A Green Oasis in Urban Areas
Where cemeteries were once places people preferred to avoid, they are now increasingly taking on a new role in public space. As memorial parks, they offer peace and relaxation in the midst of busy city life. But how do you design these unique parks? What should you consider in terms of layout and planting? And which tree species are suitable—or perhaps better avoided?
The Green Lungs of the City
In urban areas, historic cemeteries often serve as the city’s green “lungs.” Aerial photos of large cities clearly reveal these memorial parks by their abundance of greenery—especially when contrasted with the surrounding built-up environment. The trees and plants in cemeteries therefore play an important ecological role in the urban climate.
Symbolism
Beyond ecology, the often monumental trees also hold cultural and historical value. Since the beginning of humanity, we have had a special relationship with trees, connecting them with both life and death.
In general, trees symbolize the tree of life. Yet different species carry their own meanings: the oak, for example, represents strength, resilience, and immortality, while the juniper is seen as protection against evil.
Design
Trees play a key role in designing a new cemetery, as well as in expanding or renovating an existing one. They define the atmosphere and overall experience of the space. Still, a cemetery is not just a park—its primary function remains burial.
“The construction and management of cemeteries requires a very specific vision of design and planting,” explains Marko Mouwen, horticultural engineer and tree assortment specialist at Ebben Nurseries. “On cemeteries you need to consider factors such as space requirements, soil challenges, planting techniques, and long-term maintenance strategies.”
Tree Selection
Cemeteries provide a unique opportunity to plant tree species that might be difficult to use elsewhere. Think of traditional weeping trees, climbing trees for children’s sections, fruit-bearing trees, or large, multi-stemmed specimen trees with strong character.
To bring clarity to these endless possibilities, Ebben Nurseries teamed up with Wille Landscape and Cemetery Architecture to create the book Trees in Cemeteries. In this publication, landscape architect Ada Wille and horticultural engineer Marko Mouwen combine a wealth of knowledge about symbolism, history, design, maintenance, and tree selection for cemeteries. You can preview a sample copy alongside this article.
“The success of any design largely depends on the long-term development of its trees. Cemeteries, unlike many other urban spaces, are not threatened by redevelopment. This allows trees to remain in place for their entire lifespan. That’s why it’s essential to draw tree crowns in their mature size during the design phase—avoiding future conflicts or overcrowding. These factors ultimately shape the tree selection process.”
