The  tradition of adorning the casket with fresh flowers is typically reserved for the closest family members, often the deceased’s children or those making the funeral arrangements. For that reason, it is recommended that you inquire with the family before ordering a gift of flowers for the casket. A floral arrangement designed to sit on top of the casket, or casket spray, is available in two types. A lid spray, also called a full-couch casket spray, extends the length of the casket, while a foot spray, or half-couch casket spray, is shorter and is intended to be used for a half-open casket service.
 

Even if a few weeks have passed since the death, flowers and plants are a comforting reminder that friends are still thinking of the family throughout the grieving process. In some cases, particularly in Jewish cultures, a fruit or gourmet basket is greatly appreciated by a family who is receiving out-of-town guests during the mourning period. This type of gift does double-duty, delivering your condolences while helping to care for and nurture family and friends. I’d like to send a gift that will last longer than flowers. While many of us think of flowers to express sympathy, plants are a perfectly lovely — and lasting — way to show you’re thinking of them.