Can You Add a Vase or Flower Holder to a Headstone Later?
Honoring Loved Ones with Flowers—Even Years Later
For many families, bringing flowers to a gravesite is a comforting tradition. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a quiet visit, a vase or flower holder offers a dignified way to keep that tradition alive.
But what if the headstone wasn’t originally designed with a vase? Can you add a vase or flower holder to a headstone after it’s been installed? The answer is yes—and in Central Utah, this is a common request handled by skilled monument professionals.
In this article, we’ll explain how flower holders can be added later, the types of vases available, installation methods, costs, and how to ensure your cemetery permits the addition.
Why Families Add a Vase After Installation
There are many reasons families choose to add a vase later:
Changing preferences: A simple headstone may have been chosen at the time of burial, but later, loved ones wish to enhance it.
Budget flexibility: Families may add decorative or functional elements over time as finances allow.
New traditions: Bringing flowers becomes more meaningful over time, especially on important anniversaries.
Matching nearby stones: To create a cohesive look when a spouse or other family member is later buried nearby.
Yes—You Can Add a Vase Later
Most granite and bronze headstones can be retrofitted with a vase or flower holder, either mounted to the surface or set in the base or ground.
However, it’s important to work with a professional monument company to ensure:
The vase matches the design and material of the stone
Installation is done safely and securely
The cemetery’s regulations are followed
Vase Types That Can Be Added Later
When adding a vase to an existing headstone, you typically have three main options depending on the stone type and space available:
🔹 1. Granite Vases
These are crafted from solid granite to match or complement the monument.
Placement: Usually installed on the sides of upright monuments or attached to a base.
Benefits: Heavy, stable, and naturally durable.
Styles: Round, square, or column styles available in various granite colors.
🔹 2. Bronze Vases
Often paired with flat bronze markers or companion monuments.
Placement: Can be surface-mounted or recessed into the base with a hidden canister.
Features: Many include reversible vase designs—they can be turned upside down and stored inside the marker when not in use.
Durability: Long-lasting and weather-resistant.
🔹 3. Removable or Stake-In Vases
Ideal for cemeteries with strict rules or for temporary/seasonal use.
Materials: Plastic, resin, or metal.
Placement: Stakes directly into the ground next to the headstone.
Best for: Families who want to avoid permanent changes to the stone.
Key Considerations Before Adding a Vase
Before making any changes, be sure to review these key points:
✅ Check Cemetery Regulations
Some cemeteries in Utah have strict guidelines about flower holders:
Are surface-mounted vases allowed?
Do they require flush-mounted or retractable designs?
Are there size or color restrictions?
👉 Contact the cemetery office or ask your monument company to help navigate the rules.
✅ Space and Structure
Is there room on the stone or base for a vase? A professional will check:
The thickness and strength of the granite
Whether the foundation can support added weight
If a matching vase is available for the monument color
✅ Aesthetic and Style Matching
Adding a vase later should complement—not distract from—the original design.
Ask your monument specialist to:
Match granite type or finish
Choose complementary shapes and engravings
Ensure symmetrical placement if adding to a double monument
Installation Methods
There are two main ways to install a vase on an existing headstone:
🔧 Surface Mounting
Vase is attached to the stone using epoxy and pins or drilled mounting.
Ideal for upright monuments or thick granite bases.
Typically completed on-site by monument professionals.
🧱 Recessed or In-Ground Installation
A bronze or granite canister is set into a concrete core next to the marker.
Often allows the vase to be retractable or hidden when not in use.
More labor-intensive but creates a clean, flush look.
Cost to Add a Flower Holder or Vase Later
Adding a vase to an existing monument can vary based on material and labor. Here’s a general guide:
Type Estimated Cost Granite Vase (installed) $250 – $450 Bronze Vase (surface-mount) $300 – $600 In-Ground Retractable Vase $400 – $800 Stake-In or Removable Vase $50 – $150
💡 Tip: Ask about bundle options when preparing for a second inscription, cleaning, or other upgrades to save on travel and service fees.
Bullet Points: Quick Facts About Adding Vases
✅ Vases can be added to most existing headstones—even years later.
📍 Check with the cemetery before adding any new element.
🪦 Choose from granite, bronze, or stake-in vases.
🛠️ Installation can be surface-mounted or in-ground recessed.
🎨 Work with a monument company to match color and design.
💐 A vase adds beauty, convenience, and a lasting floral tribute space.
Real Stories from Central Utah Families
At Richfield Monuments, we’ve helped many families in Sevier, Sanpete, and Piute counties enhance existing headstones with meaningful vases—even decades after burial.
One family in Monroe added twin granite vases to their parents’ upright headstone for a 30th wedding anniversary memorial. Another in Salina installed a bronze retractable vase next to a flat marker, allowing grandchildren to bring seasonal flowers every year.
No matter the age of the headstone, there’s usually a way to add a personal floral element with lasting value.
Final Thoughts: It’s Never Too Late to Add Beauty
If you’ve been wondering whether it’s possible to add a vase or flower holder after the headstone has been installed—the answer is yes, and it’s easier than you might think.
Adding a flower vase is a simple yet powerful way to turn every visit into an opportunity for connection, beauty, and remembrance.
Ready to Add a Vase to an Existing Monument?
At Richfield Monuments, we specialize in custom enhancements to existing grave markers and headstones. Whether you need a granite vase, retractable flower holder, or consultation with your cemetery, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
📞 Contact us today for a free estimate or site visit.
