In brief
Cemeteries across the U.S. are shifting from manicured lawns to vibrant, biodiverse meadows, creating inviting spaces for humanity and wildlife alike, particularly during the pandemic when the public sought refuge in nature.
Across the United States, the once-silent resting places of the dead are breathing new life as cemeteries adopt rewilding practices to cultivate healthier ecosystems. This shift is being embraced in diverse settings, from Catholic and Jewish burial grounds to sprawling private cemeteries acting as green oases in urban environments. In response to changing public attitudes informed by the pandemic, groundskeepers and conservationists are allowing grasses to grow wild, reducing mowing, and replacing traditional manicured lawns with native wildflower meadows and drought-resistant plants. Such practices not only promote biodiversity but also serve as vital habitats for wildlife, improving the ecological balance of these green spaces.In 2020, visitations to cemeteries soared as communities sought safe outdoor environments, with historic sites like Laurel Hill and Green-Wood attracting new crowds. Attendees have greeted the transformation with enthusiasm, finding beauty in the wildflowers and native shrubs that have replaced uniform grass. As Joseph Charap, vice president of horticulture at Green-Wood Cemetery, noted, the public's reaction evolved to one of appreciation, with many embracing the aesthetic and ecological benefits of decaying lawns.With green spaces becoming more precious in urban settings, rewilding projects are proving that these sacred sites can serve dual purposes: honoring those who have passed while nurturing the living community around them. The shift toward allowing nature to reclaim its territory celebrates the interconnectedness of life, death, and the natural world, creating a tapestry of biodiversity that enriches the urban experience.
