Frequently Asked Questions

Burial at Morris Orchard

At Morris Orchard, burials are a heartfelt and grounding process. Loved ones are brought from our parking area to the gravesite using a traditional cemetery bier cart — a beautifully handcrafted oak and iron cart. This simple yet powerful ritual allows for a walking procession directly to the gravesite, or time spent gathering in our Woodland Sanctuary for a service, family circle, potluck, or whatever feels needed.

One of the deep gifts of Natural Burial is the way it invites us to slow down. It opens space for presence, grief, memory, and transition — away from rush, and toward meaning. Families may choose to co-create the burial with a funeral home, or bring their loved one directly to the land. Either way, the process honors the rhythms of nature and the bonds we hold sacred.

What is a green burial?

What is a green burial?

A green burial is a simple, environmentally friendly burial that allows the body to return naturally to the earth. It avoids embalming fluids, metal or lacquered caskets, and concrete vaults—focusing instead on biodegradable materials and minimal disturbance to the land. This helps protect soil health, water quality, and surrounding ecosystems.

How is it different from traditional burial?

How is it different from traditional burial?

Traditional burial often involves embalming chemicals, concrete vaults, and metal caskets that slow decomposition and harm ecosystems. Green burial prioritizes natural processes, restoring rather than disrupting local soil, water, and wildlife systems.

What is a natural burial ground?

What is a natural burial ground?

A natural burial ground is a conservation-style cemetery. Graves are often hand-dug, markers are natural stone, and the landscape is kept as close to wild or cultivated nature as possible. At Morris Orchard, for example, burials happen beneath nut trees, contributing to a living legacy.

Is Morris Orchard an officially recognized cemetery?

Is Morris Orchard an officially recognized cemetery?

Yes. Morris Orchard is certified by the State of Maryland’s Office of Cemetery Oversight under the Department of Labor. It is officially recorded as a cemetery in perpetuity, meaning it is protected from development and will always remain a burial ground.

What does “in perpetuity” mean?

What does “in perpetuity” mean?

Once a burial ground is certified in Maryland, it is permanently protected from any future type of development. This makes natural burial one of the most lasting and meaningful ways to preserve open space and protect natural landscapes.

How is the land maintained over time?

How is the land maintained over time?

Maryland law requires all new cemeteries to establish a perpetual care trust to which is added 10% of plot sales. This ensures that the land and burial sites are maintained indefinitely, without solely relying on future plot sales or donations.

Can more than one person be buried in a single grave?

Can more than one person be buried in a single grave?

No. We allow only one full-body burial per grave. We have smaller plots for cremated remains, as well.

Is Morris Orchard a working farm?

Is Morris Orchard a working farm?

While the orchard is abundant with chestnut and other nut trees, we do not operate commercially. Each fall, we host a volunteer nut harvest followed by our annual Memorial Chestnut Roast, typically held in mid to late October.

Can I visit the site before choosing a burial?

Can I visit the site before choosing a burial?

Absolutely. We encourage people to walk the land, connect with the space, and ask questions. We offer a monthly talk and tour. Please visit our Events page. 

What kinds of caskets or burial containers can be used?

What kinds of caskets or burial containers can be used?

Only biodegradable materials are allowed. Common options include simple wooden caskets, cardboard caskets, natural-fiber shrouds, or woven baskets. We’re happy to help you find the right option.

Can cremated remains be buried?

Can cremated remains be buried?

Yes. Cremated remains may be buried in biodegradable urns. While cremation has a larger environmental footprint than natural burial, it remains a meaningful and accepted option for many families.

How are graves marked?

How are graves marked?

We use natural flat stones and GPS coordinates to mark and record each burial site. The markers may be personalized, but we strive to maintain a natural and unobtrusive appearance across the landscape. The goal is to blend into the landscape rather than impose upon it. We maintain a map and log of all burials.

Will the burial disturb wildlife or the ecosystem?

Will the burial disturb wildlife or the ecosystem?

Not at all. Our burial practices are designed to support biodiversity and healthy soil. In fact, natural burial helps regenerate life and enhances the ecological integrity of the land.

Can I pre-plan my green burial?

Can I pre-plan my green burial?

Yes. Pre-planning ensures your wishes are honored and removes the burden from your loved ones. At Morris Orchard, we offer pre-need planning and welcome conversations at any stage of life.

Is this a religious practice?

Is this a religious practice?

Green burial is non-denominational and welcomes all beliefs and backgrounds. It's about reconnecting with the earth—something that resonates across many traditions.

Is it more affordable?

Is it more affordable?

Often, yes. Green burials tend to be less expensive than traditional burials, since they avoid embalming, vaults, and elaborate caskets. It’s simpler—and more meaningful—for many families.

Can I have a ceremony or service?

Can I have a ceremony or service?

Absolutely. Families are encouraged to create personal, meaningful rituals, whether it's a home vigil, a graveside ceremony, or a procession through the orchard. Joint planning between families, the Morris Orchard staff and funeral homes allows for customizing ceremonies for each burial. 

Can I visit the burial site?

Can I visit the burial site?

Yes. Families and friends of the Morris Orchard are always welcome to visit from dawn to dusk. Our orchard paths are open for walking, remembrance, and quiet reflection. This is a place of life and peace.

Morris Orchard Site Maintenance FAQ

 Individual graves are planted with appropriate ground covers based on light conditions. These plants are selected to be deer-resistant, low-maintenance, and visually appealing. Common choices include ferns, mountain mint, and other hardy perennials.

Gravesite Plantings:

The Morris Orchard is actively and thoughtfully maintained year-round to balance ecological health with accessibility.

General Site Maintenance:

Chestnut Grove

Meadow Areas

Including the New Orchard & Black Walnut Grove: These zones are intentionally managed as meadows, with periodic mowing to prevent the establishment of woody plants. They are allowed to flourish as a mix of native grasses and wild flowers, supporting biodiversity and pollinators.

Gravesite Access:

As burials occur, mowed pathways are maintained to allow easy and respectful access to gravesites.

Unused Plots:

 Burial plots without interments remain part of the living meadow until needed, contributing to the site's natural beauty.

 The entire site, including parking areas, access lanes, and graves, is regularly mowed to ensure ease of access and a clean appearance.

Our winding woodland trail is kept clear for walking or sitting at various meditative locations.

We have planted over 80 trees and shrubs along the entrance road to the Morris Orchard to help diversify the Orchard’s perennial plant selection and wildlife habitat.  

 This area is mowed once annually, typically in late September, just before the chestnut harvest.

What’s the difference in biodiversity between a natural meadow and a lawn?

What’s the difference in biodiversity between a natural meadow and a lawn?

A natural meadow supports high biodiversity, often containing dozens or even hundreds of species of grasses, wildflowers, insects, birds, and small mammals. Its varied plant life and seasonal changes create rich habitats for wildlife.

In contrast, a conventional cemetery lawn is usually made up of just one or a few types of grasses, kept short with mowing and often treated with chemicals. This results in very low biodiversity, offering little habitat or food for pollinators and other wildlife.

In short, at Morris Orchard we are big on diversity! 

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