Green Mount Cemetery, established in 1855, was a place where families used to clear their lots with scythes to enjoy a nice picnic. Back in the day, lawn mowers weren’t even a thing, so the grass was left to grow wild and free. Fast forward to the 1950s, and boom, lawn mowers were invented, changing the game completely. Now, mowing the grass became the norm for everyone who owned a lot in the cemetery.
As technology advanced and mowers became more common, the grass at Green Mount Cemetery started to get trimmed regularly. However, with climate change and environmental issues on the rise, bird species and pollinators began to decline. That’s when the folks at the cemetery decided to let more wildflowers grow to create a habitat for butterflies, insects, and birds, which are essential for maintaining the balance of our ecosystems.
Now, the mowing schedule at Green Mount includes a rest period in May to allow the grass and wildflowers to flourish for a few weeks. This gives pollinators the chance to do their thing and help fertilize the plants. The newer sections of the cemetery will be mowed every other week starting in late May or early June, while the older sections will have their pathways and edges trimmed regularly for comfortable walking. The grass areas in the older section won’t be mowed until mid-July to August, giving nature a chance to thrive.
Barbara Smith, a Montpelier Cemetery Commissioner, encourages visitors to enjoy the beauty of Green Mount Cemetery as a park for strolling, observing wildlife, and exploring history through its 4,000-plus memorials. So, next time you’re in the area, take a leisurely walk through the cemetery and appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds you.
