Belgium: Cemeteries get 'watering can trees' to simplify grave maintenance

Cemeteries in Kasterlee, Lichtaart, and Tielen are now equipped with "watering can trees," a novel initiative by the Kasterlee municipality to assist visitors in maintaining graves. These installations, placed near water points, provide readily available watering cans, eliminating the need for people to bring their own tools.

"People can take a watering can from the rack, fill it at the water point, and thus tend to the grave of their loved one or water the flowers. Afterwards, they simply hang the watering can back on the watering can tree. It's that simple," explained Guy Van de Perre, the alderman for Cemeteries. He believes this service offers a convenient solution for residents.

The initiative also aims to address the issue of litter. "We hope that this will prevent people from leaving bottles behind," Van de Perre stated. He noted that visitors sometimes complain about scattered bottles, which detract from the cemeteries' appearance. By providing a communal resource, the municipality hopes to reduce the amount of plastic waste left behind.

Kasterlee is relying on the goodwill of its residents to ensure the watering cans are returned after use. Unlike some other locations that use coin-operated systems similar to shopping carts to prevent theft, Kasterlee has opted against this, deeming it more costly. "We are counting on the kindness of our residents," Van de Perre said.