comfort and peace to those attending the cremation or ash scattering ceremony.
Religious Symbolism
Flowers often have religious significance. In Christianity, lilies are associated with the purity and resurrection of Jesus, while roses symbolize His love. Carnations represent divine joy and gladness, and chrysanthemums remind us of the beauty of God’s creation. In Judaism, white flowers such as lilies and daisies are used to signify the purity of the soul.
Is It Okay To Spread Flowers Along With Cremated Ashes?
It is usually acceptable to spread flowers along with cremated ashes. This practice can be a meaningful way to honor a loved one, as their remains and the petals of the flower join together in one final tribute. If you are planning an ash scattering ceremony, it is important to consider any local regulations that restrict where and when ashes may be spread.
Flowers for Scattering Ashes at Sea
If you are planning to scatter the ashes of your loved one at sea, it is important to choose flowers that will not pollute the water or negatively affect sea life. The Environmental Protection Agency and state laws require that flowers tossed into waterways with human cremains must be biodegradable. No plastic or metal is allowed.
Flowers with petals that float will show the path the ashes take in the water and allow those present to follow their loved one’s final journey until both flowers and ashes disappear in the distance or sink beneath the waves.
When you are planning a cremation or ash scattering ceremony for a loved one, choosing the right flowers can be a meaningful way to honor their memory. Roses, lilies, carnations, gladiolus, chrysanthemums, and daisies are all popular choices that represent love, appreciation, faithfulness, strength of character, and hope. You can also incorporate religious symbolism into the ceremony with certain flowers. Lastly, if you are planning to scatter ashes at sea, it is important to choose real flowers that are biodegradable.
Whether you choose a single type of flower or combine several different kinds, your thoughtful gesture is sure to be appreciated by those attending the cremation or ash scattering service.