Recycled tech is helping roses bloom at SMCT

The device you're using right now, and even the shoes on your feet, could one day help nurture one of the 35,000 roses growing across the gardens of the Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust (SMCT). By repurposing discarded materials, SMCT reduces landfill waste and supports the sustainable growth of its rose cremation memorials. Read more about our sustainability practices and environmental strategy.

Why roses need support

In the lead-up to spring, young rose plants are carefully tied to stakes to guide their growth. Behind the scenes, SMCT’s horticulture team undertakes months of planning and preparation to ensure a spectacular seasonal display across its memorial gardens.

“Keeping the roses healthy and tidy requires a lot of materials,” said Rolfe Stok, SMCT’s Head Rosarian. With over 31 years of experience caring for roses, Rolfe has seen many changes in gardening techniques and materials.

Each rose requires a stake and several plant ties. Over time, these materials wear out and need replacing, which presents both environmental and operational challenges.

A sustainable shift in rose staking

Traditionally, rose stakes are made from hardwood or softwood timber. These often need replacing every two years due to exposure to the elements. In response, SMCT began phasing out timber stakes in favour of recycled plastic stakes made from old computers and printers.

Since 2011, SMCT has introduced 2,000 recycled stakes each year, diverting approximately 3,840 kg of waste from landfill annually.

“We recently found an even more durable alternative from a South Australian company that uses high-quality adhesives,” Rolfe explained. “These stakes last longer and withstand more pressure. This helps us support sustainable gardening while backing local industry.”

Today, 65 to 70 percent of SMCT’s rose stakes are made from recycled plastic, with a goal to fully replace timber stakes in the near future.

Recycled shoes help roses grow

It’s not just the stakes that matter. Roses also need to be tied securely to grow upright. Traditionally, plant ties are made from PVC, which is firm and needs frequent replacement.

To improve sustainability, SMCT now uses stretchable ties made from recycled shoe components. These ties retract and hold fast, expanding as the rose grows. They can last up to 25 years, significantly reducing waste and labour.

“Replacing 18,000 ties every few years would be a nightmare for us and the environment,” Rolfe said. “These recycled ties make the process much more sustainable and easier to manage.”

Supporting local and the planet

SMCT sources its recycled stakes from APR Composites in South AustraliaExternal site and its plant ties from Premier Extrusions in Campbellfield, VictoriaExternal site. This approach supports local Australian businesses and contributes to environmental sustainability in memorial gardening. Learn more about recycling in Australia.External site

A rosy future for cremation memorials

SMCT’s rose gardens are more than just beautiful. They are a symbol of remembrance, care, and environmental responsibility. By using recycled materials in its cremation memorials, SMCT helps families honour loved ones in a way that also honours the planet. Learn more about our rose cremation memorials or explore all our memorial gardens across Melbourne.