How to Attach Flowers to a Headstone

Wind blows flowers off headstones. Here are safe ways to keep them in place.

Headstone saddle

A foam base with a grip that sits over the top of an upright stone.

Vases

Built-in or added granite vases are the most secure. See headstone vases.

Ground cones and stakes

Spiked cones push into the ground in front of the stone.

What not to do

Never glue, tape, wire or drill. Adhesive residue stains granite.

Silk vs fresh flowers

• Fresh flowers look beautiful but fade within days in heat.
• Silk flowers last months but can fade and must be replaced.
• Potted plants last longer where allowed.
• Seasonal swaps keep the grave looking cared for.

Cemeteries remove faded arrangements during clean-ups, so check dates. See decoration rules.

Flowers by season

Choosing flowers that suit the weather keeps the grave looking cared for:

• Spring — tulips, daffodils and hyacinths in pots or a saddle.
• Summer — hardy geraniums, marigolds and silk arrangements that resist heat.
• Autumn — mums, wheat and autumn-leaf saddles.
• Winter — evergreen sprays, grave blankets and red ribbon.

In hot weather, fresh cut flowers fade within days; potted plants or quality silk last much longer. See Easter decorations and grave blankets.

Seasonal flower ideas

• Spring — tulips, daffodils and hyacinths.
• Summer — roses, sunflowers and daisies.
• Autumn — chrysanthemums, wheat and maple leaves.
• Winter — evergreen boughs, holly and poinsettias.

Silk flowers last longer but fade in sun; replace them every few months.

What to avoid

A few common methods can damage the stone or break cemetery rules:

• Glue or adhesive putty leaves residue that stains polished granite.
• Wire wrapped around the stone scratches polish and can cut into lettering.
• Nails or stakes near the foundation can crack the setting.
• Glass containers may shatter and injure mowing crews.

A proper vase, a saddle or a weighted holder is safest.

Key Takeaways

• Saddles suit uprights.
• Vases are most secure.
• No glue, tape or drilling.

Next Step

See adding a vase to an existing headstone.